Best Natural Looking Self Tanners

Updated 06/01/2023

So what are the best natural-looking self-tanners?

The quick answer is:

Self-tanning items have tagged along the way, with brands producing streak-free products and tweaking their DHA formulation. which is the thing that is responsible for safely darkening your skin, so you can accomplish the brilliant golden-brown characteristic look of a natural tan?

And keeping in mind that it feels hazardous to venture out with a product you’ve never tried. we’ve collected and listed for you the ultimate list of self-tanning products that are guaranteed to produce a wonderful natural-looking tan without causing damage to your skin.

There’s nothing that quite matches the wonderful glow of summer. But when you can fake it without harming your skin by laying in the sun or a tanning stall, it is all the better. If you do ever get caught out and get sunburned you can make some great homemade after-sun lotion to soothe your skin. I have written the post here. Enter the top-recommended self-tanning creams, sprays, and mousses ahead.

8 reasons to use natural-looking self-tanning products

1. A Self Tan Makes You Look Healthier
2. A Self Tan Can Help Conceal Skin Imperfections
3. Improve confidence
4. Much Safer Than The Sun and Tanning Beds
5. Quick results
6. Self Tanning Products Are Easy To Use
7. You won’t get Sagging, wrinkled, spotty skin with fake tan
8. Tanning products help to conceal cellulite

What natural looking self-tanners are better, mousse or lotion?

It all depends on the person using it. Mousse drys quicker than the lotion. mousse also seems easier to use with a self-tanning mitt. Lotion does feel like it adds more of a moisturizing effect and is less dry. If I had to choose it would be lotion.

A few notes before you self-tan

Self-tan in a well-ventilated room, and ensure that your nose and mouth are covered when you’re utilizing a spray. It is very important to exfoliate your skin first before applying anything on your body so as to get rid of the dust and grime that’s sitting on your face and body.

Applying tanning solutions without exfoliation can cause uneven tanning, dark spots, and blemishes. Do not use a moisturizer before using a tanning product. Moisturizers are known to create a barrier on the top layer of your skin thus preventing the tanner from interacting with your skin and effectively tanning it.

This might result in uneven tans and even discolouration. You can put cream on your hands and feet, which is a great practice since it assists with blending. Read your tanning product manual that comes bundled with the box to figure out how long you should wait before taking a shower.

Wondering what’s the best natural-looking self-tanner for your face?

You’ll find plenty of suggestions in our list below that are effective self-tanners for your face. Please make sure that when you buy the tanner of your choice, it is mentioned in the body of the packaging that it is meant for ‘face’ or ‘face and body’.

Once the tanner is applied, the most crucial part is the aftercare to make sure you keep the tan and no discolouration occurs. To what extent will your self-tan last? The outcomes should last about seven days, and exfoliating first will help your tan last a little bit more. Continue perusing our top recommended self-tanners to look sun-kissed in minutes for any event!

My recommendations

Xen-Tan Fresh Tanning Mousse

This product from Xen-Tan is an absolute winner when it comes to overall satisfaction with self-tanning products.

It is non-messy and excels in its foolproof formula and splotch-free look. It’s super easy to apply to the body and it has a wonderful aroma of grapefruit that is refreshing yet not too overpowering. Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Fake Bake Flawless Self Tan Liquid

Flawless has over 4000 five-star reviews on the e-commerce website Amazon which alone is a testament to its quality and recognition. It penetrates evenly onto your top layer of skin and does so quickly without any special requirements. Also, it doesn’t rub off on your clothes or sheets like so many others that you can get from the market.

Pros

• The non-sticky formula dries quickly in 4-6 hours
• One of the biggest names in self-tanning
• Used by millions worldwide

Xen-Tan – Q and A

Does it cover freckles or will it make them stand out? – Customers that have freckles have never referred to it being a problem. They will just stay the same.

If you get it on clothes will it wash off? – It will wash off clothes etc. But it does depend on how heavy you put it on and how long you applied it.

Do you need to use any products before or after? – No, just make sure you have a bath or shower about an hour beforehand, and afterwards. This gives you optimum results.

Does it wash off or is it permanent? – It’s permanent, it washes off in around 5 days.

How long do I have to wait before putting on clothes? – You need to wait 60 minutes but all fake bake products are best when left on overnight.

It is very easy to apply and can last a long time if the procedures printed on the back of the packaging are followed. – The Fake Bake Flawless Self Tan Liquid is especially recommended for people who are looking to self-tan for the first time.

The application of the solution is very simple, it dries in minutes and results in an even and natural-looking tan that turns your skin golden brown (and not orange).

It is also very low maintenance which means you don’t have to worry about special rules to keep in mind when you’re up and about in your day. Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner Lotion

Most people who use the Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner Lotion will describe their tan as natural and even looking. Self-tanners can be a little bit of a risk when you are overly Caucasian but this product eliminates all such risks and rewards you with a beautiful even looking toasty glow that you’ll absolutely love.

If you have sensitive skin, find a tanner for you can be difficult that doesn’t contain chemicals and won’t interfere with the health of your skin. The Alba Botanica is an absolute killer in that regard. It gives you a quick toasty colour with zero shades of orange that is easily absorbed on application and is very gentle on your sensitive skin.

