10 Best Self Tanners 2025 in the United States

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.

Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tanning Foam is a lightweight mousse designed to deliver a deep, golden tan quickly and conveniently. Its standout feature is the ultra-fast drying time, allowing you to get dressed almost immediately after application, which is great if you’re short on time. The formula is enriched with argan oil, a skin-friendly ingredient that helps keep your skin hydrated and smooth, which sets it apart from some drying self-tanners. This product is suitable for all skin tones and aims for a darker, bronzed glow, making it a solid choice if you want a rich color rather than a subtle tint.

The foam texture makes it easy to spread evenly, and the signature coconut scent adds a pleasant tropical vibe during use. However, the product offers limited shade options, focusing mostly on one deep golden color, so if you prefer lighter or more customizable shades, this might not fully meet your needs. While the tan develops without the need to rinse off, typical fading occurs after several days, which is common for self-tanners and means regular reapplication is necessary to maintain the look.

Bondi Sands Liquid Gold is a great option for anyone seeking a quick-drying, deeply bronzing self-tanner with skin-hydrating benefits, though it may not be suitable for those looking for multiple shade choices or longer-lasting wear.

TAN-LUXE The Body Illuminating Self-Tan Drops offer a customizable tanning solution suitable for all skin types. The serum formulation is enriched with hydrating ingredients like raspberry seed oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera, along with caffeine to help firm the skin. This makes it not only a self-tanner but also a skincare product that tones and plumps the skin.

The product is designed to develop a natural-looking tan within 4-6 hours, providing a radiant glow without the traditional self-tan smell, thanks to its pH-balanced formula. The drops are vegan and cruelty-free, made with naturally derived DHA, and free from parabens, which will appeal to those looking for a more ethical beauty choice. They come in two shade ranges: Light/Medium for red and pinkish undertones and Medium/Dark for olive and darker tones, catering to different skin tones and preferences.

The customization aspect may require users to experiment with the number of drops to achieve their desired shade, which could be a learning curve for some. Also, while the self-tanner claims to minimize imperfections and even skin tone, users with very fair skin might need to be more careful with application to avoid any streaks or patches. In terms of longevity, the tan typically lasts about a week, which is decent but might require regular maintenance for those seeking a longer-lasting effect. The product's cruelty-free and toxin-free attributes add to its appeal, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize ethical beauty products.