The enhanced tan sun cream I can't get enough of

Vichy's Solar Protective Water SPF with beta-carotene enhanced tan will help boost your tan, and is our summer must have.  (Getty Images)
Vichy's Solar Protective Water SPF with beta-carotene enhanced tan will help boost your tan, and is our summer must have. (Getty Images)

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Whether you are enjoying a staycation, making the most of the warmer weather in your garden, or jetting abroad, there is always one very important item to pack - sun cream.

Some may tan with ease as soon as the sun is out, while others may find it slightly more difficult to achieve that sun-kissed glow they desire.

There is one beauty buy that has absolutely changed my sunbathing game forever - Vichy’s Ideal Soleil Protective Water SPF with beta-carotene.

Initially I was sceptical about using a product that claims to enhance the tan having never used any tan enhancers before.

Firstly, I questioned if it would leave my skin looking orange, or any streaks similar to some fake tans, and - most importantly - if it would provide any protection.

But after a couple of weeks of use, I’m a tan-enhancer convert.

Why we rate the product

Most importantly Vichy’s Solar Water SPF 30 provides UVA and UVB protection needed to protect your skin against sun damage.

The product also contains Beta Carotene, which helps to enhance your tan - and no, that doesn’t mean it dyes your skin with an orange tint as I naively thought, but does in fact work to promote healthy skin and boost your natural tan.

I have sensitive skin, and always look for products that are hypoallergenic, which means it is unlikely to cause any allergic reactions, and the Vichy sun protection also ticks that box.

It is a lightweight and non-greasy formula, which feels very hydrating when applied to the skin, and doesn’t leave any unwanted white marks like other sun creams.

Although I tan easily, after using it over the last few weeks during the UK’s heatwave, it provided the necessary protection, I didn’t burn and, I must say, I am looking more bronzed than normal.

I have also received a number of complements for how “well” I look, which I can only put down to Vichy’s solar water with beta carotene, and now friends and family are hot after the product too.

Vichy has also released a new solar water to enhance your tan with SPF 50, which has been hugely popular and sold out online in a number of stockists, including Superdrug, lookfantastic, Feelunique, and Boots after launching in April 2020.

How the product works

It is super simple to apply, although it does need a good shake before applying as the solution appears to separate at first.

All you have to do is spray over the body and rub in as you would a moisturiser or other sun protection.

If you want to use Vichy’s Ideal Soleil Solar Protective Water on the face, it is recommended to spray on your hands first and then rub in.

What the product reviews say

We are not the only ones who are fans of Vichy’s Protective Water, as customers have rated it very highly too.

  • “Best SPF Sun tan lotion yet! I have tried a whole range of different products over the years but this is by far the best. It really does disappear into the skin, my skin often has outbreaks due to oily lotions but nothing with this. Really is a fantastic buy.”

  • “Lovely texture, light absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave any residue. Also doesn’t smell like sunscreen which I see as a big plus. Definitely recommend!”

  • “Really great product, gives a nice sheen to skin and great protection from the sun.”

Buy it: Vichy Idéal Soleil Solar Protective Water SPF30 Enhanced Tan 200ml | £19 from Feelunique