Ditch the sun damage and achieve a safe, achievable glow with self-tanner. "Using self-tanning products at home decreases your exposure to premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer caused by the sun and tanning beds," says celebrity esthetician and dermatological nurse Natalie Aguilar. "They contain an FDA-approved ingredient called dihydroxyacetone, commonly known as DHA, which temporarily tans the outermost layers of your skin.”
We listened to dermatologists and put 41 self-tanners to the test. We applied self-tanner to ourselves at home for two weeks, rating everything from how easy they are to use to how quickly they develop color. Combining our findings with expert advice, we picked the very best self-tanners to give you a beautiful tan, minus the sunburns and wrinkles.
Easy, mess-free application
Lightweight, blendable consistency
No transfer
Pleasant fresh scent
Could be longer-lasting
Tanning at home can be messy with plenty of room for error, whether during the application or while waiting for the formula to dry. We’re happy to report that this hydrating foam mousse from Tan Luxe has the easiest, cleanest application process. It goes on completely clear (so you don’t have to worry about it transferring while it's still drying), and gives you a glowy, natural shade that lasts about a week.
While testing this product, we loved that it had a smooth, blendable texture that glides on easily with the provided mitt. It dries in about 20 minutes without any streakiness or uneven patches. We were most impressed with how quick the drying process was—we applied before bed and had absolutely no transfer on white sheets. Upon waking, we saw noticeable results that didn’t look orange or unflattering. This formula also earns bonus points for its slightly floral, fresh scent that doesn’t linger.
Who It’s For
Easy application and a flattering result makes this our top pick for everyone.
Type: Mousse | Shades: 2 | Size: 6.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Non-toxic formula made with natural hydrating ingredient
Absorbs into the skin easily
Even coverage that doesn't streak
Strong scent
We also give high marks to this tanning mousse from Lux Unfiltered, which is formulated with natural plant extracts like sunflower and papaya to hydrate the skin while providing a natural color and glow. It looks very dark when it first comes out of the bottle, so we were surprised to see that it didn’t stain our hands or furniture. This is due to its thicker foam texture which stays put once applied (so no dripping or running). It has a lightweight consistency that melts into the skin effortlessly, making it easy to create a thin, even layer for a smooth application.
It comes with a soft, double-sided mitt that makes it even easier to buff out the product for better absorption and takes about 30 minutes to dry completely. We noticed results about four hours after the initial application, and we fell in love with the gorgeous color that resembled a subtle, after-summer tan. We also appreciated that it took only about 10-15 pumps of the formula to cover our entire body, so it definitely has great value. Our only con is that it has a pretty strong fragrance, which leans more chemical than blood orange. But, it didn’t last too long, so it didn’t bother us much.
Who It’s For
Hydrating plant extracts and a natural, glowy result make this self-tanner a great all-rounder.
Type: Mousse | Shades: 1 | Size: 6.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Instant, noticeable results
Tan lasts for days
Easy to apply
Sticky after initial application
If you’re in a pinch and need a tanner that’s fast and easy to find, look no further than this drugstore pick from Sol by Jergens. It develops pretty much as soon as you apply (and builds a little more after a few hours) and gives you a subtle glow with one application.
When we tried it for ourselves, we noticed that it had a light texture that blended evenly—so it only took about 20 minutes for the whole process. It did feel a little sticky afterward, but once it dried down there was no transfer on our sheets or pajamas. The end result was a flattering, splotch- and streak-free tan that lasted for days.
Who It’s For
For subtle bronzing on a budget, this drugstore pick is the way to go.
Type: Mousse | Shades: 2 | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Dries quickly
Can customize your specific color
Easy to apply
Vegan, clean ingredients
Has an unpleasant scent
If self-tanning mousses aren’t your thing, try a tanning mist instead, specifically this one from self-tan brand St. Tropez. It has a fine mist that dries quicker than most mousse formulas—so you do have to work quickly to blend it in—but the result is even and streak-free.
