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 Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Water is a lightweight spray-on tanner designed for easy home use, especially if you want a quick and mess-free way to get a medium golden glow. It’s a clear formula that dries fast and absorbs in seconds, which helps avoid the common problem of sticky or transfer-prone tans. One of its standout features is the green color-correcting actives that help cancel out red tones, making it great if you have uneven skin redness. It’s also packed with plant-based oils like grapefruit, chia seed, and avocado that hydrate the skin while you tan, so it’s suitable for dry or sensitive skin types and leaves the skin feeling nourished.

This product comes in three shade options, but this particular one focuses on a medium glow, which might be limiting if you prefer a very light or deep tan. The tan develops over 4 to 6 hours, so it’s not instant but also not a long wait. Application requires some prep like exfoliating and moisturizing dry areas, plus using a mitt for best results to avoid uneven streaks. While it offers a natural, streak-free finish without any strong tanning smell, some users might find the aerosol format a bit tricky to control during application.

This self-tanner suits those who want a hydrating, natural-looking tan without the fuss or mess, especially if you appreciate skin-friendly ingredients and color correction. It may not be the best choice if you want very fast or very dark tanning results.

The St.Tropez Self Tan Suprême Violet Bronzing Mousse is designed for those seeking a deep, rich olive tan. Its formulation as a mousse makes it easy to apply, and it is suitable for all skin types. The mousse incorporates Tri-Tan Technology, which combines three powerful tanning actives to achieve a dark tan. The violet-tint base helps in balancing skin tones for a natural-looking tan with olive undertones. Additionally, it is hydrating, which benefits users by keeping the skin moisturized while tanning.

The product is also vegan and cruelty-free, appealing to those who prioritize ethical beauty products. The tan it provides is described as long-lasting and streak-free, which are significant advantages for users looking for a durable and flawless finish. However, it is discontinued by the manufacturer, which might make it difficult to find. Its compact size (6.7 fl oz) makes it convenient for travel, but might not be sufficient for frequent tanners. Its compatibility with all skin tones and types makes it versatile, but the ultra-dark shade may not be suitable for those looking for a lighter tan.

The St.Tropez Self Tan Suprême Violet Bronzing Mousse seems to be a solid choice for anyone desiring a deep, natural-looking olive tan.