10Best.Guide

Tanning Lotion Self Tanner

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Nice scent
  • Easy to apply
  • Color starts to show up quickly
  • Natural-looking color
  • Suitable for pale skin
Cons
  • Guide color can turn green
  • May come off quickly in certain areas
Bottom Line
St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse is a great option for those looking for a natural-looking tan that is easy to apply and fades gradually. However, it may not darken much with a light application and the guide color can turn green.
Pros
  • Gives a natural-looking tan
  • No orange or artificial color
  • Easy to apply
  • Lasts for a few days
  • No skin irritability or breakouts
Cons
  • Smell is unpleasant after showering
  • Takes 3-4 days to look realistic
Bottom Line
St. Tropez Self Tan Express is a great self-tanner that gives a natural-looking tan without any orange or artificial color. It is easy to apply, lasts for a few days, and doesn't cause any skin irritability or breakouts. However, it has an unpleasant smell after showering, takes a few days to look realistic, and doesn't last long. It is also a higher-end product and may not be suitable for very pale skin.
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
  • 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
  • Beautiful color
  • Easy to apply
  • EWG verified
  • Forgiving
  • No offensive smell
Cons
  • Thick cream
  • May leave white residue
Bottom Line
This self-tanner is a great option for those looking for a natural-looking, forgiving, and clean product. However, it may require multiple applications, and it is on the pricier side.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Tanning Lotion Self Tanner

Overview

Tanning lotion self tanner is a great way to achieve a natural-looking tan without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which product to choose. In this buying guide, we'll cover the different types of tanning lotion self tanner, key considerations for choosing the right product, top features to look for, prices, tips for application, and FAQs.

Types

1. Gradual Tan: Gradual tanning lotions are perfect for those who want to build up their tan slowly and gradually over time. These lotions typically contain less DHA (the active ingredient that causes the skin to tan) and can be used daily to build up a natural-looking tan.

2. Instant Tan: Instant tanning lotions are perfect for those who want a quick and easy tan. These lotions typically contain more DHA and can provide a darker tan in just one application.

3. Tinted Lotion: Tinted tanning lotions are great for those who want to see where they've applied the product. The tint helps ensure even coverage and reduces the risk of streaking.

Key Considerations

1. Skin Type: Consider your skin type when choosing a tanning lotion self tanner. If you have sensitive skin, look for products that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. If you have dry skin, look for products that are moisturizing.

2. Ingredients: Look for tanning lotions that contain natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil. Avoid products that contain parabens and other harmful chemicals.

3. SPF Protection: If you plan to spend time in the sun, look for tanning lotions that contain SPF protection. This will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Features

1. Streak-Free: Look for tanning lotions that are streak-free to ensure an even, natural-looking tan.

2. Fast-Drying: Choose a tanning lotion that dries quickly to avoid staining your clothes or sheets.

3. Long-Lasting: Look for tanning lotions that provide a long-lasting tan to reduce the need for frequent reapplication.

Prices

Tanning lotion self tanner can range in price from $5 to $50, depending on the brand and features. Generally, higher-priced products contain more natural ingredients and provide longer-lasting results.

Tips

1. Exfoliate: Before applying tanning lotion self tanner, exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and ensure even coverage.

2. Apply Evenly: Use a tanning mitt or gloves to apply the product evenly and avoid streaking.

3. Moisturize: After applying tanning lotion self tanner, moisturize your skin daily to maintain your tan and prevent dryness.

FAQs

Q: How long does tanning lotion self tanner last?

A: Tanning lotion self tanner can last anywhere from 3-10 days, depending on the product and how often you shower.

Q: Can I use tanning lotion self tanner on my face?

A: Yes, many tanning lotions are safe to use on the face. Look for products that are specifically formulated for facial use.

Q: How often should I apply tanning lotion self tanner?

A: This depends on the product and your desired level of tan. Generally, once every 2-3 days is sufficient for maintaining a natural-looking tan.

Q: Will tanning lotion self tanner stain my clothes?

A: If you choose a fast-drying tanning lotion, you shouldn't experience any staining. However, it's best to wear dark clothing until the product has fully dried.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Gives a natural, healthy skin tone.
  • Does not have a bad smell.
  • Dries fast.
  • Easy to apply.
  • Does not stain clothes.
Cons
  • Can be super drying and cause breakouts.
  • Color fades away quickly.
Bottom Line
This product is great for those who want a natural-looking tan without the bad smell and streaks. However, it may not work for everyone and can cause breakouts and dryness. It is important to use an application mitten and wash off properly to avoid turning orange.
Pros
  • Gives a natural-looking color
  • Forgiving if you miss a spot
  • Clean lotion smell
  • Easy to apply
  • Quick substitute for when you’re in a rush
Cons
  • Cheap pump design
  • Smell can be overpowering
Bottom Line
This self-tanning lotion is easy to apply, does not streak or transfer to clothing, and gives a natural-looking color. However, the pump design is cheap, the smell can be overpowering, and it may not get as dark as sunless tanning oil.
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
  • Natural looking color
  • No streaks
  • Protects from sunburn
  • Easy to apply
  • Highly buildable
Cons
  • Takes time to show results
  • Color may not suit all skin types
Bottom Line
Tan Physics is a highly buildable self-tanner that provides a natural-looking color without streaks. It may take time to show results and may not suit all skin types. It also has a strong smell that may cause skin irritation.
Pros
  • Gives a natural-looking tan
  • Easy to apply
  • No orange tint
  • Lasts long
  • Mitt covers all areas
Cons
  • Glove may be too small
  • Bottle size is small
Bottom Line
This self-tanner is easy to apply, gives a natural-looking tan, and lasts long. However, the glove may be too small and the bottle size is small. It is also important to moisturize after application.
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