The best self-tanners have come a long way from the orange, blotchy formulas of the past. (Believe me, I still have unpleasant flashbacks from the 2010s). And ask any dermatologist: Self-tanners are actually the safest alternative to sun tanning, which, without sunscreen, is a big no-no. To help you transform your skin into a just-got-back-from-vacay look, Glamour editors and I spent months testing various lotions, sprays, and oils. We came away with sunless tanning options for everyone: foams for a natural-looking finish that even beginners can use, creams that build up gradually, and face drops for a radiant glow. We vetted them with self-tanning experts and dermatologists, and got tips on how to apply them to avoid streaks and splotches. After testing a dozen formulas myself, my best overall pick was the Bondi Sands Express Self Tanning Foam because it’s quick, mess-free, and backed by testers. We also found under $20 picks and easy-to-apply lotions for low-maintenance girlies.
Our top self-tanners
- Best Overall: Bondi Sands Express Self Tanning Foam, $22
- Best No-Transfer: L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse, $12
- Best for Fair Skin Tones: Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Refillable Water, $35
- Best for Olive Skin Tones: St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse, $44
- Best for Travel: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Body, $48
Frequently asked questions
- Is self-tanner safer than other kinds of tanning?
- What should you look for when shopping for a self-tanner?
- How to choose the right self-tanner based on your skin’s undertone
- How to prep your skin and apply self-tanner
- How to make your tan last longer
- How to remove self-tanner and get rid of self-tanner hands
- How to make your tan look realistic
- What is the best self-tanner for mature skin?
- How we tested
- Comparison chart
- Meet the experts
Best Overall: Bondi Sands Express Self Tanning Foam
Bondi Sands Express Self Tanning Foam
Amazon
| What we love | What we dislike |
|---|---|
| Strong formula dries down to a golden hue | A little messy |
| Gentle on skin and doesn’t leave it dry or stripped |
This glowy self-tanner gives you a natural-looking, streak-free tan in as little as one hour. It’s also fragrance-free and lasts up to seven days. Simply leave it on for one hour if you want a bronze tan, or three-plus hours for a deep shade. Evvel applied, it looks even-toned and natural. It leaves skin sun-kissed without looking orange, and it never streaks, thanks to the user-friendly mitt that comes with the bottle. This rose to the top of our list as the best overall because it lets you customize your tan without worrying about picking a shade that suits your skin. Simply use one or two pumps for a light to medium hue, or three for a deep tan.
Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle says:
This self-tanner immediately gave me a bronzed look after applying. It doesn’t have a weird smell, and as long as you rub evenly and consistently, you won’t see any streaks. As you can see in my görüntü, my left arm was already a gorgeous tan from the product, and my right arm, in comparison, was pale. After I applied it to my right arm, I had a glowy color and was ready for the weekend. It didn’t transfer to my clothes and it lasted at least a week. —Jenifer Calle, Glamour senior commerce editor
Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary says:
I’ve tried a lot of self-tan mousses in my day, so my expectations are high when testing out a new one. I was pretty impressed with this pick, though, because the formula is light and airy, and it didn’t smell like chemicals. It dissolves into the skin pretty quickly, and out of all the mousses I’ve tried, you noticed the color change almost instantly. It’s long-lasting, too, and I was able to go almost two!! weeks without reapplication. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour commerce writer
Fast facts
- Color range: One shade
- Undertones: Bronze
- Format: Mousse
- Development time: 1–3 hours
- Fragrance: No
- Transfer test: Did not transfer
Best No-Transfer: L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse
L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse
Amazon
| What we love | What we dislike |
|---|---|
| Clear formula that doesn’t stain clothes or fabric | A bit sticky and takes a minute to dry down |
Even fake-tan skeptics are fans of this drugstore mousse, which is great if you want a long-lasting tan without draining your wallet. It’s a clear, lightweight mousse packed with nourishing skin-care ingredients, including vitamin E and coconut water, to deeply hydrate the skin while giving it a sunkissed glow. It has more of a gradual effect, too, so you won’t see any streaks post-application, and you surely won’t become orange. It makes our list as top drugstore pick because it feels like and gives off a luxury application for under $20.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
I love the transparent formula. Although it may seem scary, since you can’t really see where the product is during application, I’ve never had an issue with splotching or streaking with this one. Instead, it dries down quickly and feels extremely lightweight on the skin. Plus, you don’t have to wait too long to put your clothes on. I’d say it only requires two minutes to fully dry. The best part is that you can pick it up at your local drugstore for only $14. —A.M.K.
