Over the years, self-tanners have improved vastly thanks to advances in product formulation that address self-tanning issues like unnatural orangey casts (by using cooler tones and DHA), unpleasant scents (helped by superior odour-neutralising and masking fragrances), and streaking (better formulation bases such as lotions, creams, mousses, wipes, and mists that apply and spread seamlessly).
With choice comes confusion, though, and with so many sunless tanners on the market it can be tricky to make a selection. So, from gradual and rapid tanners to blurring, perfecting formulas, we’ve created this list of the 14 best self-tanning products available right now. Read on to find your new favourite sunless-tanner – and discover your glow!
Some of the best self tanners include:
- Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam
- St Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse
- L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Hydrating Self-Tanning Milk
- Tarte Cosmetics Brazilliance 2HR Express Deep Foaming Self-Tanner
- Tan Luxe Super Glow Body Serum
- James Read Tan Click & Glow
- Marc Jacobs Glow Away Bronzing Coconut Body Stick
How did we curate this list of the best self-tanning products?
In selecting these 14 best self-tanning products, we considered online reviews, active ingredients, and price points. All products listed are highly rated by people who have purchased them. We also made sure that most of the self tanners that made the list contained natural ingredients.
Our Picks for Best Self-Tanning Products for a Flawless Faux Tan
1. Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam
Price: $47
Topping our list of best self tanners is the Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam. Biased? Maybe. But the 5-star customer reviews don’t lie! Blurring pigmentation and perfecting the skin, our hydrating, no-nasties formula has zero telltale fake tan smell – in fact, it smells unBalieavably good. It’s also lightweight, non-sticky and fast-drying, with 3 gorgeous shades and a handy guide colour for an even, streak-free finish – every single time.
Our Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam was voted the best fake tan formula for 2024 by Glamour UK!
2. St Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse
Price: $44
St. Tropez is super well known as one of the best self-tanning brands in the industry, and it got its glowing rep for good reason. With a formula that allows you to control the depth of your colour, you can go from a subtle glow to a deep all-over tan in just a few hours. Like Sunny Honey, this self tanning mousse is tinted, which helps you see exactly where you’ve applied it. And which pasty parts need more attention.
3. L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Hydrating Self-Tanning Mousse
Price: $15
We all love a beauty multi-tasker, and L’Oreal’s Sublime Bronze Hydrating Tanning Mousse delivers an even, bronzed glow while also softening and nourishing the skin. Achieve your preferred shade from a subtle glow to bronzed tan by applying daily until the desired tan is achieved.
4. Loving Tan Platinum 2 HR Express Self Tanning Mousse
Price: $45
5. St. Tropez Luxe Body Self Tan Serum
Price: $49
If subtle is the way you roll, Tan-Luxe’s Self Tan Serum gradually deposits colour for a sun-kissed glow, rather than a deep bronzed look. Enriched with skincare ingredients, this no-rinse, ultra-lightweight serum will hydrate, smooth, soothe, & even skin tone. What’s not to love?
6. James Read Tan Click & Glow
Price: $33
7. Marc Jacobs Glow Away Bronzing Coconut Body Stick
Price: $21
8. Trish McEvoy Instant Solutions Tanning Drops
Price: $48
9. VITA LIBERATA Fabulous Self Tanning Tinted Lotion
Price: $20
10. Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster
Price: $46
11. Coola Sunless Tan Luminizing Body Serum
Price: $48
12. South Seas Skincare Tahitian Tan Mist
Price: $30
Missed out when the natural tans were being handed out? No problem. The South Seas Tahitian Tan Mist creates a natural-looking tan in no time at all. Formulated to be streak-free and grease-free, the gentle mist will bronze your skin without any unsightly residue. Result!
13. SOL by Jergens Sunless Tanning Deep Water Mousse
Price: $17
Sometimes perfection can’t be rushed and this Sunless Tanning Deep Water Mousse is a gradual self tanning mousse that suits all skin types and tones.
Your Ultimate Guide to a Flawless Self-Tan
1. Pre-Application Preparation Tips:
For that flawless, sun-kissed glow, it’s all about the prep! Exfoliating and moisturizing before applying your self-tanner is the secret to achieving a smooth, streak-free finish. Start by gently exfoliating with a scrub to slough off dead skin cells and create the perfect canvas. Then, apply a hydrating moisturizer to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles to prevent uneven patches. Our go-to? Coco & Eve’s Bali Buffing Sugar Deluxe followed by the Moisture Whip.
2. Natural-Looking Tan Without The Sun:
Say goodbye to tanning beds and hello to a healthier, safer glow! With the risks of sun exposure and tanning beds on the rise, self-tanners have become the ultimate go-to for achieving that bronzed beauty without the worry. They give you a natural-looking, radiant glow right at home, all while keeping your skin protected from harmful UV rays.
3. Application Tips to Avoid Common Issues:
Achieving a flawless, streak-free tan is easier than you think! With just a few simple tips and the right tools, you can ensure your self-tanner goes on evenly every time. Here’s how:
- Use a tanning mitt: This is your secret weapon for an even application and prevents your hands from getting stained.
- Apply in long, sweeping motions: This technique helps to distribute the product evenly across your skin.
- Be gentle with tricky areas: Apply less product and use a lighter touch on areas like ankles, knees, and elbows to avoid buildup.
- Blend excess product: Use your mitt to gently blend any leftover product onto your hands and feet for a natural, sun-kissed finish.
FAQs about Self-Tanning Products
How to apply a self-tanner?
How long does a self-tanner last?
When you apply self-tan, you’re naturally going to want it to last as long as possible. Generally self-tanning products last for around 7-10 days, but there ARE ways you can keep that glow going… and going! Check out our blog, How Do I Prolong My Sunny Honey Fake Tan? to learn more.
Are there different tanners for different body parts?
While most self-tanners can be applied to both the face and the body, some products are specifically formulated to be used only on the face. The skin on your face is much more delicate than the skin on your body, so facial tanning products, like our Bronzing Face Drops, are specially designed to be gentle on the skin while helping to build beautiful, believable, long-lasting colour.
How do I choose the right shade of self-tanner for my skin tone?
Look for self-tanners with undertones that complement your skin's natural undertones. Cool undertones pair well with cool or neutral self-tanners, while warm undertones look best with golden or olive tones. If unsure, start with a lighter shade or gradual tanner and build your desired color over time.
How do you remove self-tanner?
To remove self-tanner, gently exfoliate your skin using a scrub or mitt, focusing on areas where the tan is darker or uneven. Soaking in a warm bath beforehand can help soften the tan, making it easier to remove. You can also try using lemon juice, baking soda, or a specifically formulated tan removal product. If the tan doesn't come off completely, repeat the process a few days later. Remember to be patient and gentle to avoid irritating your skin.
Are self-tanning products safe for all skin types?
Generally, most self-tanning products are safe for all skin types when used correctly. However, those with sensitive skin may need to take extra precautions.
Look for self-tanners labeled as hypoallergenic or formulated for sensitive skin. These are less likely to contain potential irritants like fragrances or harsh chemicals. It's also a good idea to perform a patch test before applying any new self-tanner to your entire body.
Which self-tanning products offer the most natural-looking results?
In our list, products like Tan Luxe Super Glow Body Serum and Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster are praised for their gradual buildable formulas that develop a sun-kissed glow over time.
Remember, the best way to find your perfect match is to consider your skin tone, desired level of tan, and personal preferences. Experimenting with different products and techniques is always encouraged!
Happy tanning, beauties!
Check out more tan guides & tips here!
Edited By: Pip Jarvis & Vidhya
