10Best.Guide

Self Tanning Lotion

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Great smell
  • Easy to apply
  • Good ingredients
  • Gives a natural-looking tan
  • Boosts self-confidence
Cons
  • Expensive compared to other self-tanners
  • May not work well for all skin types
Bottom Line
Coco & Eve Self Tanner is a good option for those looking for a natural-looking tan with a pleasant smell. However, it may not work well for all skin types and is more expensive than other self-tanners on the market.
Pros
  • Gives a natural-looking tan
  • Comes with a color guide to ensure even application
  • Smells good
  • Lasts about a week without reapplying
  • Comes with a moisturizing lotion to extend the life of the tan
Cons
  • May transfer onto clothing and sheets
  • May not be effective for very fair skin
Bottom Line
Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam is a good option for those looking for a natural-looking tan. However, it may not be effective for very fair skin and may require multiple applications for desired results. Users should be cautious of potential transfer onto clothing and sheets.
Pros
  • Provides a natural-looking tan
  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Gradually builds color without orange or discoloration spots
  • Has a pleasant smell
  • Does not stain or rub off on hands
Cons
  • May not work for very fair skin
  • May not be effective for removing farmer's tan
Bottom Line
Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer is a good option for those looking for a natural-looking tan that also moisturizes the skin. However, it may not work for very fair skin or effectively remove farmer's tan. The lotion has a self-tanner smell and may be very liquidy, but it gradually builds color without orange or discoloration spots. The product imparts a nice glow after a few days and does not stain or rub off on hands.
Pros
  • Provides a gradual tan
  • Moisturizes skin
  • No streaking
  • Gives a natural-looking tan
  • Controls the level of tan
Cons
  • Contains petroleum jelly and BHT
  • Drying
Bottom Line
Jergens Natural Glow is a good product that provides a gradual, natural-looking tan and moisturizes the skin. However, it contains petroleum jelly and BHT, which can be harmful, and may not work well for all skin types. It is also a bit pricey and takes a while to darken the skin.
Pros
  • Works well on pale skin
  • Natural-looking tan
  • No orange or yellow tint
  • Easy to apply
  • Lasts long
Cons
  • Earthy smell
  • Foam is green
Bottom Line
This self-tanner is a great option for those with pale skin looking for a natural-looking tan without any orange or yellow tint. It is easy to apply, quick-drying, and lasts long. However, it has an earthy smell, the foam is green, and the glove is too small. It is recommended to moisturize after use.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Self Tanning Lotion: Tips, Reviews, and More

Overview

Self tanning lotions are a great way to achieve a natural-looking tan without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the best self tanning lotion for your skin type and preferences. In this guide, we'll explore the different types of self tanning lotions, key considerations to keep in mind, features to look for, prices, tips for application, and frequently asked questions.

Types

1. Self Tanning Lotion: This is the most common type of self tanning product. It is easy to apply and typically dries quickly.

2. Sunless Tanning: Sunless tanning products, such as sprays and mists, provide a quick and easy way to achieve a tan. However, they can be difficult to apply evenly.

3. Tanning Mousse: Tanning mousse is a lightweight foam that is easy to apply and dries quickly. It is great for achieving a natural-looking tan.

4. Gradual Tanner: Gradual tanners are perfect for those who want to build up their tan gradually. They are often formulated with moisturizing ingredients to keep the skin hydrated.

5. Bronzer: Bronzers are temporary tanning products that provide an instant tan. They are perfect for special occasions or when you need a quick touch-up.

Key Considerations

1. Skin Type: Consider your skin type when choosing a self tanning lotion. Some products may be better suited for dry skin, while others work best on oily or combination skin.

2. Color: Choose a product that matches your skin tone and desired shade.

3. Ingredients: Look for products that are free of harmful chemicals such as parabens and sulfates.

4. Application: Consider the ease of application and whether you prefer a lotion, mousse, or spray.

5. Drying Time: Some products may take longer to dry than others, so consider your schedule when choosing a self tanning lotion.

