10 bestFace Self Tannersof May 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
1

Tan-Luxe THE FACE Self Tanning Drops, Light/Medium (10 ml) Add Tanning Drops to Skin Care for Custom Face Tan, Cruelty Free & Vegan
TAN-LUXE

9.8
33% off
2

St.Tropez Gradual Tan Firming Lotion, Medium/ Dark Shade, Sun Kissed Glow Self Tan Moisturiser, 5 Skincare Benefits, Vegan, Natural & Cruelty Free, 200 ml
St.Tropez

9.6
30% off
3

Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Face Drops Dark (30 ml) Add Self Tanning Drops to Skin Care Natural Ingredients & Vegan
Isle of Paradise

9.4
40% off
4

Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Face Drops Medium (30 ml) Add Self Tanning Drops to Skin Care Natural Ingredients & Vegan
Isle of Paradise

9.2
33% off
5

Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk 375ml | Enriched with Vitamin E | Suitable for Sensitive Skin | Vegan + Cruelty Free | 375ml/13.2 FL Oz
Bondi Sands

9.0
OtherUp to 33% off
6

Clarins Self-Tanning Milky-Lotion 125ml
Clarins

8.7
33% off
7

St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist, Natural Sunkissed Glow Face Tan with Hyaluronic Acid & Antioxidants, Vegan, Natural & Cruelty Free Face Care, 80 ml
St.Tropez

8.5
50% off
8

Garnier Ambre Solaire Natural Bronzer Quick Drying Dark Self Tan Face Mist 75ml
Garnier

8.2
53% off
9

St.Tropez Tan Luxe Tonic Glow Drops, 5-in-1 Face Self Tanning Drops, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C & E, Vegan, Natural & Cruelty Free, 30 ml
St.Tropez

8.0
10

Isle of Paradise Self Tan Water Medium (200 ml) Hydrating Self Tanning Water Natural Ingredients & Vegan
Isle of Paradise

7.7
A Guide to Selecting the Best Face Self Tanners
Choosing the right face self-tanner can be a game-changer for achieving a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV exposure. The key to finding the perfect self-tanner is understanding your skin type, desired shade, and application preferences. It's important to consider how the product will interact with your skin and how it fits into your skincare routine. By focusing on specific features and understanding what they mean, you can select a self-tanner that will give you a natural-looking tan that suits your complexion and lifestyle.
Formulation Type
The formulation type of a face self-tanner refers to the product's consistency and how it is applied. Common types include lotions, creams, gels, mousses, and sprays. Lotions and creams are typically more moisturizing, making them ideal for dry skin. Gels and mousses are lightweight and often dry faster, which can be beneficial for oily or combination skin. Sprays offer a quick application but may require more skill to apply evenly. Choose a formulation that aligns with your skin type and application preference for the best results.
Color Guide
A color guide is a tint in the self-tanner that helps you see where you have applied the product, ensuring an even application. This is particularly useful for beginners or those who want to avoid streaks. Some self-tanners are clear and develop over time, which can be less messy but may require more careful application. If you're new to self-tanning, a product with a color guide can help you achieve a more uniform tan.
Development Time
Development time refers to how long it takes for the self-tanner to fully develop its color on your skin. This can range from a few hours to overnight. Quick-developing tanners are great for last-minute plans, while longer-developing ones might offer a more gradual and natural-looking tan. Consider your schedule and how quickly you want to see results when choosing a product.
Shade Options
Shade options in self-tanners range from light to dark, allowing you to choose how deep you want your tan to be. It's important to select a shade that complements your natural skin tone. If you have fair skin, start with a light or medium shade to avoid an unnatural look. Those with medium to dark skin tones can opt for darker shades for a more pronounced tan. Always consider how the shade will look on your skin and adjust based on your desired outcome.
Ingredients
The ingredients in a face self-tanner can affect both the tanning result and your skin's health. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera if you have dry skin. If you have sensitive skin, opt for self-tanners that are free from fragrances and harsh chemicals. Understanding the ingredient list can help you avoid potential irritants and choose a product that will nourish your skin while providing a beautiful tan.
Longevity
Longevity refers to how long the tan lasts before it starts to fade. This can vary from a few days to over a week, depending on the product and your skin type. If you prefer a low-maintenance routine, look for a self-tanner with longer-lasting results. However, if you like to change your look frequently, a product with shorter longevity might be more suitable. Consider how often you're willing to reapply the product when making your choice.

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