The latest self-tanning formulas to try

Self-tanner was a beauty innovation all in itself, but long gone are the days of oompa-loompa color and stinking to high heaven. Mousses, sprays and lotions have become the go-to formulations, but there’s a bevy of new ways to get your glow on—and of course bronzing phenom James Read is behind them.

This time of year, there’s nothing more refreshing than a facial mist, and with the new H2O Illuminating Tan Mist you get a gradual golden glow along with instant radiance courtesy of little flecks of 24K gold. With a soothing, hydrating rosewater base, this quick-dry spray lets you build up bronze color over a few days for subtle results. And it also has caffeine to help flush out excess fluid, in turn making cellulite appear smoother.

For those who want to get their glow on without the wait, James Read’s Express Glow Body Mask makes it happen in just 30 minutes. Formulated with moisture-rich jojoba seed oil, soothing aloe vera and anti-aging algae, you’ll get even darker color if you leave it on for 60 minutes. (Yes, you apply this tanner, hang out for a bit and wash it off.)

And last, but certainly not least, you can fix dry, pale skin in a flash with the Coconut Melting Tanning Balm. This rich, balm-to-oil delivers gradual color, major hydration and a super-sexy sheen, which means you can apply it before a night on the town and wake up with sun-kissed color.

These are just three of my top picks—and there’s plenty more to swoon over. Whether you want to tan your face or body, by day or by night, there’s definitely a James Read self-tanner that’s perfect for you!