How to Choose the Right Self Tan Shade for Your Skin Tone

Finding Your Perfect Shade Doesn't Have to Be Guesswork

One of the biggest reasons people avoid self tanning is the fear of choosing the wrong shade. Too light and it barely shows up. Too dark and you end up looking like a different person. But finding your perfect match is actually simpler than you think.

Understanding Self Tan Shades

Self tanners work by reacting with amino acids in your skin's surface layer. The depth of colour depends on two things: the DHA concentration in the formula, and your natural skin tone. Australian Glow offers four shade levels, each designed for a specific result.

Medium — The Natural Glow

Best for: Fair to light-medium skin tones, or anyone who wants a subtle sun-kissed look. Our Express Mousse in Medium gives you a golden warmth without any dramatic colour shift. It's the go-to for first-time tanners or anyone who prefers a "did she just come back from holiday?" vibe.

Dark — The Classic Bronze

Best for: Light-medium to medium skin tones, or fair skin that wants a more noticeable tan. The Dark shade is our bestseller for a reason — it delivers a rich, warm bronze that looks like you've spent a week in Byron Bay. No orange undertones, just pure golden brown.

Ultra Dark — Maximum Impact

Best for: Medium to olive skin tones, or experienced tanners who want depth. Ultra Dark builds a deep, luxurious colour that rivals a real tropical tan. If you love being the most bronzed person in the room, this is your shade.

Platinum — The Deepest Tan Possible

Best for: Olive to deep skin tones, or anyone who wants the absolute maximum colour. Platinum is our most concentrated formula, delivering an ultra-rich, deep bronze that lasts up to 10 days. It's for the self-tan obsessed.

Pro Tips for Shade Selection

If you're between shades, always start lighter — you can build up with a second application. For your face, consider going one shade lighter than your body for the most natural effect. And remember: proper exfoliation before application makes every shade look better, because the DHA develops on smooth, even skin.

The Australian Glow Difference

Unlike many US drugstore brands, Australian Glow's formulas are designed to develop without any orange or yellow undertones. Our naturally-derived DHA and botanical base means every shade dries down to a true, warm brown — the kind of tan you'd actually get from the Australian sun.