How do self-tanners for fair skin work?

Most self-tanners for fair skin contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA). The active ingredient reacts with the outer layer of your skin, temporarily darkening it to mimic the appearance of a natural tan. "Usually, self-tanners work in medium/dark shades," says Cook, explaining that fair/medium is better for lighter complexions. "It will have a truer representation to your skin tone and look natural rather than fake."

How do you apply self-tanners for fair skin?

According to Cook, preparation is key. "Exfoliate so you have a completely fresh canvas to work from… Put moisturizer on all your drier areas—knees, ankles, elbows, wrists, and any other areas that seem to be drier—even if the tanner you are applying is a moisturizing one." Next, apply the product by massaging it into your skin, preferably with a mitt. "Once you have finished applying, I would highly recommend diluting the dry areas [with moisturizer] a second time," says Cook. "The less these areas look like you've tanned them, the better." Finally, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid unnaturally dark palms and buildup between your fingers.

How often should you use self-tanners for fair skin?

With pale skin, less is usually more, as you want to avoid accidentally overdoing it. Having said that, the ideal frequency of use depends on the formula. Some self-tanners work gradually and can be applied daily until you achieve the color you want, while others provide a bronze hue after one use and fade within a few days. In any case, Cook says to moisturize with a regular lotion every day. "It will help keep your tan looking fresher longer while also leaving your [color] more subtle so that removal won't be too hard."

The 16 Best Self Tanners for Fair Skin of 2024

Self-tanners we recommend for fair skin on a yellow background — Byrdie / Lecia Landis

No one should risk sunburn or hop into a tanning bed just to achieve a bronzy glow—especially the fair skin set. While the self-tanners of yesteryear had a reputation for looking like, well, self-tanner, today's formulas are a horse of a different color.

As global tanning expert, Jordan Annabel Cook puts it, "We are far too advanced now in the beauty world for anything fake to actually look fake." There are lotions, creams, mousses, and sprays, plus oils, drops, facial serums, and everything in between for creating a convincing sun-kissed look.

Most call on dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to temporarily deepen your skin tone, which sounds like a synthetic chemical but is usually naturally derived. But which products are best for pale complexions?

"It's always wiser to stick to the gradual developers and the lighter self-tanners when it comes to fair skin," Cook tells Byrdie. "They will give a much softer, natural glow to the skin, rather than an intense color change." We conducted hours of research on the best self-tanners for fair skin, looking at the formula type, its active ingredients, how easy it is to apply, and its longevity. We also looked at things like ease or difficulty of transfer onto your clothing. After consulting with a tanning expert, and narrowing down our top-rated picks, we landed on the following best in show.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer at Amazon ($9)

Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:

Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner at Amazon ($10)

Jump to Review

Best Lotion:

St. Moriz Gradual Tanning Lotion Medium at Amazon ($20)

Jump to Review

Best Pads:

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad for Body at Amazon ($46)

Jump to Review

Best Drops:

TAN-LUXE Illuminating Self-Tan Drops at Amazon ($60)

Jump to Review

Best for Face:

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops at Amazon ($38)

Jump to Review

Best With SPF:

Supergoop! Sunless Tan SPF 40 at Amazon (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best Oil:

Josie Maran Argan Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Oil at Amazon ($70)

Jump to Review

Best Clear:

Isle of Paradise Light Self Tanning Mousse at Amazon ($32)

Jump to Review

Best Overall

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse

St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Mousse

PHOTO:

Sephora

View on Ulta $38 at Amazon $44 at Sephora

What We Like

Easy to apply
Looks natural
Transfer-resistant
No self-tanning smell

What We Don't Like

Pricey
Mitt not included

St. Tropez reigns in the self-tanning market—and for good reason. Since its mid-90s launch, the brand's iconic Bronzing Mousse has been a go-to for achieving a sunless glow. And the clear water formula is a clutch for pale complexions.

Infused with naturally derived, vegan DHA, plus botanical extracts, and vitamin C, this self-tanning standby offers gradual, streak-free color, more even skin tone, and a natural glow from head-to-toe.

The rinse-free formula is easy to apply with a mitt (sold separately) and won't transfer onto your clothes or bedding. And thanks to St. Tropez's signature tropical scent, you won't end up with that dreaded self-tanning smell.

