Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
The Best Self-Tanners That Won't Make You Look Like a Cheeto
These bronzing essentials make it easier than ever to boost your glow.
By Using one of the best self-tanners without going overboard is an art form requiring patience, a steady hand, and, of course, the right tools. An easy-to-use self-tanner or bottle of self-tanning drops makes it simple to maintain a faux glow (even cooler months)—without some of the potentially harmful UV damage you may experience while soaking up the sun.
"You want to look for a self-tanner that isn’t going to leave streaks or patching," New York City-based makeup artist Michela Wariebi tells BAZAAR.com. "I suggest applying with a glove to get the smoothest application. Using just your hands usually makes the coverage inconsistent," she advises.
Shop the Best Self-Tanners
To go from zero to bronze with just a few swipes (or spritzes), we've done the hard work for you and tracked down the most popular sunless tanners from St. Tropez, Coco & Eve, and Isle of Paradise, and more, which are beloved by experts, editors, and beauty enthusiasts alike.
The following formulas provide streak-free, glowy finishes that leave your skin looking and feeling extra supple—never awkwardly and unnaturally orange. Here, read through our short list of some of the best self-tanners worth shopping now, and find a new favorite for the ultimate year-round glow up.
Related: The 12 Best Self-Tanning Drops for Glowy, Bronzed Skin
St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse
Pros
- Amazon's Choice
Cons
If you, like me, have tested more than your fair share of self-tanners in the past to no avail, give this one a chance. It develops the most natural-looking color without streaks when applied with care (along with a handy tanning mitt). Over 10,000 Amazon reviewers agree, noting that it's the "best tanner ever," especially for those with fair skin.
Customer Review:
"Love this product!!!. Dries fast, no streaks, last almost a week and does not leave a strong scent. Be sure to exfoliate and shave prior to use." —JenniferMurray
| Product Type: | Mousse |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Golden |
| How to Apply: | Apply to an applicator mitt and blend evenly in circular motions. Wait at least 60 seconds for product to dry before getting dressed. |
Sol by Jergens Sunless Tanning Deep Water Mousse
Sol by Jergens Sunless Tanning Deep Water Mousse
Pros
- Streak-free
Cons
This dye-free, clear mousse applies like a plush cloud, and smells like a tropical vacation. Plus, its natural-looking glow is powered by Jergens, a brand we've been relying on for tanners and moisturizers for years.
Customer Review:
"I really like this product. The ease of application was a plus. The tan that developed was natural and the smell was pleasant. Will definitely buy again." —Mommaof25
| Product Type: | Mousse |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Olive |
| How to Apply: | For best results, apply with applicator mitt in circular motions on the skin, ensuring all areas are covered—no need to rinse off. Wait a few minutes for skin to dry prior to getting dressed. |
L'Oréal Paris Self-Tanning Water Mousse
Pros
- Streak-free
Cons
- Must allow between four to eight hours for color to develop ahead of showering
L'Oréal's Sublime Bronze checks all the boxes of a great self tanner: long lasting, streak-free, and lightweight, but it also happens super-hydrating and just makes your skin feel soft and plump.
Customer Review:
"A great self tanner that doesn't break the bank! It goes on clear, I found it spread better and didn't leave a residue if you use a tanning mitt, love the coconut scent!" —Cc_collections
| Product Type: | Mousse |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Natural |
| How to Apply: | Smooth a generous layer evenly into skin using an applicator mitt and circular motions until thoroughly absorbed. |
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Mousse
Pros
- Works in 60 seconds
Cons
- Tropical scent may be strong for some
Swipe this foamy mousse on just about any part of your body, and you'll get a unique shade that adapts perfectly to your individual skin tone. And as an added bonus, its formula dries down in 60 seconds flat.
Customer Review:
"After years of baking in the sun, I had completely given up on having any color during the summer. Enter this Instant Bronzer. It went on way easier and much more even than the lotion. The color is fantastic. I can’t even tell it’s not a real tan. No streaks, no blotchy hands or knees. Just a perfect fake tan. I finally have a way to have some summer color without killing my skin." —LLC
| Product Type: | Mousse |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Light Bronze |
| How to Apply: | Apply to an applicator mitt and blend into skin with circular motions. |
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Bundle
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Bundle
Pros
- Fast-drying
Cons
Here's a three-piece set from the pros at Coco & Eve that includes their non-sticky self-tanner for body—featuring a mango and guava scent—along with a tanning mitt and kabuki brush for expert blending. And since the tanner is developed with a green-grey base, you definitely won't have to worry about looking orange-y once you're done applying it.