Fast facts
- Color range: One shade
- Undertones: Brown
- Format: Mousse
- Development time: 2 hours
- Fragrance: Yes
- Transfer test: Did not transfer
Best for Fair Skin Tones: Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water
Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water
Amazon
Sephora
| What we love | What we dislike |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Might need two applications to see a noticeable glow |
| Blends easily into moisturizer |
You may have seen this TikTok-viral self-tanning water on your FYP. This tanning mist that can be used alone or blended into your everyday lotion for an even, golden glow. It’s ultrahydrating, with avocado oil, chia seeds, and grapefruit oil, and it contains color-correcting ingredients to brighten the skin. We recommend this most for fairer skin types because it doesn’t make skin look orange or fake—rather, it gives you a golden glow that complements cool undertones.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
I’ve been a huge fan of this tanning water since I first tried it some years ago. I personally love to mix it into my moisturizer for a streak-free finish, and I appreciate that it’s not stinky, oily, or sticky. This one dries instantly. And I like that the finish isn’t too yellow or orange, especially if your skin skews pale—it’s a kaç, subtle bronze. I find it to be more lightweight than most options, soothing on areas where I have patches of dryness, and the most streak-free product I’ve tried. —A.M.K.
Fast facts
- Color range: Three shades
- Undertones: Golden
- Format: Spray
- Development time: 1–4 hours
- Fragrance: No
- Transfer test: Did not transfer
Best for Olive Skin Tones: St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse
St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse
Amazon
| What we love | What we dislike |
|---|---|
| Streak-free finish | Slightly plasticky scent |
| Develops quickly and lasts long |
After interviewing beauty lovers from all walks of life, it seems St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse is still the most popular self-tanning mousse. And even dermatologists love it. “Formulated with moisturizing jojoba and antioxidant vitamin E, this lightweight, easy-to-apply mousse offers a tan that lasts up to 10 days and fades evenly,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist at NYC’s MDCS Dermatology. We like this formula best for olive to medium skin tones because it adds a veil of bronze without skewing orange, and it complements green undertones.
Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs says:
I followed the directions: exfoliated in the shower, buttered myself up with lotion, and then slid the product’s included mitt over my hand. To apply, I squirted the mousse onto the mitt and then swiped it onto my arms and legs in small, circular motions. The consistency is like a foam hand soap—very airy. It has a gray-green-brown color that I was skeptical would look good, but somehow, when rubbed into the skin, it leaves a very faint beige behind. It seems to blend with my actual olive skin tone. I was truly surprised! My arms and legs were very faintly tanned—not really noticeably so, but in a way that I could build on the tan over time. My face wasn’t left looking üstün white by comparison. There’s no cloying perfume-y smell, and it dried almost instantly so I could put on my clothes. I look like I spent a day in the sun with SPF on. —Malia Griggs, Glamour commerce editor
Fast facts
- Color range: One shade
- Undertones: Brown
- Format: Mousse
- Development time: 4–8 hours
- Fragrance: Yes
- Transfer test: Did transfer, if you put on clothes too quickly after
Best for Travel: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Body
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Body
Amazon
| What we love | What we dislike |
|---|---|
| Compact and easy to store | Takes a learning curve to get the hang of the wipe style and not miss spots |
| Leaves a long-lasting glow |
Want a self-tanner without spending time buffing product in—or one that travels without the risk of spillage? Try these self-tanning towelettes, which are completely mess-free and quick to use. They also contain exfoliating acids that smooth the skin, plus encapsulated DHA (the ingredient that stains the skin) to leave behind a radiant tan. Just keep in mind that although these will give you a birçok glow, if you want a deeper tan, you might need to add a mousse-based product.