The coolest thing about this pick is that you can choose what shade works best for you (light, medium, or dark tan) with just one product. All you have to do is wait one, two, or three hours to shower based on how dark you want it to be. We also love that it dries down within a few minutes, but the shade still deepens for a couple of hours afterward. We had great color for about four to five days, and it faded evenly without any splotches. Our only complaint is that it has a strong smell.
Who It’s For
If you prefer the ease of a tanning mist, this customizable formula from St. Tropez works wonders.
Type: Mist | Shades: 1 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Add to any body moisturizer
Provides a subtle glow
Non-streaky formula
Have to use hands to apply evenly
Isle of Paradise makes the #1 best-selling face self-tanners, so it’s no surprise that their body drfhowops are just as excellent. Made with caffeine and oat extract to hydrate and brighten the skin, this easy-to-use formula only requires one step for a sun-kissed complexion. To use tanning drops, mix in to your body lotion and apply as normal, and then you’ll have a subtle but noticeable glow that lasts for about four days.
Since it blends in with your lotion, it absorbs pretty quickly without leaving a sticky residue. We found that it had absolutely no transfer, and faded evenly without any streaks. One thing to note is that since you have to apply with your hands, make sure to wash them thoroughly once you’re done.
Who It’s For
These drops would suit anyone who wants to streamline their beauty regimen.
Type: Drops | Shades: 1 | Size: 2.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Dries in 5 minutes
Buildable tan
Foolproof application
Not as easy to apply to hard-to-reach areas
You might think that using wipes to tan could be a little difficult, but these tanning towelettes make it so easy. Coming in three shades and in full-body as well as half-body sizes, they’re similar in texture to makeup wipes—except they’re saturated with a buildable tanning solution for bronzed, luminous skin.
When testing, we found the application process super simple—you just need to spread it around your body in circular motions, making sure that all areas are covered. It doesn’t leave a mess or drip as you’re applying, and it dries completely in about five minutes (making it perfect for when you’re on the go). We think it’s a great choice for maintaining an existing tan since the color is subtle and gradual, and it fades evenly without leaving streaks behind. The one downside is that tanning towelettes can be tricky to use on hard-to-reach areas, so be prepared to ask for help when doing your back.
Who It’s For
These super easy wipes are ideal for topping off a tan on the go.
Type: Wipes | Shades: 3 | Size: 5-50 pack of wipes | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Long-lasting color
Fades evenly and naturally
Blendable consistency
Can transfer while still drying
Express tans are a great choice for those who are looking for same-day results or don’t have the time to let it develop overnight. This bronzing mousse from Loving Tan dries completely down in about an hour and can be washed off after two hours, revealing a deep but natural-looking tan that lasts about a week and a half.
We love that it fades very naturally without leaving any streaks behind and that it comes in three shades to match multiple skin tones. We didn’t love that it can transfer before it’s completely dry, so it’s not a pick for you if you need to rush to get dressed.
Who It’s For
This express tanner is best for anyone who needs a last-minute bronze glow (but doesn’t need to run out the door).
Type: Mousse | Shades: 3 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Lasts up to seven days
Hydrates and soothes with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera
Quick-drying
Unpleasant scent
This long-lasting self-tanner gives you up to seven days of the perfect tan. When testing it out, we loved that it dried immediately—so there was no transfer at all. It also develops very quickly, so you can see the color pretty much as soon as you apply it (and add more as needed).
It’s formulated with a natural tanning agent called erythrulose, which can also reduce the appearance of scars and discoloration. You’ll also find hyaluronic acid and aloe vera in the formula to hydrate and soften the skin.The only thing we didn’t like was the strong scent.
Who It’s For
This foaming formula lasts an impressive seven days, making it perfect for those who love having a natural glow but don’t love the process of tanning itself.
Type: Foam | Shades: 1 | Size: 4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Great shade range
Can be washed off in an hour
Doesn't transfer while drying
Dries slowly
Self-tanner for Black women was previously neglected from the market, there are many formulas that can add a subtle glow to all tones, even amplifying melanin-rich skin. This express formula from Bondi Sands comes in four different shades, ranging from a natural cool tone to a warm golden tone. The brand conducted extensive research to find the best tanning actives and colors that complement each skin tone, so it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have a flattering, luminous finish.
