10 Face-Friendly Self-Tanners You'll Want to Try This Summer

Glow from head to toe!

July 01, 2021

By: Jessica Butler

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Photo By: Youngoldman

10 Self-Tanners Made Just for the Face

Self-tanning can be a healthy way to get some summer color going. Unfortunately, the sprays, gels, and foams we use on our bodies don’t always work for the face. Traditional self-tanners can cause facial irritation and acne, depending on the formula you choose. That’s why many people avoid using tanning products on their faces — but not anymore! We’ve rounded up some top-rated self-tanners that are specifically made for the face, so you can have a worry-free experience. Check out our favorites!

Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

Tackle skincare and self-tanning in one incredible bottle! These tanning drops will boost and smooth your skin with raspberry seed oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera. Add one to four drops to your favorite moisturizer, serum, or face oil and you’re good to go! “No streaks. No smells. No drama” when you use The Face.

BUY IT: Ulta, $49.00

Isle of Paradise Hyglo Hyaluronic Self-Tan Face Serum

This pick combines skincare and self-tanning. These drops contain hyaluronic acid, avocado oil, chia seed oil, and coconut oil to hydrate and nourish your skin as your faux facial tan develops. Just apply four to twelve drops, evenly distribute the product on your face, and wash your hands immediately after use.

BUY IT: Amazon, $30.40

St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist

Get a natural glow with the spritz of a bottle. This mist contains 100% natural tanning agents, hibiscus extract (for its antioxidant properties), and fresh green mandarin water for a pleasant scent. Shake well, close your eyes, and mist three to five pumps onto your (clean and dry) face in a downward motion. After four to eight hours, you’ll have a full glow going. It’s as simple as that!

BUY IT: Ulta, $30.00

Tanologist Face + Body Drops

These clean, clear drops are easy to use and super customizable. The formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and non-comedogenic, so no clogged pores here. It contains aloe vera to soothe, pink grapefruit to brighten, goji berry for antioxidant power, and juniper to even out skin tone. Mix one to twelve drops into any lotion and apply the mixture to your face. This product can be used on both face and body, making it a versatile and flexible product.

BUY IT: Ulta, $19.99

Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Face Serum

This self-tanning serum has a 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews on Ulta’s website. The unique formula contains DHA (Dihydroxyacetone, a self-tanning agent derived from sugar beet), centella asiatica meristem cell culture (derived from the gotu kola plant, which is known to help reduce signs of skin aging) and hyaluronic acid for hydration. Apply two to three pumps, just like you would with your usual serums. You can also mix it with moisturizer for a more subtle effect.

BUY IT: Ulta, $43.20

Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster

Clarins’ booster will warm your complexion while gradually developing for a sun-kissed look. Mix it with your favorite moisturizer and use it up to twice a day for added radiance! It’s suitable for all skin types and a simple way to get that glow from within.

BUY IT: Ulta, $32.00

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Intense Glow Pads

Exfoliating, ant-aging, and self-tanning all in one? With these glow pads, anything is possible! Swipe the towelette around your face in circular motions and your tan will develop within three to four hours. In the meantime, the alpha and beta hydroxy acids in the wipes will gently exfoliate your skin.

BUY IT: Amazon, $31.99

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tan Drops for Face

This hyaluronic acid-rich pick is fragrance-free, dye-free, and non-sticky, making it a great choice for sensitive skin types. Add five to seven drops to your favorite moisturizer (or other skincare serums and oils) for a light, subtle glow or eight to ten drops for a more sun-kissed look.

BUY IT: Amazon, $13.07

Beauty by Earth Self Tanner for Face

With 4.5 stars from over 1,700 Amazon ratings, this self-tanner is definitely a top-rated pick. The gradual facial tanner has no dyes, no chemical fragrances, and it won’t stain your sheets or clothes — which is always a plus! It contains aloe vera and shea butter, so you just know it’ll be hydrating and soothing.

BUY IT: Amazon, $25.00

Tan Towel Face Tan

These convenient towelettes contain a clear tanning liquid with anti-aging properties. The wipes aim to hydrate your skin while developing a faux tan within 24 hours. Basically, color will start to appear after two to four hours, but you’ll see the full effect after a day. Just swipe it on and you’re ready for summer!

BUY IT: Amazon, $30.00

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