Customer Review:
"Great bundle package. Amazing coverage and color. No streaks. The brush is fantastic for the hands and face. The quality is amazing and doesn’t smell like awful fake tan normally does. Would recommend 10/10." —OliviaF
| Product Type: | Foam |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Honey Bronze |
| How to Apply: | Apply to dry skin after hair removal, and blend with included applicator mitt. |
The Express Water
The Express Water
Pros
- Develops quickly
- Clear formula
Cons
- Mist can be hard to evenly apply
When you're in a pinch, try this self-tanner that creates a bronzed glow in just 30 minutes. Even better: It applies clear and won't rub onto your clothes.
| Product Type | Water Mist |
|---|---|
| How to Apply | 30 minutes = a sun-kissed glow 2 hours = a golden tan 3 hours = a dark bronze |
Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Oil Mist
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- Best for those already experienced with self-tanner
This mist is part body oil, part mist, and leaves the most subtle glow behind on your arms, legs, and more. Since it features plumping and hydrating actives like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin, along with a moisturizing oil base, you can seamlessly massage it into your skin without the threat of streaking.
Customer Review:
"My favorite tanner ever!! Makes me SO dark within hours (a natural, dark tan) and lasts for days. I am obsessed and will never switch to a different one!" —Vanxox
| Product Type: | Oil Mist |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Light; Medium; Dark |
| How to Apply: | Exfoliate and moisturize dry areas before application, next, shake well and mist until your skin is totally saturated. Leave your hands and feet until last, then blend with a tanning mitt or hand in sweeping motions. |
Bioderma Photoderm Self-Tanner
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
This next-level self-tanner from Bioderma is formulated to adapt to your skin type, but is especially ideal for sensitive skin. Since this spray contains a multi-position diffuser, it's easy-to-apply, and not necessary to spread, unlike many traditional tanners.
| Product Type: | Mist |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Natural |
| How to Apply: | To create a tan, use Photoderm Autobronzant once a day during three days, then once every two days. To maintain a tan, use the product once a week. Spray it evenly on dry and clean skin, holding the bottle 20 centimeters from the skin. |
Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel
Pros
- Features a plant-based formula
Cons
For a natural-looking glow for both face and body, this buildable, quick-drying gel is formulated with glycerin to leave skin feeling baby smooth after it's applied.
Customer Review:
"I absolutely love this product! It’s the best self tan I’ve ever used. It leaves my skin feeling soft without being oily or sticky. It gives my skin a soft, natural grow. It’s not orange or overbearing at all." —Gliz20
| Product Type: | Gel |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Natural |
| How to Apply: | Apply evenly to your face and body using circular motions with the palm of your hand. Avoid your eyebrows, hairline and the soles of your feet. Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after use. |
Bondi Sands Pure Self Tan Foaming Water
Bondi Sands Pure Self Tan Foaming Water
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
Cons
- Must be left on skin for at least six hours
Free of fragrances and dyes, and safe for sensitive skin, this tanning water from Bondi Sands is available in two shade options for easy customization. Plus, it features ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E to boost radiance and hydration as you wear it.
Customer Review:
"Easy to apply and gives a good color, not orange and no streaks. It's easy to build if you want it to be darker. Dries fast and doesn't transfer on clothes, and doesn't really have any type of smell. Just remember to exfoliate so you get the best results." —Haley
| Product Type: | Foam |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Light/Medium; Dark |
| How to Apply: | For an even, streak free tan, ensure your skin is clean, exfoliated and free of any moisturizers. Next, squeeze tanner directly onto skin. Use an application mitt in sweeping motions to blend into legs, arms, and body. Use remaining residue on mitt for elbows and knees. Wait until skin is touch-dry before dressing. |
Kora Organics Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion
Kora Organics Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Natural-looking finish
Cons
- May not be intensive enough for those looking for a darker bronze
Created by supermodel Miranda Kerr, this self-tanning lotion from Kora Organics makes it easy to get a buildable bronze without going overboard. And since it contains skin replenishing ingredients like noni extract, rosehip- and sea buckthorn oils, you can build your skin's hydration while boosting its glow.