When applying the product, we were happy to see that it didn’t drip when using the mitt, and it was a simple and clean process. While our skin still felt tacky for about an hour after applying, we loved that it didn’t transfer even when it wasn’t completely dry. The result was a radiant, golden color that lasted about five days.
Who It’s For
Four shade options make this self-tanner suitable for a wider range of skin tones.
Type: Foam | Shades: 4 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Long-lasting tan that fades naturally
Contains firming and anti-aging ingredients
Great scent
Product can absorb quickly while applying
Not only does this self-tanning formula give you a just-vacationed glow for around six days, but it also works to prevent signs of aging and cellulite. It’s formulated with antioxidant lotus extract to prevent the appearance of cellulite, anti-inflammatory virgin coconut oil for hydration, and vitamin A & E-rich mango butter to diminish the signs of aging like crepiness.
We love that it has a velvety smooth texture, and comes with a mitt that makes application easy. We saw a difference in our color right away and got noticeably darker after two hours—becoming a perfect deep bronze after a full day. The product absorbs pretty quickly, making it hard to apply evenly, so be sure to rub it in fast.
Who It’s For
The skincare benefits of this antioxidant-packed formula make it the ultimate selection for mature skin.
Type: Foam | Shades: 3 | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
No scent and colorless
No drying time
Contains hydrating ingredients
Doesn't last as long as other formulas
Even though many formulas on the market are scented, self-tanner smell—which is caused by the key ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA)—can be persistent. We’re happy to report that this one from Bondi Sands has no smell at all, making it perfect for both face and body. To apply, just add up to 12 drops to your normal moisturizer and massage in circular motions, making sure to spread evenly.
It’s completely colorless so it didn’t transfer onto our hands or make a mess while drying (which it does pretty much immediately). You can use this daily when you moisturize, but it lasts about three days without reapplication – not quite as long as some other formulas, but not bad.
Who It’s For
Does the smell of self-tanners turn you off? Then this fragrance-free option was made for you.
Type: Drops | Shades: n/a | Size: 1.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
What to Look for When Buying Self-Tanners
- Shades: All self-tanners aren’t made equal, which means one doesn’t fit all skin tones and types. Many formulas in the market only come in one shade, which doesn’t always work for those with medium or dark skin tones. When looking for a self-tanner, it’s best to choose one that is recommended for your specific skin tone or one that comes with multiple shade options.
- Undertones: You’ll also want to pay attention to the color base of the formula, which can determine what your end result will look like. “An olive-based tan will balance out red and pink in the skin, a golden tan will balance out olive in the skin, a violet brown tan will balance out yellow and olive in the skin,” says celebrity tanning artist Kristyn Pradas. “Using this method will prevent you from turning orange.”
- Hydrating Formula: “Look for hydrating ingredients that balance the dehydrating effects of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the active ingredient in self-tanner,” says esthetician Rhea Souhleris Grous. Many of our favorite picks include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and more to replenish the moisture levels in the skin.
- Development Time: The development time is how long it takes for a self-tanning product to show up on your skin, and the time can vary from product to product. There are express tans, which can develop in as little as two hours. Gradual formulas start developing within a couple of hours but show the best result after leaving it to develop overnight.
Why Trust Byrdie
Shannon Stubbs is a staff commerce updates writer at Byrdie, where she covers beauty. She’s frequently trying new skincare and makeup products to recommend the best of the best to readers.
Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer and regular contributor at Byrdie, where she covers skincare, makeup, and other color cosmetics. With expert insight from an esthetician and dermatological nurse in mind, she compiled insights from our in-house testers, pored over product specs, and rounded up our top picks for this story. Theresa has substantial experience researching, testing, and writing about beauty and lifestyle products. She has tried sunless tanning products from several of the above brands, including St. Moriz, St. Tropez, Jergens, Isle of Paradise, and Tan Towel.
Additional guidance was provided by: Rhea Souhleris Grous, a New York-based certified esthetician and a member of Byrdie’s Beauty & Wellness Review board; Kristyn Pradas, a professional airbrush-tanning artist and owner of Pradas Glow; Natalie Aguilar, a celebrity esthetician and a dermatological nurse.