Add to that its rock-bottom pricing and you just can’t find a better self-tanning solution than this!

Pros

• Non-streaking formula.
• NO: parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances
• 100% vegetarian

Alba Botanica – Q and A

Is this product tested on animals? – It is not tested on animals.

How long will 4oz last if used on the whole body? – If you use it on your whole body, it should last quite a long. Let’s say you put it on every 5 days, it would last at least 4-5 months.

Does this product contain DHA? – Yes, this product does contain the tanning ingredient DHA.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Tan Towel Self-Tan Towelette

There are multiple reviews on Amazon that attests to the fact that the Tan Towel Self-Tan Towelette is a product worth considering when thinking about self-tanning solutions. These wipes are ridiculously easy to use and don’t create a mess. It’s super effective and gives you a perfect bronzer look right from the first application.

If you are worried about sprays or don’t want to deal with lotions because of their specific instructions, this is a great option to consider. These will never steak your skin like a spray might and are light enough for you to layer on every day.

The outcome is very natural and will give you the perfect sun-glow you always wanted. With this, you will never need a tanning machine.

Pros

• Dries within seconds and is non-staining
• Tan appears within 2-4 hours and lasts up to 7 days
• Awards including Glammy Award 2012, NewBeauty Award 2013,2014 and 2015

Tan Towel – Q and A

How many towels would it take if you want to use it head to toe? – For most people. One full-body Towel or two half-body towels should do the trick.

Do you get a tan quickly or does it take days? – 2 days to get a light tan. No streaks or smell.

Does it stain the palms of your hands? – Like all tanning products, it’s important to wash your hands after you apply the tan towel to avoid stained palms.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse

We were impressed by how easy the St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse is to use when compared to other tanners that come in a spray bottle. It is easy to apply and the results are instant, thus giving you a better idea as to where to rub more to get an even blend.

It dries really fast and the solution on your skin does not look like a tanner at all. The St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse doesn’t come off easily, even if you go to sleep with it on. Tan lasts about a week on average although regular use might get you a little longer.

Pros

• Dries in 60 seconds
• Ultra-hydrating for 24 hours with even fade
• No self-tan smell

St Tropez – Q and A

How many uses will you get from an 8 oz bottle?? – An 8 oz bottle lasted for 7 months with regular use.

Does the product come with the mitt? – No, you have to buy the mitt separately. Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Does it stain clothing? – Yes, it washes out if stained.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer

If you want a tanner for yourself that produces a natural, healthy-looking tan without being too labour-intensive in the application. The Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer might be the perfect self-tanner solution for you.

It is unlike any other on the list so far since it takes about two days for any colour to even appear and it goes away just as fast. But the look and glow it produces look 100% natural. This is great for first-time users since there is no way you can screw it up and even if you do, it doesn’t look bad.

It gives your face a hint of colour that doesn’t look fake while hydrating your skin at the same time. It works great even if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin and using this won’t cause a breakout.

Pros

• Natural Glow moisturizer includes broad-spectrum UVA and UVB
• Oil-Free
• Great price

Jergens Natural Glow – Q and A

How long does the colour last? – It lasts for about two days. It really does take time for it to start working if you put it on the day before you will probably see good colour the next day. 

Can you wear this under make-up? – Yes definitely. use it as my daily moisturizer.

Does this turn your face orange? – No, it won’t turn our face orange. Just be careful on feet, heels, knees & elbows

How long does the tube of lotion last if applying it daily or every other day? – Should last 5 to 6 weeks if used on the entire face and neck.

Is this scented or non-scented? – It has a very light scent.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Golden Star Beauty Anti-Ageing Sunless Tanning Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

If you are looking for a product that will bronze your face without you having to spray chemicals onto your skin, we have the perfect solution for you. This is an amazing self-tanner that produces a natural look each time without streaking or looking fake.

It also doesn’t have a strong smell like so many others have which makes its application and waiting time quite pleasant. It’s nice and light and doesn’t feel greasy on the skin at all. It dries quite fast and works like magic – all without blocking your pores!

Use this at night and wake up with the most beautiful glowing and hydrated skin. If you have sensitive skin and other products make your skin flare up, consider using this product. It has hyaluronic acid as one of its active ingredients and it gives you nice sun-kissed skin without any irritation.

It produces a light bronze tan that looks natural and also has anti-ageing properties that can help you with lines and wrinkles. And at the price that it is listed, it’s a steal!

Pros

• Tanner with added Hyaluronic Acid
• 100 % streak-free
• It doesn’t turn your skin orange

Golden Star – Q and A

What if you miss a spot? How would I cover it? – If you miss a spot, no need to worry! All you have to do is go over the missed spot and give it a few hours. You won’t be able to tell any difference.

Does this go on clearly? – It is a translucent serum – not like a bronzer.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Beauty by Earth Sunless Tanning Lotion for Face and Body

Not only does this product have more than 3000 five-star reviews on Amazon, but most people also rave about how wonderful the lotion is with its natural ingredients and light bronze glow. It uses organic ingredients to achieve the tan and is completely safe for your skin since it doesn’t use any external chemicals.

