This is a case of high expectations and disappointing results.
After following the launch of the James Read Sleep Mask Tan on Twitter, I really wanted to love it. Even just ‘like’ it. But sadly it wasn’t so.
In order to be fair, the first description is from the James Read website:
Sleep Mask Tan combines skin beautifying ingredients with a touch of self-tan. The luxurious yet lightweight formula is infused with skincare essentials including Aloe Vera, Cucumber, Hyaluronic Acid and Red Algae to moisturise and soothe the skin overnight. The self-tan ingredients guarantee a subtle golden glow by morning. Smooth over the face and neck, blending as you go.
Ok, so, it is a sleep mask tan? I just don’t get this whole concept after using it. Fake tan is applied at night to develop while you sleep, no? And a lot of the organic fake tans are full of goodness like aloe vera. So, my point is, I’m not quite sure why it is referred to as a sleep mask. After using it I would much rather use an actual face tanner and an equally good night cream.
Secondly, the consistency was all wrong for my skin. The gel liquid felt too heavy even though I only applied a very small amount, as the directions stated. It did blend well, however, and there wasn’t an unpleasant biscuity smell like a lot of tanners out there.
The colour too. Oh, that lack of tan. I have quite dark skin naturally so I can’t be too harsh here and in actual fact, there is only a small amount of tan in the product. But it just done nothing for my face. No hint of a beautiful glow that other reviewers have mentioned and definitely not a sun kissed look.
It pains me to write this review as I had such high hopes for it. I will reserve judgement, however, on the other James Read products and will try the bronzing mousse, at some point.
In the meantime, I think it is back to my trusty Vita Liberata.