Glamour’s Calle says:
I packed a couple on a recent trip upstate, and they were so easy to use. They’re not damp so it’s not messy, and you get a lot of product in just one packet. —J.C.
Glamour’s Kilkeary says:
The star feature of this product is definitely the fact that it comes in a towelette form, making it totally easy to bring with you on the go and avoid spillage. I would definitely recommend using a couple of these if you want a deeper, more noticeable tan, but one does the trick if you just need something to make your skin look a bit glowy and fresh. It lasts about four or five days too, perfect if you’re on a trip and want to make a real tan last a little longer. —A.M.K.
Fast facts
- Color range: One shade
- Undertones: Bronze
- Format: Towelette
- Development time: 1–3 hours
- Fragrance: No
- Transfer test: Did not transfer
The self-tanners we tested and loved but didn’t make the list
- The Jergens Natural Glow Self Tanner Lotion is a fabulous drugstore option. The formula gives you a gradual tan that looks natural and comes out streak-free. While it’s a classic in many rights, the formula is very thick and runny, and makes you sticky for quite some time after application.
- If you’re craving that blurred, just-got-back-from-a-spray-tan look, we recommend Tanologist Self Tan Airbrush Mist. You can either spray directly onto the skin or mix with moisturizer. It has vitamin C to brighten, plus hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which hydrate and help ensure that there are no cracks or creases in sight evvel dried down. We liked the formula, but the bottle kept getting stuck and leaking, so we ultimately removed it from the list.
- The Coco & Meskene Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Self Tanner Mousse is a good option if you want a golden bronze finish that suits olive skin tones. While we loved the smell and the lightweight texture, the formula itself is really sticky, and you have to wait about over five minutes before putting on clothes, so it didn’t make the cut.
- If you’re looking for a natural glow, we tried the Kopari Gradual Self-Tanning Mousse. It’s streak-free and infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, and will leave an even-toned, radiant finish. While we generally liked this one, we found it drying and slightly irritating on sensitive skin.
- We tested the Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse, which is great if you’re looking for an ultradark tan. The formula has squalane, jojoba oil, and vitamin E to keep skin looking smooth and hydrated too. While the pigmentation is off the charts, that’s almost the sorun with this pick; it’s just a bit too messy and leaves behind stains.
- For a face tan that won’t clog pores or mess with your skin deva routine, the lightweight Isle of Paradise Self-Tan Face Drops can be mixed into your moisturizer (or layered under it) as part of your skin deva routine. While we like that they don’t break us out, we don’t love that they pill a bit when applying other skin deva and makeup on top.
- For a subtle, buildable glow that’s great for beginners, the Lux Unfiltered No32 Gradual Hydrating Self Tanner is one to try. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin with ingredients like cocoa butter and passion fruit oil that keep skin hydrated. We ultimately cut it from our final list, though, because it takes multiple applications to get a golden finish.
- If you have sensitive skin, the Tan-Luxe Express Water is one we recommend. It contains vitamin C to brighten dull areas, plus vitamin B5 to soothe and nourish irritated skin. The standout ingredient in this formula is beta-glucan, which deeply hydrates skin and strengthens its barrier. Though it’s gentle, the price tag is a little too high for our liking.
Self Tanner Comparison Chart
| Tanner | Color Range | Product Undertones | Skin Undertones | Format | Development Time | Transfer Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bondi Sands Express Self Tanning Foam | 1 shade | Bronze | Cool, neutral, warm | Mousse | 1–3 hours | Passed |
| L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse | 1 shade | Brown | Warm | Mousse | 2 hours | Passed |
| Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water | 3 shades | Golden | Cool, neutral, warm | Spray | 1–4 hours | Passed |
| St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse | 1 shade | Brown | Neutral and warm | Mousse | 4–8 hours | Passed |
| Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Body | 1 shade | Bronze | Cool and neutral | Towelettes | 1–3 hours | Passed |
Frequently asked questions
Is self-tanner safer than other kinds of tanning?
