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10 Best Face Self Tanners 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Beauty by Earth Self Tanner - USA Made with Natural & Organic Ingredients, Moisturizing Self Tanning Lotion with Aloe Vera & Coconut for a Natural Glow, Streak-Free Fake Tan, Medium to Dark

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,461
Formulation
Color Guide
Development Time

Most important from
24466 reviews

Formulation
The ingredients are clean and the product delivers a flawless, natural-looking tan after just one application.
Color Guide
It's important to rub the lotion in well around hands and feet to avoid staining, and washing hands after application helps prevent over-tanning.
Development Time
This tanner looks better than an airbrushed spray tan after just one use.
Longevity
Never turns the skin orange, even with regular use every three days.
Skin Type Compatibility
Perfect for naturally olive skin, providing a subtle, natural glow without making the skin look unnaturally dark.
Scent
The tanner smells great and any color that comes off on towels washes right out.
Ingredients
The ingredients are clean and the product delivers a flawless, natural-looking tan after just one application.

The Beauty by Earth Self Tanner is a face and body tanning lotion known for its natural and organic ingredients, making it a good choice for those who are mindful of what they apply to their skin. The inclusion of aloe vera and coconut ensures the product is moisturizing, which can be beneficial for those with dry skin.

It is designed to provide a natural glow without the unwanted orange hue, available in medium to dark shades to cater to various skin tones. The formulation is free from harmful additives like sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

The application process is straightforward, with the product going on clear to prevent streaks and stains on clothing or sheets. One of its strengths is the long-lasting result, which can maintain a tan for several days with proper care. Additionally, it is fragrance-free, which could be a plus for those sensitive to strong scents but might be less appealing for those who enjoy a scented product.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,461
Formulation
Color Guide
Development Time

Most important from
24466 reviews

Formulation
The ingredients are clean and the product delivers a flawless, natural-looking tan after just one application.
Color Guide
It's important to rub the lotion in well around hands and feet to avoid staining, and washing hands after application helps prevent over-tanning.
Development Time
This tanner looks better than an airbrushed spray tan after just one use.
Longevity
Never turns the skin orange, even with regular use every three days.
Skin Type Compatibility
Perfect for naturally olive skin, providing a subtle, natural glow without making the skin look unnaturally dark.
Scent
The tanner smells great and any color that comes off on towels washes right out.
Ingredients
The ingredients are clean and the product delivers a flawless, natural-looking tan after just one application.
#2

Jergens Natural Gradual Glow Bundle Pack: Daily Moisturizer +Firming 7.5fl oz and SPF20 Face Moisturizer 2fl oz, Medium to Tan

Rating
9.6
Formulation
Color Guide
Development Time

Most important from
41621 reviews

Formulation
The lotion is forgiving and streak-free, making it easy to apply without worry of mistakes.
Color Guide
Delivers a very pretty, natural light brown glow that builds gradually without any orange tint.
Development Time
Color develops subtly over about a week, perfect for those who prefer a controlled, realistic tan.
Longevity
Maintains the tan well for a couple of showers before needing reapplication.
Skin Type Compatibility
Works especially well for fair to medium skin tones, enhancing a natural sun-kissed look.
Scent
The scent is mild and pleasant, with no strong tanning odor lingering after application.

The Jergens Natural Gradual Glow Bundle offers a practical solution for those looking to achieve a gentle, natural-looking tan on both face and body. This set includes a 2 oz face moisturizer with SPF 20 and a 7.5 oz firming body lotion, both designed for medium to tan skin tones. The face moisturizer doubles as a self-tanner and daily skin hydrator while providing sun protection, which is a nice plus for everyday use. The gradual tanning effect develops within about a week, allowing for a controlled and subtle color build-up rather than a sudden or artificial look. The lotion is suitable for all skin types and is free from parabens, which appeals to those concerned about ingredient safety.

Another strength is the formulation's added benefits: collagen, elastin, and green tea help reduce cellulite and firm the skin, which is somewhat unique in this category. The scent is generally mild and pleasant, not overpowering, which many users appreciate in self-tanners. On the downside, because the tan builds gradually, it may not satisfy those seeking a quick, noticeable color change before an event. Also, the product targets medium to tan skin tones specifically, so it might not be ideal for very fair or very deep skin colors looking for a perfect shade match. The longevity of the tan is typical for gradual tanners—lasting several days but requiring regular application to maintain the glow.

This bundle is well suited for anyone wanting a low-maintenance, everyday self-tanning option with added skincare benefits and sun protection, especially if they prefer gradual color development rather than instant results.

