MissLJBeauty

Right, if you are following my tanning journey, you will know I am trying to find the best fake tan on the market. I have, over the years, spent hundreds of pounds trying to achieve the perfect just back form just-back-from-holidays glow, and I am not going to stop. We all know that tanning in the sun is super harmful, so faking that glow is the way forward. I mean, who wants to age quicker and have a higher risk of skin cancer, not me, that's who. Get that fake tan out and SPF on. Let's protect our skin and self tan. 

If you’re like me and want a low-effort, no-drama glow that doesn’t streak or make you smell like digestive biscuit, you’ve probably tried a few gradual tanners over the years. 

Today, I’m reviewing Garnier Summer Body Gradual Tan Lotion because spoiler: it might be the easiest way to get that natural-looking, sun-kissed glow without baking in the sun or battling with an instant tan disaster. I used to use this gradual tan years ago and I can't remember what made me stop. Do you ever do that or just me? So let me tell you about this product. I bought the darker version called deep sunkissed glow (That's a mouthful) from Amazon, which was on sale for £6. 

I should mention I am very hard to please, as I am trained and qualified in fake tanning.

Garnier Summer Body Gradual Tan Lotion

This Garnier gradual tan promises two things I’m always after: hydration and a believable glow. I’ve used this one again for a few weeks to really test it out: You know me I want to put it through the wringer so you get an honest, unbiased review. I want to know how it applies, how it wears, and whether it plays nicely with sensitive skin.

What Makes Garnier Summer Body Stand Out from Other Tanning Products?

It’s simple, really. It smells good (like, actually fruity, not biscuit-y), it doesn’t leave streaks when applied right, and it moisturises like a proper body lotion. It comes out as a white moisturiser. It's not thin and not thick either, so it’s easy to blend without worrying about orange patches developing mid-day. It is also super affordable and on the cheaper end of the fake tanning price range. I love the Molly Mae one I use, but it is pricey in comparison. 

How Does This Tan Lotion Work?

This is a gradual self-tan, meaning the colour builds up over a couple of days. You won’t wake up with a deep sun-kissed look after one application, but that’s the point.  After one day, I look like I have spent the day in the sun with a light dusting of colour. But it gives you a natural-looking tan that’s hard to mess up. Ideal for fair skin or tan beginners. It really is hard to mess up, which is awesome. 

What Ingredients Contribute to the Glow?

You know I love reading ingredients. Yes, I am that person. The stand-out here is apricot extract, which not only gives it that fruity scent but also helps leave the skin soft and nourished. There’s also camomile, which soothes, and it’s free of harsh alcohols, making it friendly to sensitive skin types.

Is It Suitable for Sensitive Skin?

I’ve got areas that get dry and irritated fast (looking at you, elbows and knees), but this one didn’t cause any flare-ups. It’s gentle enough to use daily if needed, especially if you usually react to regular fake tan or instant tanners. But please always patch test any new product just because I don't react doesn't mean you won't.. 

How to Effectively Use Garnier Summer Body for Best Results?

The trick to any good gradual tanner is in the prep and being consistent. Here's my routine.

• Exfoliate your skin with a good scrub or brush, 
• Do not apply other moisturisers
• I use my hands to apply this all over my body but you can use a tanning mit
• Use circular motions 
• use spareingly on knees elbow and feet
• Remember to wash your hands after

Do not use any oil-based moisturisers or body washes these will break down your tan and make it patchy. 

Tips for Applying the Lotion Evenly

Use a tanning mitt if you're worried about staining your hands but honestly, this is one you can get away with rubbing in using your hands (just wash them after!). Apply in circular motions and don’t overdo it a little goes a long way.

When to Reapply for a Continuous Natural Looking Tan?

I apply every other day to build and maintain the colour. It takes about 12 hours for the colour to develop fully, so I like to apply it before bed and it's developed by the morning. 

Does the Summer Body Lotion Provide Moisture?

Yes, and then some. It’s not just a gradual tanner, it’s a full-on moisturising lotion. If you’ve got pale skin that dries out easily, this is a win. It leaves skin soft and doesn’t rub off on your bed sheets. Its so hydrating and your skin looks tanned and plumped with moisture. 

How Does It Compare to Other Moisturisers?

Compared to regular body lotions like Palmer’s or Dove, Garnier gives a bonus tan while still keeping the skin hydrated. It’s not as rich as a body butter, but perfect for daily use.

Can It Replace My Daily Moisturising Lotion?

Yes. For summer, this is my go-to. It saves time, smells lovely, and gives me that sun-kissed glow without any fuss. But still wear spf! 

Is the Tanner Streak-Free and Easy to Maintain?

If applied properly, yes. But no gradual tanner is totally foolproof. but if you practice with your application and be consistent you will get the hang of the prep and it will become second nature. 

How to Avoid Streaks?

• Exfoliate first

• Go light on dry areas

• Apply in natural light

• Don’t rush

• Let it dry before dressing. 

How to Manage Potential Uneven Areas?

If you do end up with a patch, gently exfoliate and reapply in that area. Or use a damp cloth with a little lemon juice to fade the spot naturally. Or use an oil-based product, like I explained would deteriorate your tan faster.  I recommend a good moisturiser like Embryolisse lait-crème on dry areas to help the day before you tan. 

How Does the Summer Body Moisturising Lotion Feel on the Skin?

It’s light, absorbs quickly, and leaves no stickiness. Great for daytime wear or before bed. Doesn't leave your skin shiny, just soft and glowy. I have never experienced any stickiness it just feels like you have put a nice body cream on.

How Much Does It Cost?

It’s usually around £6–£8, RRP is £12, but it depends on where you buy it. I’ve grabbed mine from Amazon, Boots, Superdrug, and even the supermarket. You can often find it on sale too, making it one of the most affordable self-tan options out there.

My Review

Would I recommend Garnier Summer Body Gradual Tan Lotion? 100% yes. It’s easy to apply, moisturises well, and gives a natural, streak-free tan that builds beautifully over a few days. I can't for the life of me think why I stopped using this. I am not sure if in the years since I last used it it has been redeveloped, but it gives me so much nostalgia to use this. 

If you’re after a sun-kissed look without the drama of traditional fake tan, this is a brilliant budget-friendly option. Especially great for fair skin, pale skin, and anyone like me with sensitive skin who wants a subtle glow that looks and feels natural. It's such a great and cost-effective way to get the perfect summer bronzed without paying the price for it. Garnier Summer Body Moisturising Lotion is the best buildable tan in the budget category I have found, and bonus points for the lack of fake tan smell. I like the smell, the bronzed look and the moisture it gives my skin. This is a summer winner for me for sure.