10 Best Self Tanners 2026 in the United States

This self-tanner lotion is designed to give a natural, sun-kissed glow without the unwanted orange tones often found in fake tans. It comes in two shade ranges—fair to medium and medium to dark—making it a good choice for people with different skin tones. The formula is made in the USA with natural and organic ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter, which are gentle on all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It’s free from artificial colors, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates, so it’s a safer option for those worried about skin irritation.

Application is straightforward: the lotion goes on clear and promises a streak-free, even tan that won’t stain clothes or bedding. It can be applied on both face and body, offering a seamless look. The tan develops over a few hours and lasts for several days with proper care, which aligns well with what you'd expect from a gradual tanner. While the product highlights multiple formats (like mousse and spray), this listing focuses on the lotion form, which tends to be easy to control during application.

This self-tanner suits anyone seeking a natural, healthy-looking tan that’s easy to apply and kind to the skin, especially if you want to avoid harsh chemicals or strong scents.

The Beauty by Earth Self Tanner is an appealing choice for anyone seeking a natural-looking tan without exposure to harmful UV rays. Its formulation, made with organic ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter, ensures a moisturizing experience that’s gentle on the skin, making it suitable for various skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Users particularly appreciate the streak-free application, which is a common concern with self-tanners, and the fact that it dries clear, minimizing the risk of staining clothes or sheets.

One of the strengths of this self-tanner is its shade range. It offers options from fair to medium and medium to dark, allowing users to select a color that complements their natural skin tone. The tan develops quickly and can last several days with proper care, making it a convenient option for those who want an easy, low-maintenance way to maintain a sun-kissed glow.

Some users might find the development time to be a bit longer than anticipated, requiring patience for the desired results to fully take effect. Additionally, while the product claims to be suitable for all skin types, results can vary based on individual skin conditions and how well the lotion is absorbed. In terms of availability, this self-tanner is part of a broader range of tanning products from Beauty by Earth, which is a plus for those looking to explore different formats like mousse or tanning drops.

The Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Drops in Medium (Golden Glow) offer a tailored approach to self-tanning by allowing users to mix the drops with their favorite moisturizer. This customizable formulation ensures you can control the depth of your tan, making it suitable for varying preferences—from a light radiant glow to a deeper bronze tan.

The drops are vegan and cruelty-free and are infused with natural ingredients like grapefruit, chia seed, and avocado oils, which help to keep the skin hydrated while providing an even and long-lasting tan without streaks, stains, or unpleasant smells. The product uses green color-correcting actives to neutralize red tones and offer a medium golden tan.

Suitable for normal skin types, the self-tanning drops develop within 4-6 hours, providing a quick turnaround for those looking to achieve a sun-kissed look efficiently. It is essential to wash hands after application to avoid staining. While the shade range is customizable, it depends on the user's ability to mix the correct amount, which might be tricky for some. Additionally, because it is designed to mix with your moisturizer, the final result can vary based on the moisturizer’s formulation. This product is beneficial for those who prefer a personalized tanning experience and are comfortable with mixing their own solutions.