price: $13 at Ulta

type: a dark foamy self tanning mousse with color guide

product call-outs: cruelty-free

key ingredients: olive milk to allow the tan to absorb into the skin quickly and vitamin E to protect the skin from free radicals

texture: a lightweight foamy mousse

dry time: within five minutes

scent: a clean, fresh linen-like scent

(hot) take on the tan: St. Moriz’s Dark Instant Self Tanning Mousse is a great, affordable option for beginners who want great color from a product to test out for a few days. The tanner delivers a rich, mocha shade that develops evenly and lasts for around three days. I would advise users to apply a very nourishing, hydrating moisturizer when maintaining the tan as it’s a bit drying.

how we applied: On clean, dry skin I swiped two layers of the tanning mousse on each body part. I saved the hands and feet for last and used a lotion as a barrier cream on the palms of my hands, bottoms of my feet, elbows, and ankles. Then, I used a kabuki brush to apply a light layer to the tops of my hands and feet, making sure to get all creases. I slept in the solution so it developed for about nine hours. The color after the first initial rinse was a beautiful, deep mocha shade.

brand background: UK-based St. Moriz launched in 2008 on the foundation of delivering salon-grade quality for affordable prices. Fast forward 12 years and the brand has stayed true to that mission and then some, as it’s currently sold at over 20 retailers, in 21 different countries, with all products under $20.