11 Self-Tanners We Tried and Love for a Natural-Looking Sun-Kissed Glow

Be a bronzed goddess, all year long.

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Assortment of the best self tanners we recommend on a tan background

Byrdie / Kevin Liang

Ditch the sun damage and achieve a safe, achievable glow with self-tanner. "Using self-tanning products at home decreases your exposure to premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer caused by the sun and tanning beds," says celebrity esthetician and dermatological nurse Natalie Aguilar. "They contain an FDA-approved ingredient called dihydroxyacetone, commonly known as DHA, which temporarily tans the outermost layers of your skin.”

We listened to dermatologists and put 41 self-tanners to the test. We applied self-tanner to ourselves at home for two weeks, rating everything from how easy they are to use to how quickly they develop color. Combining our findings with expert advice, we picked the very best self-tanners to give you a beautiful tan, minus the sunburns and wrinkles.

Best Overall

Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse

Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse Tanning Mousse

Tan Luxe

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    5/5
  • Overall Results
    5/5
What We Like
  • Easy, mess-free application

  • Lightweight, blendable consistency

  • No transfer

  • Pleasant fresh scent

What We Don't Like
  • Could be longer-lasting

Tanning at home can be messy with plenty of room for error, whether during the application or while waiting for the formula to dry. We’re happy to report that this hydrating foam mousse from Tan Luxe has the easiest, cleanest application process. It goes on completely clear (so you don’t have to worry about it transferring while it's still drying), and gives you a glowy, natural shade that lasts about a week. 

While testing this product, we loved that it had a smooth, blendable texture that glides on easily with the provided mitt. It dries in about 20 minutes without any streakiness or uneven patches. We were most impressed with how quick the drying process was—we applied before bed and had absolutely no transfer on white sheets. Upon waking, we saw noticeable results that didn’t look orange or unflattering. This formula also earns bonus points for its slightly floral, fresh scent that doesn’t linger.

Who It’s For

Easy application and a flattering result makes this our top pick for everyone.

Type: Mousse | Shades: 2 | Size: 6.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse

Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse

Lux Unfiltered

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    4.5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    4.8/5
  • Overall Results
    4.9/5
What We Like
  • Non-toxic formula made with natural hydrating ingredient

  • Absorbs into the skin easily

  • Even coverage that doesn't streak

What We Don't Like
  • Strong scent

We also give high marks to this tanning mousse from Lux Unfiltered, which is formulated with natural plant extracts like sunflower and papaya to hydrate the skin while providing a natural color and glow. It looks very dark when it first comes out of the bottle, so we were surprised to see that it didn’t stain our hands or furniture. This is due to its thicker foam texture which stays put once applied (so no dripping or running). It has a lightweight consistency that melts into the skin effortlessly, making it easy to create a thin, even layer for a smooth application. 

It comes with a soft, double-sided mitt that makes it even easier to buff out the product for better absorption and takes about 30 minutes to dry completely. We noticed results about four hours after the initial application, and we fell in love with the gorgeous color that resembled a subtle, after-summer tan. We also appreciated that it took only about 10-15 pumps of the formula to cover our entire body, so it definitely has great value. Our only con is that it has a pretty strong fragrance, which leans more chemical than blood orange. But, it didn’t last too long, so it didn’t bother us much. 

Who It’s For

Hydrating plant extracts and a natural, glowy result make this self-tanner a great all-rounder. 

Type: Mousse | Shades: 1 | Size: 6.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes 

Best Budget

Sol by Jergens No Wait Tropical Tan Mousse

Sol by Jergens No Wait Tropical Tan Tinted Mousse

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    4.9/5
  • Tan Longevity
    5/5
  • Overall Results
    4.7/5
What We Like
  • Instant, noticeable results

  • Tan lasts for days

  • Easy to apply

What We Don't Like
  • Sticky after initial application

If you’re in a pinch and need a tanner that’s fast and easy to find, look no further than this drugstore pick from Sol by Jergens. It develops pretty much as soon as you apply (and builds a little more after a few hours) and gives you a subtle glow with one application. 