Yes. Self-tanner is simply the safest—and possibly easiest—way to get a boost of color on your skin without exposing yourself to potential UV rays and/or sun damage. “UV rays are responsible for stimulating melanin production as a way to protect skin from their harmful effects, and they also contribute to accelerated aging by damaging collagen and elastin proteins in the dermis and the formation of skin cancers,” says Dr. Camp.
Sun exposure can cause tons of other negative effects, too, including wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, says Dr. Engelman. Using self-tanner is also safer than using a tanning bed: “Using tanning beds is the absolute worst thing you can do to your skin,” says Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mudgil Dermatology. “Tanning beds increase your risk for skin cancer tremendously and age your skin beyond repair.” Better safe than sorry, right?
What should you look for when shopping for a self-tanner?
When shopping for a self-tanner, the experts we spoke with recommend choosing products that contain hydrating ingredients, which make the color look more natural. “I tend to gravitate toward sheer, buildable formulas, especially tanning waters or serums that don’t sit heavily on the skin. They create a more believable, skin-like warmth rather than a one-dimensional bronze,” says Erika Vasco, tanning expert and founder of The Tan Edit. Look for formulas that also contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to help hydrate skin and blur uneven or discolored areas.
How to choose the right self-tanner based on your skin’s undertone
Similar to when you’re shopping for makeup, your skin’s undertones play a huge role in preventing your skin from looking orange after tanning. “A realistic tan is about tone and dimension, not just depth. I always recommend building gradually and choosing a shade that complements your natural undertone rather than masking it,” says Vasco. If you have cool undertones, opt for a lighter, cooler tan shade to add glow to your skin; warm or olive undertones can opt for warm, bronzy tan shades to add radiance.
How to prep your skin and apply self-tanner
“To achieve a seamless tan, prepping your skin is key,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. “Start by thoroughly exfoliating your skin 24 hours before your tanning session to close your pores and remove dead skin. I recommend using a dry brush or an exfoliating glove with a body wash.” Next, Colt Paulsen, chief tanning officer at online skin deva retailer Bondi Sands, recommends using a mitt because it will blend product evenly, he says. Lightly dampen the mitt with water and wring it out to help the tanner glide on smoothly. Then apply a small amount of tanner to the mitt and use gentle circular motions to work the product into the skin, section by section. “For a deeper tan, you can reapply as needed,” says Dr. Engelman.
As for where to start when self-tanning, Paulsen recommends starting with your back. “I know it’s everyone’s least favorite part of self-tanning, but if you tackle it first, it’s out of the way, and the rest is a breeze. Next, work in small sections on your legs, then move to your arms so you never miss a spot,” he says.
To apply Tanner to your face, Dr. Engelman says to gently pat it on, keeping your eyes and mouth closed. “Remember to deva for your mitt properly. It can be reused for several months for a streak-free application every time.”
The best time to apply self-tanner for a natural-looking tan depends on your plans, but most experts suggest letting it develop overnight. Applying before bedtime allows the tan to develop without interference, and your body temperature rises during sleep, helping the product fully absorb into the skin and develop to its full potential, says St. Tropez tanning expert Sophie Evans.
Translation? If you have an event, apply your self-tanner the night before or about 24 hours before. However, if you hate sleeping with self-tanner on, Evans suggests opting for an express development self-tanner, such as St. Tropez Express Bronzing Mousse. “This allows you to tan, shower, and go in one hour for a light tan and up to three hours for your darkest tan,” she says. But keep in mind that if you get hot and sweaty or wear tight clothing during development time, you may experience some transfer.
