A 101 GUIDE TO BONDI SANDS
No matter the season, a glowing tan can work wonders for how you look and feel. While some of us can jet off to sunnier climes for an enviable winter tan, others may not be as lucky.
Cue: Bondi Sands. From surf to sun care, the Bondi-born brand boosts a golden glow all year round with its signature sultry selection of self tanners and skin care.
To get a deeper understanding of what makes Bondi Sands so unique, we sat down with the team behind the brand to uncover everything from its inspiring history and mission to expert tanning tips and beyond.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
- The Story Of Sun, Sea, Sand And Science
- Bondi Sands’ Main Mission
- Bondi Sands’ Tanning Collections
- Bondi Sands’ Top 5 Tanning Tips
- Bondi Sands’ Skin Care Collections
- More Bondi Sands Bestsellers
- What’s Next For Bondi Sands
THE STORY OF SUN, SEA, SAND AND SCIENCE
Hailing from Australia’s sunny shores, Bondi Sands first opened its doors back in 2012 in a bid to share its signature glow with the rest of the world. Dubbed after its motherland’s most iconic beach, the brand’s covetable collections enhances salon-quality formulas that promote an even, hydrated and natural-looking finish – without the harm of UV rays.
“Australians love the beach lifestyle, but the harsh UV conditions paired with the growing awareness of the risks of sun exposure and the ban on tanning beds in Australia created a demand for a safer solution. At the time, many self-tanning products were either patchy, produced an unnatural orange tint, or didn’t feel premium. We saw a gap for a brand that delivers a salon-quality glow you can achieve at home. And thus, Bondi Sands was born.”
BONDI SANDS’ MAIN MISSION
Going beyond creating its renowned self-tanning, sun care, skin care and body products, Bondi Sands is about the sand, sea, sun and lifestyle that comes with it. “Our mission is to bring confidence to our global community year-round through healthy, radiant results. The outdoor Australian lifestyle inspires every product that we develop. There’s no denying that Australia’s sun has bite, and Aussies are all too familiar with the health risks associated with UV exposure and the importance of wearing SPF daily. Our aim is to tap into that, not only by creating products that offer a sheen that prioritises skin health, but also by investing in education and communication to help shift perceptions around tanning and promote smarter, skin-conscious choices.”
BONDI SANDS’ TANNING COLLECTIONS
With a formula for every occasion, Bondi Sands’ all-inclusive tanning range is split into five renowned categories – Core, Express, Ultra Express, Liquid Gold and Technocolor. Each collection is thoughtfully crafted to suit different tanning needs, skin types and lifestyle preferences. And what makes each range stand out? From quick-developing formulas to buildable gradual tanners and vibrant, colour-rich options designed to deliver that perfect glow every time, it’s time to get up close and personal with each line.
CORE
The heart of Bondi Sands’ tanning line up, the Core Self Tanning Foam is available in three shades (Light/Medium, Dark, Ultra Dark). Its lightweight, mousse-style formula delivers a natural-looking, streak-free tan that develops evenly over time. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, it not only gives your skin a golden glow, but also keeps it feeling soft and hydrated. Ideal for beginners, the Core range offers buildable colour that suits all skin tones, ensuring a sun-kissed finish every time. Whether you’re after a subtle glow or a deep bronze, this foam makes tanning easy, quick, and mess-free.
EXPRESS
Time poor? No worries. Let us introduce you to the Express range. Designed to develop in as little as three hours, these quick-dry, lightweight formulas deliver a rich, golden bronze that’s perfect when you’re short on time but still want that signature Bondi sign off. Infused with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E to hydrate and protect the skin while you tan, these easy-to-apply mousses ensure streak-free, even coverage, making them ideal for last-minute plans or quick touch-ups. What’s more, with customisable development times, you control the depth of your tan, from a light glow to a deep bronze, all without compromising on quality or comfort.
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ULTRA EXPRESS
For experienced tanners looking for a last-minute bronze, the Ultra Express selection delivers a fully developed glow in just one hour, thanks to its world-first ColourLock Accelerator technology. These breakthrough formulas offer those who need an instant boost of sun-kissed colour without waiting hours to develop. Lightweight and fast-drying, they glide on effortlessly for an even, streak-free finish. Ideal for last-minute plans or quick transformations, the Ultra Express Range proves that glowing skin waits for no one.
