The best fake tans are the beauty equivalent of smoke and mirrors. A few swipes and you’ve gone from grey and wintry to sun-drenched and confident. Skin looks healthier, and frankly, you just feel a bit more attractive. Enter By Terry Tea to Tan, the product I now can’t imagine my summer (or winter for that matter) without.
What is it?
A hydrating and bronzing skincare mist with a natural matte finish.
What Do I Think?
The problem I have with fake tans is that most instant tans are either messy, streaky, or too dark for anyone who isn’t already halfway to bronzed. As someone with fair skin, I’ve spent years shying away from most of them. I want believable, not the potential to be the next cast member of The Only Way is Essex. Gradual tanners can do the trick, but they’re faffy, slow, and sometimes I want results immediately.
By Terry Tea to Tan is a tinted water for face and body. It’s long been a cult product for a reason and I wish I’d discovered it sooner. A couple of spritzes and blend, and my arms and face went from milk-bottle to Mediterranean in under a minute. There was no streaks, no tackiness, no drying time.
The formula is laced with black and red tea extracts for antioxidant benefits, and cherry essence for a hit of vitamins (and a faintly fruity scent). On the face, it works beautifully when sprayed on and blended with a brush for a soft veil of colour. And importantly, the finish is matte, not shimmery, which makes it look all the more convincing on pale skin.
It’s not one for the ultra-dark-tan crowd. This is subtle, chic, and designed to make you look well. The colour holds up all day without transferring, then slips away easily in the shower. In other words, it’s the low-maintenance, tan I’ve been searching for.
It also looks extremely natural, thanks to it’s slightly red undertone.


Would I recommend?
If you’re pale, impatient, and want a quick fix, Tea to Tan is the answer. This is for those of us who worry about applying gradual tans and getting it to blend seamlessly. It’s workable, rinses off and gets the job done.
Brands Product Description
Hydrating and bronzing skincare mist. Natural matte finish. 24h of hydration. 97% naturally-derived ingredients, clean and vegan formula. Long-lasting. Suitable for all skin types. This transfer-proof formula tints the skin without tanning agents and is easy to remove with water! An iconic BY TERRY product, the TEA to TAN FACE & BODY spray is a unique fusion of skincare and bronzing perfection to hydrate and protect the skin with a natural sun-kissed glow. Like a tea infusion, its water-based formula gives the skin a long-lasting tint, without coverage. The lightweight, fresh texture quickly dries on skin for easy, even application without coverage nor transfer. Enhancing the sensory journey, a captivating fragrance accompanies each use, beckoning you on a delightful voyage.
Key Ingredients
- Bio Active Cherry Essence – bursting with vitamins and nutrients, it revitalizes tired skin and restores its natural glow.
- Black Tea Complex – antioxidant-rich properties to protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote a youthful complexion.
- Red Tea Complex – smoothing and rejuvenating qualities to leave the skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.


How I Use It
I apply after my serums, moisturiser and sunscreen using a brush. I apply to the highpoints (cheeks, forehead and nose) for a natural sun-kissed look.
Would I Repurchase/Buy?
Yes. It’s extremely easy to use, and I love how it looks on my skin.
How Much?
£25 for 30ml
£59 for 100ml