Type: Mousse | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, vitamin C | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What Our Testers Say

"It will give your skin an even, vibrant, streak-free look." — Leigh Weingus, Product Tester

Best Budget

Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer

PHOTO:

Amazon

$9 at Amazon $11 at Target $11 at Walmart

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Absorbs quickly
Minimal streaks

What We Don't Like

Strong scent

Read Full Review: Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Firming Moisturizer Review

A staple of the mid-aughts, Jergens Natural Glow has had a few iterations over the years, our favorite being the Wet Skin Moisturizer. Massage it into damp skin before hopping out of the shower, pat it dry before getting dressed, and you're good to go. No streaks, no mess, just a gorgeous glow.

Type: In-shower moisturizer | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone | Size: 7.5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer spread on the back of a hand and wrist — Byrdie / Lisa Patulny

Best Drugstore

Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner

PHOTO:

Amazon

$7 at Amazon $7 at Target $13 at Walmart

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Natural formula
Moisturizing

What We Don't Like

Small amount

Drugstore brands hold their own in the self-tanning sector. Case in point: Alba Sunless Tanner, a fast-absorbing plant-based formula that provides a gradual glow while moisturizing the skin with shea butter and natural oils.

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, shea butter, plant oils | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Lotion

St. Moriz Gradual Tanning Lotion Medium

St. Moriz Professional Gradual Tanning Lotion Medium

PHOTO:

Amazon

$19 at Amazon View on Vitacost

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Gradual color
Moisturizing

What We Don’t Like

Strong scent

"Fair skin should remain the fairest in all the land. A regular mistake is trying to change your skin color. Never pick up the product because it says 'dark'… We always want to enhance our look, not completely change it," says Cook. "St. Moriz Professional Gradual Tanning Lotion is beautiful for a gentle hydrating glow. Apply this every day until you are happy with the depth of color. Then, apply as often as you wish to keep your color."

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone | Size: 9.3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Pads

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad for Body

PHOTO:

Amazon

$46 at Amazon View on Drdennisgross.com

What We Like

Gently exfoliates
Looks natural
Dermatologist-developed

What We Don't Like

Pricey

Cook explains that exfoliation is crucial for achieving even color. With this in mind, we recommend the Glow Pads by Dr. Dennis Gross. They gently slough off dead skin and smooth uneven texture with AHAs and BHAs (alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids), then deliver a natural-looking tan with DHA.

Type: Pad | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid | Size: 8 pads | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Drops

TAN-LUXE Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

TAN-LUXE THE BODY Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

PHOTO:

Sephora

$60 at Amazon $60 at Sephora $60 at Ulta

What We Like

Mixes with moisturizer
Streak-free formula
No self-tanning smell

What We Don't Like

Pricey

We're also loving The Body from Tan-Luxe, an oil-based tincture offering customizable color. Just mix a few drops into your daily body lotion and massage it into your skin as you normally would. Want more color? Add another drop or two the next time.

Type: Liquid drops | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, raspberry seed oil | Size: 1.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Face

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops

PHOTO:

Ulta

$38 at Amazon $38 at Sephora $38 at Ulta

What We Like

Natural formula
Looks natural
Mimics vitamin D benefits

What We Don’t Like

Small amount

Drunk Elephant Sunshine Drops call on plant-based ingredients like cocoa extract and black currant oil to create a natural glow on your face, neck, and décolletage. They also contain chronocyclin, which mimics the benefits of vitamin D you get from the sun.

Type: Serum | Active Ingredients: Chronocyclin, black currant oil, cocoa extract | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best With SPF

Supergoop! Sunless Tan SPF 40

Supergoop! Healthy Glow Sunless Tan SPF 40

PHOTO:

Amazon

View on Amazon View on Supergoop.com

What We Like

Contains SPF
Buildable color
No self-tanning smell

What We Don't Like

Small amount

The whole point of self-tanner is to avoid baking in the actual sun, no? With this in mind, Supergoop Healthy Glow offers buildable bronzing with DHA¹ while safeguarding your largest organ with broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection.

Type: Spray | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Oil

Josie Maran Argan Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Oil

PHOTO:

Amazon

$70 at Amazon $39 at Sephora $39 at Dermstore

What We Like

Natural formula
Moisturizing
Absorbs quickly

What We Don’t Like

Pricey

Infused with pure argan oil, this nourishing self-tanning liquid quenches dry skin and smooths uneven texture. More to the point, it offers an instant hint of warmth, then gradually develops into a medium tan in a few hours.