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GRADUAL LIQUID GOLD
Available in both a foam and oil formula, Liquid Gold shows no visible tint during application and doesn’t need to be washed off – you can simply apply, get dressed and go. Boosting a buildable, natural-looking glow, this luxury lineup is designed for those who prefer a gradual tan with the flexibility to customise their colour depth. Not only delivering a smooth, streak-free application, Liquid Gold also nourishes and hydrates your skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth and supple from top to toe. Whether you’re new to tanning or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-use collection ensures you achieve a just-stepped-off-the-plane radiance.
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TECHNOCOLOR
Available in four shades, the Technocolor collection has been developed for different skin tones, enhancing natural complexions while providing personalised results. Made to stand out, the range delivers rich, vivid hues that push the boundaries of traditional tanning, offering a radiant glow with a modern twist. So, whether you’re aiming for a deep bronze or a dramatic, colour-packed look, Technocolor offers buildable, long-lasting results that let you express your unique style with confidence.
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And to prolong your tan or gradually develop your tan over a number of days? Don’t forget Bondi Sands’ Gradual range which includes the iconic Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk.
BONDI SANDS’ TOP 5 TANNING TIPS
Just like any beauty regime, when it comes to tanning the prep is the most important step! Exfoliate and shave (if shaving is your thing) 24 hours prior to application with a Bondi Sands Exfoliation Mitt. - When you’re ready to apply your self tanner, always ensure skin is clean, dry and moisturiser-free.
- Make sure to wear loose, dark clothing while you’re waiting for your tan to develop. Don’t rush the process.
- Prolong your tan with formulas like the Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk, keeping your skin hydrated with a gradual tanner to help keep the glow going.
- Try to avoid oils, chlorine and excessive scrubbing to ensure your tan lasts!
BONDI SANDS’ SKIN CARE COLLECTIONS
“In true Bondi Sands style, our skin care range is affordable and packed with skin-loving ingredients. No overcomplicated routines here, just great results.” Intrigued? Us too. Keep reading to uncover each skin care selection and how it benefits your body from top to toe.
BE BRONZE INSTANT BRONZING AND HYDRATING SERUM
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A hydrating two-in-one serum, the Be Bronze Instant Bronzing & Hydrating Serum grants you a sun-kissed glow while nourishing your skin. Shielding against UVA and UVB sun exposure, the multitasking marvel leaves no white cast, creating an invisible, lightweight finish packed with skin care benefits. Oh, and did we mention it utilises squalane to protect the skin barrier too?
EYE SPY VITAMIN C EYE CREAM
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£9.99
Make three hours of sleep look like twelve with the Eye Spy Vitamin C cream. Brightening your under eyes with illuminating particles that diminish dark circles instantly and over time, this hydrating hero is supercharged with (you guessed it) vitamin C, kakadu plum and de-puffing green coffee bean – making it just as energising as you morning brew.
FRESH’N UP GEL CLEANSER
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A gentle gel wash that works to cleanse the skin while removing make up, excess oil and impurities, the Fresh'n Up Gel Cleanser is bursting with Australian natural botanicals to counter irritation and reduce the look of redness. And the best bit? Just like the entire skin care line, this blend is suitable for all skin types, it’s dermatologically tested, gentle enough for sensitive skin, free from fragrance and non-comedogenic.
THIRSTY SKIN HYALURONIC ACID SERUM
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Designed to intensely hydrate your skin and lock in moisture, The Thirsty Skin Hyaluronic Acid Serum ensures parched complexions are no more! Brimming with hyaluronic acid — a powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin — alongside antioxidant-rich algae extract, this dew-enhancing formula hydrates, locks in lasting moisture and leaves skin feeling soft, plump and refreshed.
MORE BONDI SANDS BESTSELLERS
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WHAT’S NEXT FOR BONDI SANDS
“You’ll have to keep your eyes peeled… Sun care will be a focus for us moving forward, but we’re always on the lookout to continue innovating the self tanning space. What you can be sure of? There’s lots more of exciting stuff to come from Bondi Sands!” concludes the brand.
Watch this space!
Cult Beauty’s Senior SEO Copywriter, Trifonia started out in the industry when bold brows were just becoming a ‘thing’, and shares a passion for all things fashion and beauty. Currently embracing her curly girl journey (after endless years of straightening her strands), she is finally reverting to her natural ways! When Triffy isn’t busy testing out the latest curl-saving solutions, you’ll find her binging the latest reality TV show or on a long walk listening to her ever-evolving country music playlist.
