If you’re like most of us here at AGEIST, you crave that gorgeous sun-kissed glow without premature aging or sun damage. Remember the days of Bain de Soleil and frying in your parents’ backyard? We hopefully know better now. Luckily, self-tanning is a fabulous solution that doesn’t involve risking UV damage. So, to keep that summer feeling going long into September and beyond, read on.
The Solution? Non-Toxic Self-Tanners
But before you grab just any bottle off the shelf, let’s talk about why non-toxic self-tanners are the way to go. A startling study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that our skin can absorb an average of 64% of contaminants it comes in contact with. Traditional self-tanners are often a cocktail of chemicals like mineral oil, which can clog pores and be carcinogenic, and other ingredients that might break down into formaldehyde or act as irritants. Not exactly what you want to slather all over your body.
While looking for efficient, safe, and affordable products, we chose products to bring you the best in clean, luxe, sunless tanning, so here are our top picks for your time in the sun. Oh, and we also considered the smell factor. One of the downsides of self-tanning has always been the weird smell before you take your first shower. That funky sunless-tanner smell is due to the chemical reaction between your skin and the key ingredient in sunless tanners: dihydroxyacetone (DHA). It’s that reaction that causes your skin to bronze and, though they are essential to a golden glow, the self-tanners that made our list don’t make you stink.
Top Picks for a Safe, Sunless Bronze That Delivers Results
Best for a gradual tan: Salty Face
Best for a gradual, streak-free tan, Salty Face offers products for the face and body rich in botanical extracts. They’re perfect for hydration without the sticky, tacky feel. Plus, their packaging is as thoughtful as their ingredients, using recyclable amber glass to ensure product longevity. We love the face drops for not causing breakouts and giving a lovely, natural glow when you need it most.
We recommend getting the set for both the face and body. It includes a brush for even application, and you can choose your shade.
Best for aging skin: Coco and Eve
An award-winning favorite, Coco and Eve’s Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam uses natural DHA and various organic ingredients to provide a long-lasting tan while nourishing the skin. Their commitment to being free from parabens, silicones, and gluten makes them stand out in the beauty world.
We recommend: The Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing set includes bronzing foam, a brush, and a mitt.
Best hydrator: Lux Unfiltered
Lux Unfiltered promises hydration and a flawless glow with its N°32 Gradual Self-Tanning Cream. Founded by digital creator Sivan Ayla, this brand focuses on natural beauty and includes ingredients like passion fruit oil and cocoa butter for a luxe moisturizing experience.
We recommend N°32 Deep Hydrating Self-Tanning Cream, a gradual tan for going darker.
Best for a natural glow: Typology
Next, for those who prefer a serum, French brand Typology’s Tan Complexion Serum offers a unique blend of plant-based ingredients for an instant glow. It’s perfect for all skin types and provides a radiant, natural-looking tan with just a few drops.
We recommend: This face tanner is great for that je ne sais quoi glow.
Best for custom color: Isle of Paradise
Customize your tan with Isle of Paradise’s Self-Tanning Drops. Mix them with your moisturizer for a bespoke glow. These drops are infused with vitamin C to brighten and even out skin tone, proving you can have a beautiful tan that’s also caring for your skin.
We recommend Isle’s Sunny Serum, which is perfect for an instant glow on your face, neck, shoulders, and décolletage. Pair it with your favorite tank or off-the-shoulder look for a candlelit effect.
Apply Yourself
Exfoliating your skin is crucial to ensure your tan looks natural and lasts longer. It helps to remove dead skin cells, which can cause your tan to appear patchy or uneven.
For one, dry brushing is a popular form of physical exfoliation. The technique involves using a brush with firm bristles to slough off dead skin in upward, circular motions. This helps remove dead skin cells, reduces the risk of ingrown hairs, and stimulates the lymphatic system, promoting lymphatic drainage. You can use dry brushing as a pre-shower exfoliant or try Drunk Elephant’s excellent scrub in the shower for a more intense exfoliation.
It’s best to use a mitt or brush to ensure an even tan. These tools help to distribute the self-tanner evenly, reducing the risk of streaks or patches. A mitt is great for larger areas of the body, while a brush is ideal for smaller areas like feet and hands. Using these tools will help you achieve a smooth and natural-looking tan.
In the following days, moisturize after each shower for a longer-lasting tan.
Don’t Skimp on the Sunscreen! Protect Your Skin, Protect Your Glow
However, even with your new faux glow, sun protection is non-negotiable. We’re currently obsessed with Vacation® – “Paradise in a Bottle.” It’s a bronzing lotion that protects from the sun with SPF 30 and enhances your tan with a beautiful bronzed tint and a delightful cocoa hazelnut scent. Plus, it’s reef-safe and free from harmful chemicals, making it excessively good and leisure-enhancing.
So, there you have it. You can safely achieve that enviable summer glow without the sun. Take the plunge on our non-toxic self-tanner picks and keep that radiant look all year round. Because who says tans are only for summer?
