Sunless Tanners: Reviews

Updated May 2012

Sunless tanning products promise a safe, natural-looking "tan" without the risk of skin damage from sun exposure. Products include lotions, gels, foams, sprays and towelettes. All work in essentially the same way: staining the outermost surface of the skin with dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and erythrulose, both of which are safe -- though smelly -- dyeing ingredients.

Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel

Best sunless tanner

$35

Estimated Price

Reviewers say Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel is the best do-it-yourself tanner because it's easy to apply and it doesn't streak. Although it's more expensive than similar products, testers say a little goes a long way, and the natural-looking tan it imparts is worth its extra cost. Compared to other brands, users say its formula doesn't feel sticky, and it dries more quickly. Because Clarins is colorless, there is no tint to show where you've already applied it. As with all DIY tanning products, users need to wait a few hours before their tans will completely develop. But once it does, users say it will last more than a week. Some complain about Clarins' strong chemical smell. However, all tanning products emit an odor stemming from their active dyeing ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (DHA).

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Jergens Natural Glow Revitalizing Daily Moisturizer

Best gradual sunless-tanning lotion

Estimated Price

Moisturizing body lotions that include a mild self tanner are gentle enough to use daily as a substitute for a regular body lotion. Tans gradually develop over a few days, and color is maintained with regular use. In this class of sunless tanners, Jergens Natural Glow ranks highest in reviews, with users praising its simple, non-sticky formula, and they appreciate its non-streaking, even application. Because this product is diluted with lotion, users say that it doesn't smell as strongly as other sunless tanners (which are known to emit chemical odors). Jergens Natural Glow also comes in two tanning shades, enabling users to better match their skin tone.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Tan Towel Self-Tan Towelettes

Best tanning wipes

$24

Estimated Price

Tan Towel Self-Tan Towelettes are tiny, totable pouches. When you rub a wipe over your skin, it darkens within two to four hours. However, because it's hard to control the amount of tanning solution that's being applied, reviewers say Tan Towels are better for smaller spot applications, such as eliminating tan lines, rather than for the whole body. Many users also complain about this product's sketchy coverage -- it has a tendency to streak, especially when applied to large areas.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Alba Botanica Very Emollient Sunless Tanner

Best natural sunless tanner

$11

Estimated Price

All sunless-tanning products rely on the same active ingredient: dihydroxyacetone (DHA). What sets Alba Botanica Very Emollient Sunless Tanner apart from other products is its high level of moisturizing plant oils and antioxidants that leave skin feeling soft. The formula is also free of harmful chemicals like parabens (synthetic preservatives that may be linked to health problems). Reviewers say that it produces a subtle tan but with increased application frequency can develop a more intense color.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Mystic Tan UV-Free Spray-On Tanning

Best professional spray tan

$25

Estimated Price

Reviewers frequently praise Mystic Tan UV-Free Spray-On Tanning, which is available only at tanning salons. Although more expensive than a do-it-yourself product, reviewers say the added cost is worth it because Mystic Tan provides more even coverage than lotions and wipes. The tanning solution is sprayed over your entire body, drying just a few minutes after application, and results can be seen after just one session. Mystic Tan encourages clients to come back for reapplication every four to six days to maintain their tans, however, prompting some to complain that Mystic Tan doesn't last any longer than other sunless tanning options.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

COMPARE PRODUCTS

See a side-by-side comparison of key features, product specs, and prices.