Type: Oil | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, argan oil | Size: 4.3 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Clear

Isle of Paradise Light Self Tanning Mousse

PHOTO:

Amazon

$32 at Amazon $32 at Sephora $32 at kohls.com

What We Like

Clear formula
Absorbs quickly
Moisturizing

What We Don't Like

Mitt not included

To make sunless tanner look natural on fair skin, reach for a transparent formula, like Glow Clear from Isle of Paradise. The ultra-light whipped mousse starts as a colorless foam, disappears instantly, dries notably fast, then emerges hours later in the form of a golden glow.

Type: Mousse | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, plant oils, omega-3s | Size: 6.8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie Tip

The more your skin stays hydrated, the better your tan will look and last. Be sure to apply nourishing body creams, oils, or lotions on a daily basis so your skin looks smooth and supple and your tan is extended to its full potential.

Best Gradual

Vita Liberata Fabulous Self Tanning Lotion

Vita Liberata Fabulous Self Tanning Gradual Tan Lotion

PHOTO:

Amazon

View on Amazon $20 at Dermstore

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Transfer-resistant
No self-tanning smell

What We Don’t Like

Some reviewers note it streaks

Cook says, "If you [have] fair-to-medium skin, go for a gradual developing product." We're big fans of Vita Liberata Fabulous, a supremely creamy lotion that offers a hint of warmth and builds with continued use—extra points for the brand's DHA odor-eliminating technology.

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, marula oil, shea butter | Size: 6.8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Fast-Acting

Tanologist Self-Tan Water

Tanologist Express Tan Light Self-Tan Water

PHOTO:

Amazon

$7 at Amazon $20 at Ulta $18 at Walmart

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Works quickly
Transfer-resistant

What We Don’t Like

Strong smell
Mitt not included

Gradual formulas are ideal for light skin tones, but if you don't have time to waste, your best bet is Express Tan. This sunless tanning spray starts clear and develops into a bronze glow within about an hour.

Type: Spray | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone | Size: 6.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Spray

COOLA Organic Sunless Tan Dry Oil Mist

PHOTO:

Amazon

$48 at Amazon $46 at Dermstore $48 at Nordstrom

What We Like

Contains organic ingredients
Moisturizing
Transfer-resistant

What We Don't Like

Not long-lasting
Pricey

Coola's take on sunless tanner is this dry oil mist. Flaunting a concoction of sustainably sourced DHA, argan oil, and vitamin C, it pulls out all the stops to help you achieve a warm, dewy, healthy-looking glow.

Type: Spray | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, argan oil, vitamin C | Size: 3.4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Water

Tan-Luxe Hydrating Self-Tan Water

Tan-Luxe The Water Hydrating Self-Tan Water

PHOTO:

Amazon

View on Ulta $48 at Amazon $48 at Sephora

What We Like

Clear formula
Hydrating
Streak-free formula

What We Don’t Like

Pricey

Haven't tried tanning "water" yet? Allow us to introduce you to The Water. Containing organic DHA, raspberry seed oil, antioxidants, and aloe vera, this crystal-clear liquid promises deep hydration and sun-kissed color without streaks or irritation.

Type: Spray | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, raspberry seed oil, antioxidants, aloe | Size: 6.8 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best for Daily Use

Bondi Sands Gradual Tanning Milk

Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk

PHOTO:

Amazon

$21 at Amazon $21 at Ulta $22 at Target

What We Like

Replaces body lotion
Promotes even-toned skin

What We Don’t Like

Contains PEGs

Looking for something you can apply every day? This milky formula from Bondi Sands is moisturizing enough to replace your daily body lotion. In addition to DHA, it contains antioxidants like aloe vera and vitamin E to add moisture, soothe irritation, and promote more even-toned skin. The generously sized pump bottle is a nice bonus too.

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, aloe vera, vitamin E | Size: 12.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best With Mitt

Tarte Brazilliance PLUS + Self-Tanner with Mitt

PHOTO:

Ulta

View on Sephora $39 at Ulta $39 at Dermstore

What We Like

Ultra-moisturizing formula
Realistic results
No fake-tan smell

What We Don’t Like

Pricey
Contains PEGs

This ultra-moisturizing formula from Tarte leans on ingredients like squalane and aloe vera to hydrate the skin while creating a realistic-looking, just-back-from-vacation tan. Though the key ingredient is DHA, it promises not to leave you with that fake-tan smell. Best of all, it comes with a mitt to streamline the application process and prevent orange palms and streaky fingers.