Features

1. Streak-Free: Look for a self tanning lotion that is streak-free to ensure a natural-looking tan.

2. Long-Lasting: Choose a product that provides a long-lasting tan to avoid frequent reapplication.

3. Easy Application: Consider a product that is easy to apply to avoid streaks and uneven coverage.

4. Moisturizing: Look for products that contain moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin hydrated.

5. Paraben-Free: Choose products that are free of harmful chemicals like parabens to avoid irritation and other negative effects.

Prices

Self tanning lotions can range in price from $10 to $50 depending on the brand and size of the product. Higher-priced products may offer additional features such as longer-lasting tans or more natural-looking results.

Tips

1. Exfoliate: Exfoliate your skin before applying self tanning lotion to ensure an even application.

2. Apply in Sections: Apply self tanning lotion in sections to ensure even coverage and avoid streaks.

3. Use a Mitt: Use a tanning mitt to apply self tanning lotion for a more even and natural-looking tan.

4. Don't Overdo It: Apply self tanning lotion sparingly to avoid an unnatural or orange-looking tan.

5. Wait to Shower: Wait at least 6-8 hours before showering after applying self tanning lotion to allow the product to fully develop.

FAQs

Q: Is self tanning lotion safe to use?

A: Yes, self tanning lotion is safe to use and provides a safer alternative to UV tanning.

Q: How long does self tanning lotion last?

A: Self tanning lotion can last anywhere from 3-7 days depending on the brand and application.

Q: Can self tanning lotion be used on the face?

A: Yes, many self tanning lotions can be used on the face, but be sure to choose a product that is formulated for facial use.

Q: Will self tanning lotion stain my clothes?

A: Self tanning lotion can stain clothing, so it is best to wear dark clothing or wait until the product has fully dried before getting dressed.

Q: How often should I apply self tanning lotion?

A: This depends on the product and your desired level of tan. Some products require daily application, while others can last up to a week. Follow the instructions on the product for best results.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Gives a natural-looking tan
  • Gradual color build-up
  • Suitable for fair skin
  • Pleasant scent
  • Affordable price
Cons
  • May leak during shipping
  • No return policy
Bottom Line
Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer is an affordable and effective self-tanner that provides a natural-looking tan for fair skin. However, it may not moisturize the skin well and has an unpleasant fragrance for some users. Additionally, it may leak during shipping and there is no return policy.
Pros
  • Reasonably priced
  • Violet undertones for natural look
  • Easy to spread
  • Quick development time
  • No orange tones
Cons
  • Bottle makes it seem like it tans more than it does
  • Takes forever to dry
Bottom Line
This self-tanner is a great option for those on a budget who want a natural-looking tan. It has a quick development time and cancels out any orange tones. However, it can be tricky to apply and takes a while to dry.
Pros
  • Provides a natural-looking tan
  • Easy to use and dries quickly
  • Gives a noticeable color in a short amount of time
  • Has a pleasant scent
  • Can be used on face and body
Cons
  • Contains fine glitter that can transfer onto clothing and other surfaces
  • May not last very long
Bottom Line
L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion is an easy-to-use product that provides a natural-looking tan. It dries quickly and has a pleasant scent. However, it contains fine glitter that can transfer onto clothing and other surfaces, and may not be moisturizing enough. It is important to apply the product carefully to avoid streaks and eye irritation.
Pros
  • Provides a natural-looking tan
  • Easy to apply with mitt
  • Dries quickly
  • Lasts longer than other brands
  • Adds color to pale skin
Cons
  • May cause skin irritation
  • Color can look dirty or orange
Bottom Line
Jergens Instant Sun is a good self-tanner that provides a natural-looking tan and is easy to apply with a mitt. However, it may cause skin irritation, and the color can look dirty or orange. It also washes off easily in the shower and may peel if used in consecutive days.
Pros
  • Easy to spread
  • Pleasant smell
  • No transfer on clothes or sheets
  • User-friendly
  • Gives a natural color
Cons
  • May cause small pimples
  • Color fades quickly
Bottom Line
L'Oreal Sublime Bronze is a user-friendly self-tanner that gives a natural color and has a pleasant smell. However, it may cause small pimples, fade quickly, be sticky after application, not make you very tan, and cause sun freckles/spots to stand out.
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