Rating
9.6
Formulation
Color Guide
Development Time

Most important from
41621 reviews

Formulation
The lotion is forgiving and streak-free, making it easy to apply without worry of mistakes.
Color Guide
Delivers a very pretty, natural light brown glow that builds gradually without any orange tint.
Development Time
Color develops subtly over about a week, perfect for those who prefer a controlled, realistic tan.
Longevity
Maintains the tan well for a couple of showers before needing reapplication.
Skin Type Compatibility
Works especially well for fair to medium skin tones, enhancing a natural sun-kissed look.
Scent
The scent is mild and pleasant, with no strong tanning odor lingering after application.
#3

Tanning Lotion Self Tanner - USA Made with Natural and Organic Ingredients Non Toxic Sunless Browning Lotion, Best Gradual Tanner for Men and Women, Streak-Free Fake Tan, Fair to Medium

Rating
9.5
Formulation
Color Guide
Skin Type Compatibility

Most important from
24466 reviews

Formulation
The formula goes on clear and doesn’t stain clothes or sheets, making it very convenient to use day or night.
Color Guide
The tanning lotion blends easily without leaving an orange tint, providing a natural, gradual glow that looks very subtle and realistic.
Skin Type Compatibility
It’s super moisturizing and feels silky smooth on the skin, which is great for those with dry or sensitive skin.
Ingredients
Despite some users experiencing mild irritation, the product’s natural ingredients and fragrance-free formula make it safer for sensitive skin types.

This self-tanning lotion by Beauty by Earth aims to give a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow without the common orange tint, which is a plus if you want a subtle bronze effect. It comes in two shades—fair to medium and medium to dark—making it suitable for a wide range of skin tones. The lotion is made with natural and organic ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter, avoiding harmful additives such as parabens, sulfates, and artificial colors, which makes it a good choice for sensitive or dry skin types. It’s fragrance-free, so it won’t leave a noticeable scent after application.

The product is designed for both face and body use, including acne-prone skin, which adds versatility. Application is reportedly easy and streak-free, going on clear and not staining clothes or sheets, which can be a big convenience. The tan develops gradually and lasts for several days, allowing you to maintain a healthy glow without sun exposure. However, since it's a gradual tanner, it might not deliver an intense or immediate color change if you’re looking for a quick deep tan.

The lotion is praised for moisturizing the skin and having a clean beauty formula, though some users might prefer other formats like mousse or spray for faster coverage or different textures—these alternatives are also available from the brand. The product is made in the USA and backed by a satisfaction guarantee, reflecting confidence in its quality. This self-tanner is suitable for those seeking a natural, gentle, and safe tanning option that blends easily and suits multiple skin types, especially for people who prefer organic ingredients and gradual color rather than a strong instant tan.

Rating
9.5
Formulation
Color Guide
Skin Type Compatibility

Most important from
24466 reviews

Formulation
The formula goes on clear and doesn’t stain clothes or sheets, making it very convenient to use day or night.
Color Guide
The tanning lotion blends easily without leaving an orange tint, providing a natural, gradual glow that looks very subtle and realistic.
Skin Type Compatibility
It’s super moisturizing and feels silky smooth on the skin, which is great for those with dry or sensitive skin.
Ingredients
Despite some users experiencing mild irritation, the product’s natural ingredients and fragrance-free formula make it safer for sensitive skin types.

Buying Guide for the Best Face Self Tanners

Choosing the right face 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 product lies in understanding your skin type, desired outcome, and how different formulations work. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a face self-tanner.
FormulationFace self-tanners come in various formulations such as lotions, gels, sprays, and drops. The formulation affects how the product is applied and how it interacts with your skin. Lotions are hydrating and good for dry skin, gels are lightweight and suitable for oily skin, sprays offer easy application, and drops can be mixed with your regular moisturizer for a customizable tan. Choose a formulation that fits your skin type and application preference.
Color GuideA color guide is a tint in the self-tanner that helps you see where you have applied the product. This is important for ensuring an even application and avoiding streaks. If you are new to self-tanning, a product with a color guide can be very helpful. However, if you prefer a more subtle application, you might opt for a clear formula.
Development TimeDevelopment time refers to how long it takes for the self-tanner to develop its full color on your skin. This can range from a few hours to overnight. If you need a quick tan, look for products with a shorter development time. For a more gradual and natural-looking tan, products with longer development times might be preferable.
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 longevity. Keep in mind that moisturizing your skin regularly can help maintain the tan for a longer period.
Skin Type CompatibilityDifferent self-tanners are formulated for different skin types. Some are designed for dry skin and contain hydrating ingredients, while others are oil-free and suitable for oily or acne-prone skin. Knowing your skin type and choosing a product that caters to it can help prevent breakouts and ensure a smooth, even tan.
ScentThe scent of a self-tanner can be a significant factor for many users. Some self-tanners have a strong odor that can be off-putting, while others are formulated to be fragrance-free or have a pleasant scent. If you are sensitive to smells, look for products that are labeled as having a light or no scent.
IngredientsChecking the ingredients is crucial, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Look for self-tanners with natural and skin-friendly ingredients. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, parabens, and sulfates. Ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins can provide additional skin benefits.

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