Choosing the best self-tanner for you

Self-tanners offer a sun-free way to achieve a radiant, bronzed glow. Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the diverse world of self-tanners, from mousses to drops, ensuring a streak-free, natural-looking bronze that complements your skin tone and lifestyle. Discover tips for application, maintenance, and finding your perfect glow.

What is the best self-tanner?

The best self-tanner depends on your skin tone, preferences, and routine. Here are some bestselling picks at Ulta Beauty to get you glowing:

• Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse: A cult-favorite for a streak-free, customizable tan.
• Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam: Infused with nourishing ingredients for a flawless, tropical-inspired tan.
• Tan-Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tanning Lotion: A gradual option that adds a natural, radiant finish with every use.

Explore these guest-loved options and find your perfect match!

What is the best self-tanner for mature skin?

The best self-tanners for mature skin not only provide a natural-looking glow but also include hydrating and skin-loving ingredients. Here are a few top picks available at Ulta Beauty:

• Volition Getaway Glow Gradual Tan + Firming Serum: Enriched with active ingredients to firm skin while building a sun-kissed tan.
• Tanologist Hydrating Gradual Tanning Lotion: A hydrating formula that builds a sun-kissed golden glow over time.

What is the most natural looking self-tanner?

Look for self-tanners with buildable color or labeled as “subtle glow,” ideal for creating a lit-from-within finish. Gradual tanning lotions and serums often provide the most natural results. Olive or neutral-toned bronzing products can help avoid orange or overly warm hues.

What is the easiest self-tanner for beginners?

Tanning drops or gradual lotions are beginner favorites thanks to their forgiving application and buildable color. Bonus tip? Choose a formula with a color guide to see where you've applied.

What is the longest lasting self-tanner?

Mousse or foam self-tanners that develop overnight and contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone) typically last the longest—up to 7–10 days with proper prep and care. For maximum longevity, exfoliate before application and moisturize daily to maintain an even fade.

What is the best self-tanner for face?

Facial self-tanners are specially formulated to be non-comedogenic, lightweight, and often packed with skincare ingredients. Self-tanning drops that mix with your moisturizer, or face-specific tanning mists and serums, offer the most customizable and gentle options for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Which self-tanner is best for fair skin?

For fair skin, choose light-to-medium or gradual tanners with neutral or olive undertones to avoid an orange tint. Look for formulas labeled “light,” “fair,” or “sun-kissed,” and avoid deep bronzing products unless you want a dramatic effect. Gradual tanning lotions are especially great for building color slowly and naturally.

Self-Tanner FAQs

What is the best lotion to use with self-tanner?

Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer on dry areas like knees, elbows, ankles, and hands before applying self-tanner. After your tan develops, maintain it with a daily hydrating body lotion—preferably fragrance-free—to prevent patchiness and extend your glow.

What is the best way to remove self-tanner?

To remove self-tanner, exfoliate gently using a body scrub or exfoliating mitt or use a tan remover designed to break down old color. For stubborn areas, try soaking in a warm bath with a few drops of oil to help loosen the color, then exfoliate again.

How long does self-tanner last?

Most self-tanners last between 5 to 10 days, depending on the formula and how well you prep and maintain your skin. Exfoliating before application and moisturizing daily helps prolong your tan and ensure it fades evenly.

How does self-tanner work?

Self-tanners contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a plant-derived ingredient that reacts with the amino acids on your skin's surface to create a temporary tan. The color develops within 2–4 hours and can deepen over the next few hours.

What's the difference between tanning lotion and self-tanner?

Tanning lotion is typically used to accelerate a natural tan from sun exposure, often containing SPF or bronzers for temporary color. Self-tanners develop color without sun exposure, using DHA to create a lasting tan.

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