When we tried it for ourselves, we noticed that it had a light texture that blended evenly—so it only took about 20 minutes for the whole process. It did feel a little sticky afterward, but once it dried down there was no transfer on our sheets or pajamas. The end result was a flattering, splotch- and streak-free tan that lasted for days. 

Who It’s For

For subtle bronzing on a budget, this drugstore pick is the way to go. 

Type: Mousse | Shades: 2 | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Best Mist

St. Tropez Self Tan Express Mist

St. Tropez Self Tan Express Mist

St. Tropez

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    4.7/5
  • Tan Longevity
    4.8/5
  • Overall Results
    4.9/5
What We Like
  • Dries quickly

  • Can customize your specific color

  • Easy to apply

  • Vegan, clean ingredients

What We Don't Like
  • Has an unpleasant scent

If self-tanning mousses aren’t your thing, try a tanning mist instead, specifically this one from self-tan brand St. Tropez. It has a fine mist that dries quicker than most mousse formulas—so you do have to work quickly to blend it in—but the result is even and streak-free. 

The coolest thing about this pick is that you can choose what shade works best for you (light, medium, or dark tan) with just one product. All you have to do is wait one, two, or three hours to shower based on how dark you want it to be. We also love that it dries down within a few minutes, but the shade still deepens for a couple of hours afterward. We had great color for about four to five days, and it faded evenly without any splotches. Our only complaint is that it has a strong smell. 

Who It’s For

If you prefer the ease of a tanning mist, this customizable formula from St. Tropez works wonders. 

Type: Mist | Shades: 1 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No 

Best Drops

Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Firming Body Drops

Isle of Paradise Medium Self-Tanning Firming Body Drops

Sephora

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    5/5
  • Overall Results
    4.6/5
What We Like
  • Add to any body moisturizer

  • Provides a subtle glow

  • Non-streaky formula

What We Don't Like
  • Have to use hands to apply evenly

Isle of Paradise makes the #1 best-selling face self-tanners, so it’s no surprise that their body drfhowops are just as excellent. Made with caffeine and oat extract to hydrate and brighten the skin, this easy-to-use formula only requires one step for a sun-kissed complexion. To use tanning drops, mix in to your body lotion and apply as normal, and then you’ll have a subtle but noticeable glow that lasts for about four days. 

Since it blends in with your lotion, it absorbs pretty quickly without leaving a sticky residue. We found that it had absolutely no transfer, and faded evenly without any streaks. One thing to note is that since you have to apply with your hands, make sure to wash them thoroughly once you’re done. 

Who It’s For

These drops would suit anyone who wants to streamline their beauty regimen. 

Type: Drops | Shades: 1 | Size: 2.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes 

Best Wipes

Tan Towel Body Tan Towelettes

Tan Towel Body Tan Towelettes

Macy's

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    4.8/5
  • Tan Longevity
    4.7/5
  • Overall Results
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Dries in 5 minutes

  • Buildable tan

  • Foolproof application

What We Don't Like
  • Not as easy to apply to hard-to-reach areas

You might think that using wipes to tan could be a little difficult, but these tanning towelettes make it so easy. Coming in three shades and in full-body as well as half-body sizes, they’re similar in texture to makeup wipes—except they’re saturated with a buildable tanning solution for bronzed, luminous skin. 

When testing, we found the application process super simple—you just need to spread it around your body in circular motions, making sure that all areas are covered. It doesn’t leave a mess or drip as you’re applying, and it dries completely in about five minutes (making it perfect for when you’re on the go). We think it’s a great choice for maintaining an existing tan since the color is subtle and gradual, and it fades evenly without leaving streaks behind. The one downside is that tanning towelettes can be tricky to use on hard-to-reach areas, so be prepared to ask for help when doing your back. 

Who It’s For

These super easy wipes are ideal for topping off a tan on the go. 

