The summer solstice is my Super Bowl. I was born in summer and my name literally means “The Sun”. When it gets warmer, I defrost. I enjoy outdoor dining, summer outfitsand the smell of coconut and vanilla (my signature summer perfumes). As a black woman, I grew up inundated with beauty standards that valued lighter skin and told me not to go out in the sun. But for years, I exposed my skin to the sun in search of my summer glow. I always felt more like myself after a sunny day.
A decade later, I pay for my dedication with countless bottles of sunscreen and piles of protective clothing. Although I still enjoy plenty of sun exposure (my serotonin depends on it), finding the best self-tanner has proven to be my sun-obsessed solution. Fortunately, recent years have transformed the self-tanner industry into a certified skincare category. From skin-focused formulas to premium options for all skin tones, sunless self-tanner is a must-have for glowing skin all year round.
How to choose the best self-tanner
Raise your hand if you’ve ever been burned, perhaps literally, by self-tanners. Fortunately, these days, gems abound. To find the top self-tanners, we turned to the experts. In front, Sabrina Johnsonspray tan stylist and beautician, and Ashley McNabbmakeup artist and founder of Ashley McNabb Artisticshare everything you need to know about the best self-tanners.
Best Self Tanning Ingredients
To maintain your glow, avoid anything that could dry out your skin and undo its preparation. Johnson advises: “Avoid self-tanners with harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. » Alcohol, found in many quick-dry formulas, can also be harmful, but it can exacerbate dryness and dehydration.
Look for the following ingredients in your self-tanner:
- Antioxidants: (Niacinamide, Resveratrol, Coenzyme Q10, Ferulic Acid, Copper, Zinc, Selenium)
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Aloe vera
- Vitamins A, C and E
What to do before applying self-tanner
“The biggest mistake you can make when using a self-tanner is not prepping the skin,” says Johnson. Here are some steps to prepare your skin for the best self-tanning results.
Dry brush your entire body. Yes, dry brushing can boost circulation and lymphatic drainage, but it’s also worth it just for the exfoliation factor. Simply brush in broad strokes towards your heart: gentle pressure and slow movements are best.
Do a body scrub. According to Johnson, “Skipping exfoliation can result in uneven application and staining. Avoid chemical exfoliants like AHA, BHA, and retinol before and after tanning, as they will speed up the fading of your tan.” By removing excess dead skin cells with a gentle body scrub, the results last longer.
Take a shower for everything. An indulgent shower routine It sounds like a luxury, but before you self-tan, it’s a necessity. Since you can’t shower for 8 to 12 hours after application, the best at-home self-tanner starts in the shower. Focus on replenishing your skin’s moisture with nourishing ingredients. For extra exfoliation, I love using the Esker body plan with a light body oil to really slough away dead skin while sealing in moisture.
Hydrate. After your shower, dry off and use a deeply hydrating lotion all over your body. Make sure to extra moisturize your hands (and between your fingers), feet, ankles, knees, and elbows.
Prepare your face. Just like your body, a smooth canvas allows for better application. Use a gentle (physical!) exfoliator and, according to the instructions on your self-tanner of choice, deeply moisturize.
Hydrate yourself from the inside out. This is the key to maintaining an even tan for as long as possible. Favor naturally hydrating fruits and vegetables, experiment with DIY spa watersor consider adding electrolytes to your H20.
How to Apply Sunless Self Tanners
Although applying a self-tanner at home can be intimidating, a few tips and tricks go a long way in achieving an even, natural glow that suits your skin tone. McNabb shares his best tips for streak-free, tanned skin.
Start small. It’s always a good idea to test the product on a small area of your skin before applying it to your entire body to make sure you like the color.
Work your way. Whether with your hands or with a glove, do it in small sections. Blend in circular motions and pay special attention to the ankles, toes, knees and elbows, as these areas can be difficult to blend.
Don’t forget the SPF! Some people apply self-tanner and forget about additional sun protection. Don’t make this mistake.
The Best Self-Tanners, Tested & Reviewed
Luckily, finding the right self-tanner has never been easier and you don’t have to risk turning orange in the process. “Each product offers different benefits, so consider your skin type, desired result, and any skin sensitivities when choosing a self-tanner,” says Johnson.
If you find yourself in the self-tanner aisle or switching between product types, consider this your definitive guide to the best self-tanners.
Best self-tanner for face
The viral TikTok self-tanner that actually works: a lightweight, fragrance-free mist made with organic DHA from sugar beets that builds gradually for a sun-kissed glow that reads like real. Gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin, it fits seamlessly into your existing skincare routine as a final step.
Ideal for beginners
Brown Bee Gradual Tan Daily Moisturizer
If the idea of self-tanning still makes you nervous, this is your entry point. A 4-in-1 daily moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid, shea butter and jojoba oil that creates a natural, hydrated glow over time – no gloves, no stress, no commitment.
Ideal for pale skin
The foolproof option for fair skin types who want a real glow without the orange. This richly nourishing butter—loaded with cocoa butter, shea butter, and raspberry seed oil—gradually develops over 2 to 4 hours into a luminous, buildable tan that’s as hydrating as your favorite body moisturizer.
Ideal for dark skin
St. Tropez Self-Tanning Dark Tanning Mousse
One that delivers a deep, rich tan that actually looks like time spent in the sun. St. Tropez Dark Mousse adapts to your skin tone for 4-8 hours, transforming into a long-lasting, streak-free bronze with 100% natural DHA and no self-tanner odor.
Takeaways
Finding your self-tanner is a bit like finding the right foundation. It takes some trial and error, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Whether you’re starting with a progressive formula or moving up to full bronze, the most important thing is preparation. Do it right and the rest is easy. Summer skin, sorted.
This article was last updated on May 12, 2026 to include new information.
The position Too good to keep: These self-tanners are the secret to your most glowing summer skin appeared first on Camille Styles.