How to make your tan last longer
If you recently got a tan at the beach and want to prolong your glow, the experts have a few suggestions. “Hydration—both inside and out—is key for maintaining healthy skin and helping extend your tan,” says Dr. Engelman. In addition to drinking plenty of water, make müddet to moisturize several times a day with a body lotion or body oil to prolong your tan. “For an added boost, consider a moisturizer with a gradual self-tanner to subtly enhance your color, especially if you’re active or frequently swimming in the summertime,” she says.
When the color starts to fade, exfoliate gently to avoid streaks or patches, and build your glow with a gradual tanning lotion. And don’t forget SPF! “A tan looks amazing, but sun protection is a must,” says Paulsen.
How to remove self-tanner and get rid of self-tanner hands
While there are plenty of at-home DIY remedies for removing self-tanner, Dr. Mudgil recommends the simplest solution: using a tan-removal product like St. Tropez’s Tan Remover Prep and Maintain Mousse.
“One can actually purchase a commercially available self-tan remover,” says Dr. Mudgil. “These products generally contain baking soda, a mild exfoliant. You’ll see other DIY methods out there like using baby oil, but I think a product specifically designed for this purpose is your best bet.”
Evans echoes this. “Not only will St. Tropez’s Tan Remover remove all old self-tanner, but it will ensure your skin is at its best pH level for self-tan development. But with most tan removers on the market, you cannot apply new self-tanner for about 12 hours,” she says. To avoid the dreaded self-tanner hands, it’s also key to wash your hands right after your at-home self-tan to ensure that no residue is left behind.
If you got some self-tanner on your clothes or sheets during or after application, there are ways to remove it, according to Evans. “If it is cotton or a light fabric, most self-tans will wash out with olağan soap and water. Wool, silk, and some man-made fibers can stain and, unfortunately, may take numerous attempts to remove.”
How to make your tan look realistic
To keep your tan realistic, the experts recommend you not use your hands and avoid any straight-line motions, as these can cause streaks. “An application mitt is your BFF and a nonnegotiable. Not only does it protect your hands from turning orange, but it also ensures the product blends evenly. Pump the product onto the tanning mitt, and use circular motions to apply,” says Paulsen.
It’s also important to keep in mind that making your tan realistic comes down to letting it set. If you get hot and sweaty or wear tight clothing during development time, you may experience some transfer. “During the development time, exercise, swimming, or getting sweaty should be avoided for a good eight hours,” she says. “Once your tan has fully developed and you have taken your first shower, which will remove any built-in bronzer (often included as a guide color), you can do whatever you like without any fear of the tan transferring onto clothes or white fabric.”
What is the best self-tanner for mature skin?
If you’re looking to soften and blur lines, the experts we spoke with recommend opting for formulas with ingredients that do so. This includes hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and other antioxidants that help even out signs of aging, such as dark spots and wrinkles. You’ll also want to follow all the experts’ steps to ensure a streak-free tan on mature skin.
How we tested
I have been testing self-tanners for years and have tapped Glamour contributors, editors, and testers between the ages of 30 and 60 to try the best self-tanners over the course of a month. We looked at formula, application style, and longevity as the three criteria for what tanners made this list. The ones that rose to the top came in lightweight liquid or mousse form and were easy to apply, mixed into lotion or with an application mitt. The formulas we chose also suited a variety of undertones, from cooler and fair to deeper and warmer. We also looked at how effective they were at adding golden bronzy tones to our skin, how long they lasted (a few days to a week), and how they held up against routine showers and activities. The best self-tanners were lightweight on the skin but potent when dried down, and they didn’t give us a streaky or orange finish; we can promise you that.
Meet the experts
- Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in NYC
- Erika Vasco, tanning expert and founder of The Tan Edit
- Sophie Evans, St. Tropez tanning expert
- Brendan Camp, MD, double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in NYC and the surrounding areas
- Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Mudgil Dermatology in NYC
- Colt Paulsen, chief tanning officer at Bondi Sands