Also, the colour it produces is a perfect toasty blend that can be built upon if you want a darker tan. This is a great product to maintain your tan whilst also moisturizing your skin. It is highly recommended for people that are looking for chemical-free self-tanning options.

Pros

• This is Vegan
• cruelty-free
• Good for sensitive skin

Beauty by Earth – Q and A

Where is this product made? – It is made and packaged in the USA in our FDA-certified lab.

What shade of tan will this give? Light, medium or dark? – This tanning lotion is a buildable product. The first application will give you a light tan. If you desire a darker tan, simply reapply it again the following day and so on until you reach the desired color.

Once you have the colour you were after, simply reapply every 4-5 days to maintain the tan.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here

Skinerals Self Tanner

Reviewers on Amazon have consistently remarked that of all the products they tried, the Skinerals Self Tanner gave them an instant bronze look. The initial colour is instant and it keeps darkening over the next few hours after application.

It is good practice with this product to not apply too much and first let the colour develop. The tan looks real and will give you a beautiful beach glow without any orange shades. The tanner is odourless and doesn’t easily rub off on clothes which makes it ideal for application at night so that you can wake up the next morning with a gorgeous tan.

Pros

• Maintain your bronze skin for 7 days
• Quick to dry, and has a soft, pleasant smell
• 4 to 8 full body applications per bottle

Skinerals Self Tanner – Q and A

How long does it take to dry? – wait until completely dry (5-10 min) before dressing.

Can you apply daily? – Typically most people will apply, at night if possible, give it 8-10 hours then shower. Take a look at the results, if you wish to apply again you can.

Does this contain DHA? – Yes, all self-tanners contain FDA-approved DHA.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Mousse for Body

If it is your first-time self-tanning, consider using the Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Mousse for Body. It is super easy to apply and does not need any special aftercare to give you an even, beautiful tan. To use this, first exfoliate really well, applying lotion to the rough areas first and working your way in a circular motion.

Applying this solution with a tanning glove can make a world of difference since it helps spread the solution evenly without streaks. The Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Mousse for Body will give you a soft summer glow for about a week at a time.

The Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Mousse for Body gives you a natural glowing tan whether you are a first-time self-tanner or a pro and the result often is as impressive as the more expensive advanced tanners you might find in the market.

It is highly recommended for people with a light skin tone who want a dark tan that looks natural. Also, the colour doesn’t rub off, even after a shower which is a huge bonus!

Pros

• Dries in just 60 seconds
• Available for Light Bronze and Deep Bronze skin tones
• Great price

Jergens Natural Glow – Q and A

What colour is the darkest? Deep bronze or dark? – Deep bronze.

Is this item cruelty-free? – Yes.

Find the latest price on Amazon plus reviews here.

Below is a chart of all the details of the brands listed above with our ratings out of 5.

Brand.	Size.	Spray -Pump.	Offer subscription.	Rating out of 5.
Fake Bake Flawless Self Tan	6oz.	Spray.	Yes.	4.2
Xen-Tan Fresh Tanning Mousse.	6oz.	Pump.	No.	3.8
Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner.	4oz.	Cream.	No.	4.1
Tan Towel Self-Tan Towelette.	10.	Wipes.	No.	4.3
St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse.	8oz.	Mousse.	Yes.	4.3
Jergens Natural Glow Healthy.	2oz.	Cream.	No.	4.4
Golden Star Beauty.	2oz.	Pump.	No.	3.8
Beauty by Earth Sunless Tanning.	7.5oz.	Cream.	No.	4.3.
Skinerals Self Tanner.	8oz.	Pump.	No.	4.3
Jergens Natural Glow.	6oz.	Pump.	No.	4.3

Getting an even-looking natural tan

Getting an even tan with a mitt is the only way to go for me. I use this one, a St. Tropez Applicator Mitt. Order it on Amazon here.

Self-tanning myths you need to know

Myth number 1

Exfoliating beforehand can ruin your tan. The opposite is true, exfoliating removes dead skin cells from the top layer. This helps the tanning solution to soak in and even get a more even application.

Myth number 2

Moisturizing beforehand can create streaks. Again not true! Once you have exfoliated apply a generous amount of moisturizer. This will help to give your skin a uniform base for the tanning agent. The last thing you want is dry skin. Make sure you don’t miss your elbows and any other parts that tend to be dry like your knees.

Myth number 3

You shouldn’t use self-tanner if you’re pale. This is also a RUBBISH. But you do need to be more careful. Don’t overdo it, Start off with light colour and use it sparingly with a mitt. If you are using it for something important like a date I would do a test run a week before.

How to clean a tanning mitt.

Final thoughts

One thing I will say before I go is never let your skin burn in the sun. If you want a good-looking tan use the products mentioned above. I come across this article called here’s how much damage a really bad sunburn can do. You can read it here.

Related questions

Are self-tanners bad for you?

Tanning can be done in a multitude of ways. And while UV tanning should generally be avoided due to its medical risks, the tan achieved with sunless tanners, however, is much safer. The active ingredient in most sunless tanners is the colouring agent DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which combines with amino acids in the skin.