It is no secret that face masks and self-tanners are two of my favorite things. In the world. James Read Express Mask Tan landed in my hot little hands last week and just when I thought nothing could beat his Sleep Mask Tan, I now have two winners that actually go in TANdem! The morning routine just got so much more efficient and effective thanks to this wash-off tanning mask!
As a self-proclaimed morning person (and proud of it), I like my mornings long and loungy. Tea, coffee, The Elvis Duran Show, horoscope, reality check – time flies and I’m not getting any tanner. Until now! James Read Express Mask Tan delivers conditioning and hydrating mask benefits with a tan that continues to build for hours after washing off the product. Talk about not cutting any corners. Good morning, yes it is!
The concept behind Express Mask Tan is brilliant. This clear’ish gel (same scent and consistency as the Sleep Mask Tan I wrote about in April), applies clear and sinks in within a minute or so. The directions encourage you to leave it on for 30 minutes and to then step into the shower. The full on tan effect will not be immediate, but you will notice a subtle glow. The natural looking faux tan develops over the next few hours. Taking a tip of out The Book of James, I left the mask on for an hour, which resulted in a deeper color effect. Because it dries completely clear, you can easily hit up a local Starbucks while you wait. No one will know… you have a mask on AND you’re getting a tan at the same time. Undercover boss!
With hyaluronic acid and jojoba seed oil, Express Mask Tan hydrates and conditions while Vitamin E, aloe vera and algae provide some serious firming action. This double action formula is a true hybrid that combines the treatments I most often use and delivers cumulative results. Ideal for a casual morning before a hectic day or as a pre-party remedy, it controls and customizes the amount of color you wish to build up throughout the day, which is a huge added bonus. I plan to try the 45 minute mark next for the happy medium glow.
The confidence I have in anything James Read is borderline obsessive. With non TAN-gerine results, I embrace every one of his products and I am ecstatic to try the rest of the range. I beat myself up daily for not stopping by the James Read studio on the 4th floor at Harvey Nichols while in London earlier this month. Note to self: cut yourself off after 4 espresso martinis at the bar a floor above.
Available at net-a-porter.com for $45 (50 ml) and QVC UK for £25.
