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10 Best Self Tanners

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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#6
Bondi Sand
37% OFF
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£11
37% off
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Garnier Skinactive Body Garnier Summer Body Gradual Self Tan Moisturiser Light, Hydrating Tanning Lotion for a Glowing Sunkissed Tan 250 ml

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,383
Color Guide
Formulation
Scent
Color Guide
Delivers a lovely, natural sun-kissed glow that enhances skin with a healthy, golden tan.
Formulation
Absorbs quickly and applies evenly, ensuring a streak-free finish when applied carefully.
Scent
Has a pleasant, mild scent that fades quickly, making it comfortable for sensitive noses.
Longevity
Fades naturally over time without staining fabrics, maintaining a neat appearance.

The Garnier Summer Body Gradual Self Tan Moisturiser is a gentle, light tanning lotion that builds a subtle sun-kissed glow over time, making it a good choice for those new to self-tanning or who prefer a natural look. It’s designed as a moisturiser, so it hydrates your skin for 24 hours while gradually adding colour. The lotion is fast-absorbing and applies evenly, which helps avoid streaks or patchiness often seen with self-tanners. It has a pleasant apricot scent, which is mild and less likely to offend sensitive noses compared to some tanning products.

Suitable for very light skin tones, it may not provide a deep tan for darker complexions but works well for a light, healthy radiance. The formula is free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, and is vegan and cruelty-free, making it a safer, more ethical option. Dermatologically tested, it is also appropriate for sensitive skin types. However, since it’s a gradual tanner, it takes a few days of consistent use to see a noticeable tan, which might not suit those seeking quick results. Also, it’s mainly targeted at normal skin, so very dry or oily skin types might need additional care.

While it offers hydration and a gentle tan, users looking for a deeper or faster colour may find it too subtle. This self-tanner is a great option if you want an easy-to-use, hydrating, and natural-looking gradual tan that’s kind to your skin and the environment.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,383
Color Guide
Formulation
Scent
Color Guide
Delivers a lovely, natural sun-kissed glow that enhances skin with a healthy, golden tan.
Formulation
Absorbs quickly and applies evenly, ensuring a streak-free finish when applied carefully.
Scent
Has a pleasant, mild scent that fades quickly, making it comfortable for sensitive noses.
Longevity
Fades naturally over time without staining fabrics, maintaining a neat appearance.
#2

Tan-Luxe THE FACE Self Tanning Drops, Light/Medium (10 ml) Add Tanning Drops to Skin Care for Custom Face Tan, Cruelty Free & Vegan

9.1  score

10% OFF
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£13.5
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Rating
9.1
Formulation
Color Guide
Formulation
To achieve the desired effect, at least four drops are necessary, which may lead to quick use of the bottle.
Color Guide
Achieving a natural-looking and subtle color is easy with these drops.

The Tan-Luxe THE FACE Self Tanning Drops offer an innovative approach to achieving a natural-looking tan by integrating seamlessly with your existing skincare routine. These drops allow for a customized tanning experience; the more drops you add to your moisturizer, serum, or oil, the deeper the tan you achieve. This flexibility makes it a great option for those looking for a tailored approach to self-tanning. Key beneficial ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Raspberry Seed Oil, and Vitamin E help in keeping your skin hydrated and luminous, which is particularly advantageous for those prone to dry skin.

The drops develop a radiant glow in just 2 to 4 hours, which is relatively quick, and are designed to suit all skin types. They are particularly compatible with lighter skin tones that have red or pinkish undertones. On the downside, the product's small size (10 ml) might not last long if used frequently, potentially making it a more expensive option over time. Also, while the product is vegan and cruelty-free, it does contain alcohol and fragrance, which could be a concern for those with sensitive skin.

The scent is noted to be pleasant, but individual preferences may vary. The self-tanner is designed to minimize imperfections and even out skin tone, but results may differ based on individual application techniques and skin types. These drops are best suited for those who prefer a gradual, personalized tan that integrates with their skincare routine without adding extra steps. However, users should be mindful of the ingredient list if they have specific skin sensitivities.