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone, squalane, aloe vera | Size: 5.5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Final Verdict

The best self-tanner for fair skin is undoubtedly St. Tropez Bronzing Water Mousse, an ultra-lightweight, user-friendly formula that promises subtle, streak-free warmth without transferring it onto your clothes. For babes on a budget, we recommend Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer, which can be used in the shower and absorbs quickly with minimal streaks.

Meet the Expert

Jordan Annabel Cook is a global tanning expert and SFX (special effects) makeup artist who uses self-tanning products in all aspects of her work. In her several years in the industry, she has worked with well-known brands, such as St. Moriz, Urban Decay, and Mac. Previously, she volunteered to help burn victims cover their scars using makeup and other cosmetics.

What to Look for in a Self-Tanner for Fair Skin

Customizable Formulas

If you have fairer skin, Read suggests opting for customizable formulas, allowing you to either initially measure out your level of tan or gradually build up your color over time. “Tanning drops, express tan formulas, or gradual tan formulas are great, as you can measure your glow and decide your own level of tan,” he says. “I would advise you to start light first and then build it up. Less is more.”

By going this route, you’re less likely to go overboard and end up with a tan that’s either too dark or too orange. Our favorite drops are Tan-Luxe Illuminating Self-Tan Drops, but if you prefer a lotion, go with Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk. Want something you can use in the shower? Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer is your best bet.

Hydrating Formulas

Exfoliating before applying a self-tanner is crucial, which is why it’s also important to find a self-tanning formula that’s hydrating. This will not only enhance your overall glow by replenishing moisture to freshly exfoliated skin, leaving it soft and supple but can help prolong the length of your tan too.

Some of the best moisturizing formulas include St. Moriz Professional Tanning Lotion and Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner, which contain plant-derived hydrators like coconut oil and aloe vera.

2-in-1 Face Formulas

When it comes to facial tanners, Read suggests using products with 2-in-1 formulations that double as skincare. Drops, serums, and lotions are best for building up the color gradually (and avoiding a tan that’s either too orange or too dark), while ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants will pack in the skin benefits, leaving you with a natural-looking tan and a healthy, radiant glow.

One of the best options for the face is Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Bronzing Drops, a DHA-free formula that provides a gradual glow without making you look orange. But Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads work really well too.

FAQ

How do self-tanners for fair skin work?

Most self-tanners for fair skin contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA). The active ingredient reacts with the outer layer of your skin, temporarily darkening it to mimic the appearance of a natural tan.
"Usually, self-tanners work in medium/dark shades," says Cook, explaining that fair/medium is better for lighter complexions. "It will have a truer representation to your skin tone and look natural rather than fake."
How do you apply self-tanners for fair skin?

According to Cook, preparation is key. "Exfoliate so you have a completely fresh canvas to work from… Put moisturizer on all your drier areas—knees, ankles, elbows, wrists, and any other areas that seem to be drier—even if the tanner you are applying is a moisturizing one."
Next, apply the product by massaging it into your skin, preferably with a mitt. "Once you have finished applying, I would highly recommend diluting the dry areas [with moisturizer] a second time," says Cook. "The less these areas look like you've tanned them, the better." Finally, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid unnaturally dark palms and buildup between your fingers.
How often should you use self-tanners for fair skin?

With pale skin, less is usually more, as you want to avoid accidentally overdoing it. Having said that, the ideal frequency of use depends on the formula. Some self-tanners work gradually and can be applied daily until you achieve the color you want, while others provide a bronze hue after one use and fade within a few days.
In any case, Cook says to moisturize with a regular lotion every day. "It will help keep your tan looking fresher longer while also leaving your [color] more subtle so that removal won't be too hard."

Why Trust Byrdie?

Theresa Holland is a commerce copywriter specializing in cosmetics and lifestyle products. She interviewed a tanning expert for this story, compiling their product suggestions and expertise on the best formulations for pale complexions. Before landing on her final picks, she referenced several peer-reviewed articles and combed through the ingredients lists of numerous sunless tanners. From the above, she has personally tried St. Tropez, Jergens, St. Moriz, Dr. Dennis Gross, Tan-Luxe, and Drunk Elephant. Theresa covers skincare, makeup, haircare, and wellness products at Byrdie.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any self-tanners from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.