I Tried Boots' £16 Self-Tanning Oil and Got a Sun-Kissed Glow Without the Smell
Boots £16 Self-Tanning Oil: Sun-Kissed Glow, No Smell

Protecting my skin from the sun's rays is really important to me. I wear an SPF every day regardless of the season or the weather. But I do like the look of a healthy glow, so when I heard about a self tanning system that didn't have an overpowering smell or leave the skin with an orange tinge, I was keen to try it out for myself.

Skinny Tan has rebranded as Skin & Tan and has a large range of bestselling products on Amazon and Boots. I tried the Skin & Tan Tan & Tone Self Tanning Oil and found it was a lovely light formula which sinks nicely into the skin, so you can put it on before bed or even in the morning under your make-up. It is currently on offer at Boots, down from £23.99 to £15.99, an £8 saving.

Streak-Free and Odorless Application

It goes on streak-free, and a quick hand wash afterwards ensures there is no telling residue on the palms. What is nice are the additional benefits of this product, as it is said to be hydrating and firming too. It certainly felt that way. Best of all, there is no need to rinse, so you can just apply it and go. As there is no smell, you can literally forget about it and leave the product to perform its magic.

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For me, it took a couple of applications over two days to start to see a glow appearing. I then just topped it up a couple of days later to keep it going. I loved the fact it was not sticky and it sank into my skin so well rather than leaving a layer I could feel.

Other Products in the Range

Other products in the range include Skin & Tan Body Glow Moisturising Gradual Tan Lotion, which is on offer at Amazon. Normally £12.99, it is down to just £10 for 280ml. It has a coconut and vanilla fragrance. Superdrug has a Skin & Tan Self-Tanning Mousse which costs £24.99 for 150ml but is on offer for just £16.99 for members. This is a one-hour express formula.

Shopper Reviews

The Skin & Tan Self Tanning Oil gets a good rating from Boots shoppers. One said: "Golden brown no streaks-simple application - hassle free!" However, one was disappointed: "Bought this at the weekend and tried it twice since and it is a waste of money - annoying! It dries far too quickly so streaks. I've thrown it in the bin. I'm now searching through reviews for a better product." I personally liked the fact that it dried quickly and I did not find it streaky. Meanwhile, an Amazon shopper said: "Lovely light glow, no overpowering smell and no orange tone. Just a lovely sun-kissed glow."

Product Description from Boots

Boots describes the Skin & Tan Self Tanning Oil as follows: "Our best-selling, fan-favourite Tan & Tone Oil offers an effortless way to achieve a streak-free, natural-looking tan – while delivering premium skin care benefits. Infused with Poppyseed Extract and Blackberry Juice, this luxurious oil enhances skin elasticity and firmness, refining both texture and appearance. It effectively blurs the look of uneven skin tone while delivering deep, long-lasting hydration for instantly healthier-looking skin. The lightweight, silky formula glides smoothly into the skin, providing an instant glow. No rinsing is required; simply apply, dress, and let your tan develop into a lasting, natural colour. Perfect for new and nervous tanners, it is great for layering or extending your colour. Thanks to our long-lasting formula, you can enjoy your gorgeous results for up to two weeks."

Disclaimer: This item was gifted by Skin & Tan, however all opinions expressed in this review are held by the writer.

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