Rating
9.1
Formulation
Color Guide
Formulation
To achieve the desired effect, at least four drops are necessary, which may lead to quick use of the bottle.
Color Guide
Achieving a natural-looking and subtle color is easy with these drops.
#3

TAN-LUXE THE GRADUAL Illuminating Self Tan Lotion (250 ml) Self Tanning Skin Care with Gradual Glow, Cruelty Free & Vegan

9.1  score

28% OFF
Available on
£18
28% off
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Rating
9.1
Formulation
Development Time
Formulation
So easy to apply, a little goes a long way. Moisturizing and smells delightful.
Development Time
Woke up with an even, light tan - no stained clothes or bedding either!

The TAN-LUXE THE GRADUAL Illuminating Self Tan Lotion is a reliable option for those seeking a natural, bronzed glow. Its hybrid formulation of lotion and oil ensures a smooth and nourishing application that benefits all skin types. One standout feature is the absence of the typical self-tan odor, making it a more pleasant choice for users sensitive to strong scents.

The product begins to develop within an hour, allowing for quick results, and can be applied daily to build a customized tan that suits individual preferences. This flexibility makes it suitable for both beginners and seasoned users of self-tanners. Additionally, its vegan and cruelty-free credentials will appeal to ethically minded consumers.

However, it's important to note that while the product claims to be streak-free, some users may still experience uneven application if not applied carefully. The clear color of the lotion might also make it challenging for users to see where they have already applied the product, potentially leading to missed spots. Despite these minor drawbacks, the TAN-LUXE THE GRADUAL is highly rated by customers and remains a solid choice for achieving a gradual, natural-looking tan. The 250 ml bottle provides a good amount of product for regular use, and its lightweight formula ensures it absorbs quickly without feeling greasy.

Rating
9.1
Formulation
Development Time
Formulation
So easy to apply, a little goes a long way. Moisturizing and smells delightful.
Development Time
Woke up with an even, light tan - no stained clothes or bedding either!

Buying Guide for the Best Self Tanners

Choosing the right self-tanner can be a game-changer for achieving a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. The key to finding the perfect self-tanner lies in understanding your skin type, desired outcome, and the formulation that works best for you. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a self-tanner.
FormulationSelf-tanners come in various formulations such as lotions, mousses, sprays, and gels. The formulation you choose can affect the ease of application and the final result. Lotions are hydrating and good for dry skin, mousses are lightweight and dry quickly, sprays are convenient for hard-to-reach areas, and gels are cooling and suitable for oily skin. Consider your skin type and application preference when choosing a formulation.
Color GuideA color guide is a tint in the self-tanner that helps you see where you have applied the product, ensuring an even application. This is particularly useful for beginners. If you are new to self-tanning, look for products with a color guide to avoid streaks and missed spots. Experienced users might prefer clear formulas that develop over time.
Development TimeDevelopment time refers to how long it takes for the self-tanner to fully develop its color on your skin. This can range from a few hours to overnight. If you need a quick tan for an event, choose a fast-developing product. For a more gradual and natural-looking tan, opt for a product that develops over several hours or overnight.
LongevityLongevity indicates how long the tan will last before it starts to fade. This can vary from a few days to over a week. If you want a tan that lasts longer, look for products that promise extended wear and are water-resistant. Keep in mind that moisturizing your skin regularly can help prolong the life of your tan.
Skin Tone CompatibilitySelf-tanners come in different shades to match various skin tones, from light to dark. Choosing the right shade is crucial for a natural-looking tan. If you have fair skin, opt for a light to medium shade. Medium to olive skin tones can go for medium to dark shades. Darker skin tones can choose deep or ultra-dark shades. Always start with a lighter shade if you are unsure and build up the color gradually.
IngredientsThe ingredients in a self-tanner can affect its performance and how it interacts with your skin. Look for products with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid if you have dry skin. If you have sensitive skin, choose self-tanners that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and parabens. Reading the ingredient list can help you avoid potential allergens and irritants.
ScentSome self-tanners have a distinct smell due to the active ingredient DHA (dihydroxyacetone). If you are sensitive to scents, look for products that are labeled as 'fragrance-free' or have a pleasant, mild scent. This can make the tanning experience more enjoyable and prevent any lingering odors.