Skin Care
11 Best Self-TannersGet a sexy, golden sunless tan using one of the best self-tanner options out there |
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There has to be some sunless tanning winners out there, because bronze-y stars constantly grace the red carpet (and you know most of them wouldn't risk wrinkles by baking in the sun to get that glow.) But how do you know which of the best self-tanners is going to yield the most natural-looking results?
Our readers tried and tested a ton of self-tanner skin care products for your sunless tanning pleasure. Since tanning creams have gotten a bad rap for often being hot streaky messes, it's super helpful to know that real women tried out these particular products and rave about them. You can read the enthusiastic reviews from everyone, from our freckly, pale-skinned friends who can't (and shouldn't) sunbathe but miraculously found faux glow bliss, to gals who praise the magic of self-tanning power to cover up the tan lines that are ruining their strapless dress game. And of course, regardless of how amazing a sunless tanner formula might be, the secret to making it look real is in the application. Here, a few tips on how to expertly apply self-tanner:
-Exfoliate and shave before you let self-tanner anywhere near your body. Use a mild exfoliant to make sure you're sloughing off your dead skin cells before the self-tanner goes on.
-Stand between two mirrors to apply the self-tanner, so you can see exactly what you're doing.
-Be extra mindful of the knees, hands, elbows, feet, ankles and face. These are the areas where self-tanning mistakes show up most. Use a minimal amount of tanning lotion in these areas, and consider wearing latex gloves or a tanning mitt to apply it.
-Once you've applied your self-tanner, keeping your skin hydrated is the key to making it last. Apply lotion daily.
Image via @thebodyshop
SEE NEXT PAGE: Best Self-tanner No. 11: Kiehl's Sun Free Self-tanning Formula, $22.50
Older comments
I like Bliss and Lorac products in general. Nice items to try!
by GigiSD Thursday, April 11, 2013 at 06:57PM Report as inappropriate
Some of these make me a little nervous, but the prices are certainly good but I don't think that's a recommendation. You?
by islands4me Monday, March 11, 2013 at 11:26AM Report as inappropriate
You left off Tan Towels, which are the best, most efficient self tanner.
by CaroleVonAllten Friday, February 22, 2013 at 10:41AM Report as inappropriate
These sound interesting
by LittleBunny Friday, February 22, 2013 at 10:02AM Report as inappropriate
I love gradual tanners, but I'm a little scared to try actual self-tanners.
by Chris213 Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 07:15AM Report as inappropriate
banana boat is pretty good. It is the least smelly one out of all cheaper self-tanners. Their spray self-tanner is pretty nice too.
by venenumletalis Monday, January 21, 2013 at 07:55PM Report as inappropriate
I'm so intruiged by self tanner but have never used one. this article i feel like it gave me to push i needed
by rayshaviolet Tuesday, December 18, 2012 at 01:40PM Report as inappropriate
Made in the Shade by Arbonne! It gets darker as you get hotter! That means, put it on and...go to the gym, blow dry your hair, go outside!You get a natural looking tan and it has SPF so you can use it as sunscreen. I ALWAYS bring this with me on vacation and you get exceptionally dramatic results. LOVE LOVE LOVE
by BlackFleur145 Thursday, November 22, 2012 at 07:49PM Report as inappropriate
Interesting recommendations, surprised Lancomes bronzer didn't make the list. It smells great and I've been using it on and off for years. Coppertone is another good lotion that leaves no streak if you reub it on evenly.
by Lani702 Friday, November 2, 2012 at 07:01PM Report as inappropriate
I believe all self tanners are going to leave a streak or two here and there but there are definitely some that are way better than others. I suggest to try at leaste 5 different brands and find the one that best compliments your skin tone. Also, taking advice from here can get you through them a little quicker and may save a little money too in the end!
by EricaC123 Tuesday, October 30, 2012 at 12:43PM Report as inappropriate