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.

The Loving Tan Deluxe Self Tanning Bronzing Mousse is a mousse-based self-tanner designed to give a natural, sun-kissed glow with an easy, streak-free application. It stands out because of its quick drying time—just 60 seconds—so you can dress soon after applying. The built-in color guide acts as an instant bronzer, helping you see where you’ve applied and reducing the chance of uneven patches, which is great if you’re new to self-tanning. This color guide is washed off after eight hours, and the tan continues to develop for up to 24 hours, resulting in a deeper tone.

The product uses naturally derived DHA and is paraben-free, which makes it a good choice for those with combination skin who want a skin-friendly option. It’s also cruelty-free and dermatologist tested, adding to its appeal for health-conscious users. While it promises up to five applications per bottle, the 4 fl oz size may not last very long if used frequently or on larger body areas.

The product focuses on a dark shade, so if you prefer lighter or multiple shade options, this might be limiting. However, the mousse texture and the applicator mitt recommended for use help provide a smooth and even finish. Users should moisturize dry areas before applying to avoid patchiness. This self-tanner is ideal for those seeking a professional-looking, dark tan quickly and with minimal fuss. Its natural ingredients and easy application make it suitable for most skin types, but if you want a variety of shades or a larger quantity, you might want to explore other options.

The St.Tropez Self Tan Express Mousse is a versatile self-tanner suitable for all skin types, making it a great option for anyone seeking a customizable tan. One of its standout features is the ability to control the depth of your tan by adjusting the development time – leave it on for 1 hour for a light tan, 2 hours for a medium tan, or 3 hours for a dark tan. This flexibility is ideal for users who want to achieve different shades for various occasions.

Additionally, the mousse formulation allows for easy and even application, reducing the chances of streaks and providing a natural-looking finish. The product is quick-drying and non-sticky, enhancing user comfort post-application. Its vegan and cruelty-free credentials, along with natural tanning actives, make it a conscientious choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Users must follow through with exfoliation and moisturizing before application to achieve the best results, which may be an extra step for some. The longevity of one week is decent, though some might find they need to reapply sooner depending on their skin type and lifestyle. The product's signature fragrance is designed to boost mood, although some users might prefer a fragrance-free option. In summary, the St.Tropez Self Tan Express Mousse is a highly adaptable and user-friendly self-tanner that performs well across various skin types and tanning preferences, particularly benefitting those who appreciate a natural, streak-free tan that can be customized quickly.