Type: Wipes | Shades: 3 | Size: 5-50 pack of wipes | Cruelty-Free: Yes 

Best Express Tan

Loving Tan 2 HR Self Tanning Mousse

Loving Tan 2 HR Express Self Tanning Mousse

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    4.5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    5/5
  • Overall Results
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Long-lasting color

  • Fades evenly and naturally

  • Blendable consistency

What We Don't Like
  • Can transfer while still drying

Express tans are a great choice for those who are looking for same-day results or don’t have the time to let it develop overnight. This bronzing mousse from Loving Tan dries completely down in about an hour and can be washed off after two hours, revealing a deep but natural-looking tan that lasts about a week and a half. 

We love that it fades very naturally without leaving any streaks behind and that it comes in three shades to match multiple skin tones. We didn’t love that it can transfer before it’s completely dry, so it’s not a pick for you if you need to rush to get dressed. 

Who It’s For

This express tanner is best for anyone who needs a last-minute bronze glow (but doesn’t need to run out the door). 

Type: Mousse | Shades: 3 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes 

Best Long-Lasting

IL Makiage 85/66 Sun Foam

IL Makiage 85/66 Magic Moisturizing Sun Foam

IL Makiage

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    5/5
  • Overall Results
    4.8/5
What We Like
  • Lasts up to seven days

  • Hydrates and soothes with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera

  • Quick-drying

What We Don't Like
  • Unpleasant scent

This long-lasting self-tanner gives you up to seven days of the perfect tan. When testing it out, we loved that it dried immediately—so there was no transfer at all. It also develops very quickly, so you can see the color pretty much as soon as you apply it (and add more as needed). 

It’s formulated with a natural tanning agent called erythrulose, which can also reduce the appearance of scars and discoloration. You’ll also find hyaluronic acid and aloe vera in the formula to hydrate and soften the skin.The only thing we didn’t like was the strong scent.  

Who It’s For

This foaming formula lasts an impressive seven days, making it perfect for those who love having a natural glow but don’t love the process of tanning itself. 

Type: Foam | Shades: 1 | Size: 4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for All Skin Tones

Bondi Sands Technocolor Emerald 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam

Bondi Sands Technocolor Emerald 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam

Bondi Sands

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    4.5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    5/5
  • Overall Results
    4.7/5
What We Like
  • Great shade range

  • Can be washed off in an hour

  • Doesn't transfer while drying

What We Don't Like
  • Dries slowly

Self-tanner for Black women was previously neglected from the market, there are many formulas that can add a subtle glow to all tones, even amplifying melanin-rich skin. This express formula from Bondi Sands comes in four different shades, ranging from a natural cool tone to a warm golden tone. The brand conducted extensive research to find the best tanning actives and colors that complement each skin tone, so it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have a flattering, luminous finish. 

When applying the product, we were happy to see that it didn’t drip when using the mitt, and it was a simple and clean process. While our skin still felt tacky for about an hour after applying, we loved that it didn’t transfer even when it wasn’t completely dry. The result was a radiant, golden color that lasted about five days.

Who It’s For

Four shade options make this self-tanner suitable for a wider range of skin tones. 

Type: Foam | Shades: 4 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Mature Skin

Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam

Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam

Coco & Eve

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    4.7/5
  • Overall Results
    5/5
What We Like
  • Long-lasting tan that fades naturally

  • Contains firming and anti-aging ingredients

  • Great scent

What We Don't Like
  • Product can absorb quickly while applying

Not only does this self-tanning formula give you a just-vacationed glow for around six days, but it also works to prevent signs of aging and cellulite. It’s formulated with antioxidant lotus extract to prevent the appearance of cellulite, anti-inflammatory virgin coconut oil for hydration, and vitamin A & E-rich mango butter to diminish the signs of aging like crepiness.

We love that it has a velvety smooth texture, and comes with a mitt that makes application easy. We saw a difference in our color right away and got noticeably darker after two hours—becoming a perfect deep bronze after a full day. The product absorbs pretty quickly, making it hard to apply evenly, so be sure to rub it in fast.

Who It’s For

The skincare benefits of this antioxidant-packed formula make it the ultimate selection for mature skin. 

