Comparing the Best Self-Tanners: Bondi Sands Vs St. Tropez

bondi sands comparison

Choosing between world-renowned self-tanning brands, Bondi Sands and St. Tropez can be quite a dilemma.

As a serial tanner myself, I understand the struggle all too well. In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to dissect both brands – from scent to longevity and price point – based on intense research and hands-on experience to help you make an informed decision.

Get ready for some golden insights!

Image Recommended ProductsProduct Features Price
Natural Looking Glow
Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam
  • 200ml Foam Formula
  • Lightweight and Quick Absorbing
  • Coconut Scented
Rich, Dark Tan
St.Tropez Classic Self Tanner Bronzer Mousse
  • 240ml Mousse Formula
  • Non Sticky and Hydrating
  • No Self Tan Smell

Comparing Bondi Sands and St. Tropez Self-Tanners

When it comes to self-tanners, Bondi Sands and St. Tropez are two popular brands that often go head-to-head in the market.

Scent and fragrance

Bondi Sands prides itself on its signature coconut fragrance, a sensory delight that transports you straight to the beaches of Australia. It’s a standout feature from many self-tanners, including St.

Tropez which lacks this tropical scent appeal. But let’s not dismiss St.Tropez just yet! While it doesn’t boast an exotic aroma, it does offer a relatively neutral scent in comparison to other self-tanning products out there – steering clear of the so-called ‘biscuity smell’ often associated with fake tans.

However, Bondi Sands goes one step further with its creamy cocoa butter fragrance that leaves users smelling as good as they look.

Application and texture

When it comes to self-tanners, application, and texture play a crucial role in achieving that flawless, sun-kissed glow. Bondi Sands and St. Tropez both offer products with different consistencies.

Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam is lightweight and airy, making it easy to apply evenly onto the skin without feeling sticky or heavy. The foam effortlessly glides on, allowing you to see where you’ve applied it for streak-free results.

On the other hand, St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse has a slightly thicker consistency that can feel more substantial during application. While some people prefer this texture as it provides a sense of control, others may find it takes longer to blend into the skin seamlessly.

Color payoff and natural-looking results

One of the most important factors to consider when comparing self-tanners is the color payoff and how natural-looking the results are. Both Bondi Sands and St. Tropez excel in this area, providing users with a beautiful sun-kissed glow without looking orange or streaky.

Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam, for example, is highly recommended by customers and experts alike for its ability to deliver a natural and even tan. On the other hand, St. Tropez’s self-tanner also provides a gorgeous color that is buildable depending on your desired level of tan.

So whether you choose Bondi Sands or St. Tropez, you can expect impressive color payoff and results that will have everyone thinking you just spent a week at the beach!

Longevity and fading

One important factor to consider when comparing self-tanners is their longevity and how they fade over time. Both Bondi Sands and St. Tropez have impressive staying power, with the tan typically lasting for several days before starting to fade.

However, some users have reported that Bondi Sands tends to fade more evenly without any patchiness, while the color of St. Tropez can appear slightly blotchy as it wears off. This means that if you’re looking for a self-tanner that maintains its color for a longer period of time with minimal fading issues, Bondi Sands may be the better choice for you in terms of longevity and fading.

(Note: It’s important to remember that individual results may vary based on factors such as skin type, application technique, and aftercare.)

Price point and value for money

When it comes to comparing the price point and value for money of Bondi Sands and St. Tropez self-tanners, there is a clear winner. Bondi Sands offers high-quality self-tanning products at half the price of St.Tropez making it a more affordable option without compromising on quality. 

So if you’re looking for a self-tanner that not only delivers natural-looking results but also gives you great value for your money, Bondi Sands is definitely the brand to go for.

Putting Bondi Sands and St Tropez Head to Head

Test 1: Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam: 

I kicked off my self-tan comparison with Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam. The foam had a smooth texture and was a breeze to apply. It glided effortlessly onto my skin, and soaked in pretty quickly!

I applied the tan in the evening, leaving it overnight to develop before showering off the excess in the morning. There wasn’t any tan residue on my bed sheets, but a little on my designated self-tan pjs!

Throughout the week, I noticed that Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam provided a natural-looking tan. The color was a lovely golden hue that didn’t appear too orange or streaky. 

The tan lasted reasonably well, with minimal fading and only slight patchiness towards the end of the week.

Test 2: St. Tropez Tanning Mousse: 

Moving on to St. Tropez Tanning Mousse. The mousse had a lightweight consistency and spread easily on my skin. Like the Bondi Sands foam, I applied before bed and let it develop overnight, it’s worth noting that there was definitely a bit more transfer.

I was impressed by St. Tropez Tanning Mousse’s deep and rich tan. The color was bold and provided an instant, noticeable difference. Throughout the week, the tan held up exceptionally well, showing minimal signs of fading or patchiness until the very end of the week. It maintained its vibrancy, making my skin appear beautifully bronzed.

Towards the end of the week, as the tan began to fade, I found the product slightly clinging to my ankles, this wasn’t majorly noticeable, but definitely worth mentioning.

Comparison and Verdict: 

Both Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam and St. Tropez Tanning Mousse offered impressive results, but they had their distinct characteristics.

The Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam excelled in delivering a natural-looking tan with a subtle golden glow. It was easy to apply, and the tan lasted consistently throughout the week.

On the other hand, the St. Tropez Tanning Mousse impressed me with its intense and deep tan. It provided an immediate impact and maintained its vibrancy remarkably well. The color was bolder and gave a more pronounced bronzed effect.

In the end, the choice between these two self-tanning products depends on personal preference. If you prefer a natural, sun-kissed look, Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam is an excellent option. However, if you desire a more intense and striking tan, the St. Tropez Tanning Mousse delivers that extra oomph.

ProductBondi Sands Self Tanning FoamSt.Tropez Classic Self Tanner Mousse
Bondi Sands Self Tanning FoamSt.Tropez Classic Self Tanner Bronzer Mousse
FragranceRenowned for its coconut scent. Another variant offers a creamy cocoa butter fragrance.Does not have a standout identifiable fragrance like Bondi Sands.
PriceApprox $24 for 200ml bottleApprox $44 for 240ml bottle
Texture and ApplicationDries quickly, ensuring a smooth application.Requires slightly longer to blend rather than being absorbed immediately.
Color Payoff and ResultsOffers a natural-looking tan.Provides a rich tan
PopularityHighly recommended, with Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam being a top pick in 2023.Despite the higher price, it remains a sought-after brand in the self-tanning industry.
Buy

Conclusion: Which Self-Tanner is Better, Bondi Sands or St. Tropez?

In conclusion, after comparing Bondi Sands and St. Tropez self-tanners, it is clear that both brands have their unique strengths. Bondi Sands stands out for its delightful coconut scent, quick-drying formula, and affordable price point.

On the other hand, St. Tropez offers a natural-looking tan but may feel slightly heavier on the skin. Ultimately, the choice between these two top-notch self-tanners comes down to personal preference and desired results.

In my personal opinion, Bondi Sands takes the first place spot, I feel St Tropez doesn’t boast anything extra than Bondi Sands, and it’s almost double the price! So I’d go for the affordable option that still promises a gorgeous, natural-looking tan!