Customer Review:
"Beautiful and natural color. It dries quickly and does not leave a smell or sticky feeling." —Rachel W.
| Product type: | Body lotion |
|---|---|
| Tint shade: | Natural |
| How to apply: | For best results, exfoliate regularly before application. Apply to clean, dry skin in an upward circular motion ensuring to cover all areas for an even application. Wash hands after application. Allow to dry before getting dressed and four to eight hours before getting wet. Use daily to build color towards desired shade. |
St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist
St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist
Pros
- Vegan
Cons
- Natural finish may be too light for some
A tanning mist you only have to spray once might seem too good to be true. But we're here to tell you this unicorn product does exist—and St. Tropez makes it. While it may look like your ordinary face mist, this version is infused with natural tanning agents, like mandarin orange extract, to give you the golden glow of your dreams.
Customer Review:
"I get so many compliments about my glowing tan skin. And it's all from this product! I use about two times a week for a sun-kissed glow!" —Angel
| Product Type: | Mist |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Natural |
| How to Apply: | Close eyes and spray five to six full pumps to clean dry skin, and evenly over face and neck. |
Beauty by Earth Self Tanner
Pros
- Can be used on face and body
Cons
Over 20,000 glowing reviews (get it?) on Amazon can't be wrong: Beauty by Earth is one of our top organic and natural self-tanner picks. It's made with aloe vera and argan oil to leave skin glowing, healthy, and hydrated.
Customer Review:
"This tanner is amazing! I have gone through a number of self tanning products and this one by far is the most moisturizing. It still has a self tanner smell but it’s not too bad. I am very pale most of the year and this gave a very natural looking tan." —Olivia
| Product Type: | Lotion |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Fair/Medium; Medium/Dark |
| How to Apply: | Starting with half a teaspoon of product, apply to an applicator mitt and blend in circular motion on body. For face application, apply to palms first. |
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Intense Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Face
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Intense Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Face
Pros
- Includes skincare benefits
Cons
- May be irritating for sensitive types
One of my favorite exfoliating and blackhead-removing face pads also happens to provide one of the best faux tans. They use a combination of micro-encapsulated DHA, soy proteins, plus, alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids to deliver a streak-free, natural-looking finish.
Customer Review:
"Touch of color mixed with a exfoliator. Great product, easy to use." —Smallchest
| Product Type: | Facial Pads |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Natural, glowy |
| How to Apply: | Apply evenly to clean, dry skin in circular motions. To customize color, increase the number of repetitions to achieve a deeper glow. |
Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
If you're looking for a more bespoke experience, this tanning booster will be your jam. Plus, it couldn't be simpler to use: add the drops to your normal moisturizer, serum, or face oil for a more radiant, natural-looking tone.
Customer Review:
"This is my holy-grail product. It doesn’t transfer and you can choose how dark you want to go. The smell is not bad and it leaves me perfectly glowed. It will only stain your hands if you don’t wash them afterwards. I mix the drops with a regular moisturizer, not directly on my skin. I love this product so much!" —Applecorps
| Product Type: | Face Oil |
|---|---|
| Tint Shade: | Light/Medium; Medium/Dark |
| How to Apply: | Mix one to four drops to your usual moisturizer, serum, or face oil and apply directly. |
What should I look for in the best self-tanners?
In addition to skin-friendly ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane, many of the best self-tanning products are available in a range of color options that make it easy to achieve a subtle, natural glow or a deeper bronze skin tint.
How should I apply self-tanner?
As there are a number of options available for a seamless, sunless tan—from individual wipes to frothy foams—how you apply your self-tanner of choice depends on which version you opt for. Regardless of the method you choose, professionals suggest prepping your skin with thorough exfoliation first. Also, keep in mind that the longer a tanner is left on, the darker your skin will become. After you tan, keep your skin hydrated for best results.
Can I use the same tanning products for both my face and body?
Unless a product clearly states that its formula is ideal for face and body, we advise following its specific directions to avoid skin irritation, discoloration, or an unnatural look.
Meet the Experts
- Michela Wariebi is a professional makeup artist based in New York City.
Why trust Harper's BAZAAR?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
TSA-Friendly Beauty Essentials to Shop on Amazon
Get Vacation Vibes with the Best Coconut Perfumes
13 Toiletry Bags to Keep Your Routine Organized
The 16 Best Oil-Free Moisturizers