Type: Foam | Shades: 3 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Fragrance-Free

Bondi Sands Pure Self Tanning Drops

Bondi Sands Pure Self Tanning Drops

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Application
    5/5
  • Tan Longevity
    4.5/5
  • Overall Results
    5/5
What We Like
  • No scent and colorless

  • No drying time

  • Contains hydrating ingredients

What We Don't Like
  • Doesn't last as long as other formulas

Even though many formulas on the market are scented, self-tanner smell—which is caused by the key ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA)—can be persistent. We’re happy to report that this one from Bondi Sands has no smell at all, making it perfect for both face and body. To apply, just add up to 12 drops to your normal moisturizer and massage in circular motions, making sure to spread evenly. 

It’s completely colorless so it didn’t transfer onto our hands or make a mess while drying (which it does pretty much immediately). You can use this daily when you moisturize, but it lasts about three days without reapplication – not quite as long as some other formulas, but not bad. 

Who It’s For

Does the smell of self-tanners turn you off? Then this fragrance-free option was made for you. 

Type: Drops | Shades: n/a | Size: 1.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What to Look for When Buying Self-Tanners

  • Shades: All self-tanners aren’t made equal, which means one doesn’t fit all skin tones and types. Many formulas in the market only come in one shade, which doesn’t always work for those with medium or dark skin tones. When looking for a self-tanner, it’s best to choose one that is recommended for your specific skin tone or one that comes with multiple shade options.
  • Undertones: You’ll also want to pay attention to the color base of the formula, which can determine what your end result will look like. “An olive-based tan will balance out red and pink in the skin, a golden tan will balance out olive in the skin, a violet brown tan will balance out yellow and olive in the skin,” says celebrity tanning artist Kristyn Pradas. “Using this method will prevent you from turning orange.”
  • Hydrating Formula: “Look for hydrating ingredients that balance the dehydrating effects of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the active ingredient in self-tanner,” says esthetician Rhea Souhleris Grous. Many of our favorite picks include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and more to replenish the moisture levels in the skin.
  • Development Time: The development time is how long it takes for a self-tanning product to show up on your skin, and the time can vary from product to product. There are express tans, which can develop in as little as two hours. Gradual formulas start developing within a couple of hours but show the best result after leaving it to develop overnight.
FAQ
  • What is the best way to apply a body self-tanner?

    “Think of self-tanning as makeup for the body and you are the artist,” says Grous. “Consider where the sun naturally hits your skin and where it doesn’t. The palms of the hands and soles of the feet are never tan. The undersides of the arms are always lighter than the tops.” 

    She recommends reading the instructions for specifics and then using the gloves to apply in layers instead of doing too much at once. Start from above your ankles and work your way up, and remove the gloves once you’re done to blend the excess onto the back of your hands. She also mentions that prep is important—make sure to exfoliate and moisturize before application.

  • How long does self-tanner last after applying?

    The majority of self-tanners last about five to seven days. Grous says that moisturizing daily can extend the life of your tan, as well as exfoliating less. 

Why Trust Byrdie

Shannon Stubbs is a staff commerce updates writer at Byrdie, where she covers beauty. She’s frequently trying new skincare and makeup products to recommend the best of the best to readers. 

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer and regular contributor at Byrdie, where she covers skincare, makeup, and other color cosmetics. With expert insight from an esthetician and dermatological nurse in mind, she compiled insights from our in-house testers, pored over product specs, and rounded up our top picks for this story. Theresa has substantial experience researching, testing, and writing about beauty and lifestyle products. She has tried sunless tanning products from several of the above brands, including St. Moriz, St. Tropez, Jergens, Isle of Paradise, and Tan Towel.

Additional guidance was provided by: Rhea Souhleris Grous, a New York-based certified esthetician and a member of Byrdie’s Beauty & Wellness Review board; Kristyn Pradas, a professional airbrush-tanning artist and owner of Pradas Glow; Natalie Aguilar, a celebrity esthetician and a dermatological nurse.

Updated by Caitlyn Martyn
Edited by Ally Hirschlag
Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
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