Y2K trends might be back, but there's one aughts habit we're happy to leave in the past: tanning beds. Indoor UV beds, and tanning in general, have been directly linked to increased rates of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer, especially among young people. And, ask any dermatologist, no glow is worth that risk. The good news? Thankfully, with the best gradual self-tanners, an even, non-streaky bronze is possible, safely. As someone who's tested every kind of self-tan out there—from tanning drops to tanners for pale skin and face tanners—I can confidently say gradual formulas are the most foolproof and beginner-friendly option.
"The intensity of a gradual self-tan is generally lighter and more subtle," says celebrity tan artist and Dolce Glow founder Isabel Alysa. "It's ideal for those who want a more natural-looking tan or are new to self-tanning and want to avoid drastic changes in skin color." And because the tan develops slowly, the level of tan can be controlled, so any fear of orange or streaky skin is pretty much off the table.
A handful of gradual self-tanners come in moisturizing body lotions, lightweight serum drops, or even quick-drying mousse formulas, and thanks to actives in the formulations, they actually have some skin benefits as well. "Self-tanners contain hydrating ingredients in the base solution, which doubles as a moisturizer to strengthen the skin barrier," says Teresa Song, M.D., and board-certified dermatologist.
Ahead, Alysa, Dr. Song, and other experts delve into everything you need to know about gradual self-tanner, from best practices to the 11 best formulas available. The natural-looking sun-kissed glow is just on the horizon, sans sun damage.
- Best Overall Gradual Self-Tanner: Saltyface Complete Tanning Set
- Best Gradual Self-Tanner Serum: Dolce Glow Goccia Di Sole Hydrating Self-Tanning Serum Drops for Face & Body
- Best Gradual Self-Tanner For Face: Tan-Luxe The Creme
- Best Gradual Self-Tanner for Body: Lux Unfiltered N°32 Hydrating Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion in Rosewood
- Best Subtle Gradual Self-Tanner: Dolce Glow Acqua Hydrating Self-Tanning Face Mist
The Best Gradual Self-Tanners
For the most natural, just-off-the-French-Riviera glow, this set from Saltyface delivers an even tan time and time again. The kit has everything you need for an all-over bronze: an invisible foam for the body, a water serum for the face, and two fluffy buffing brushes for easy blending. The color starts to develop after four hours, but continues to deepen for another 24. Saltyface also has tutorials, which make the application process easy to follow for beginners.
What I Love: Dries quickly; Blends effortlessly; Mess-free application; Easy to apply
What I Don't: May leave residue in the area you sprayed
Key Ingredients: Aloe (hydrates); Chamomile (calms); Linden flower (protects)
Development Time: 4-24 hours
Days of Wear: 2-3 days
Review for MC: "This gradual self-tanner kit is the ultimate kit for people, like me, who hate self-tanner. The clear, whipped tanning foam is somehow light and moisturizing enough that it doesn't cling to dry spots or leave my skin feeling tight or itchy. It melts into skin, blending super smoothly—even around tougher spots like elbows or knees. The water drops come with two nozzles: a dropper to apply it like a serum or a mister to spritz it onto the brush for a hands-free blending experience. But perhaps my favorite part is the two amazing buffing brushes—one for face and one for body—that come with the set. It all but ensures that you won't miss spots or have streaks."— Brianna Peters, Contributing Beauty Writer
Brianna Peters applying the Saltyface Complete Tanning Set.
Developed by celebrity spray tan artist Isabel Alysa, who counts Miley Cyrus and Kylie Jenner as regular clients, Dolce Glow formulates all their self-tanners with a skincare-first mentality. These new, often sold-out serum drops might be Alysa's best invention yet. They work brilliantly for both face and body—just mix one to four drops with your favorite serum, oil, or moisturizer and apply as you normally would. Alysa adds that this is full of skin-loving ingredients, including jojoba oil, macadamia oil, aloe vera, sodium hyaluronate, and fruit extracts, which she credits for their hydration and repairing properties. Because it's such a buildable tan, start with fewer drops than you think you need at first to see how it develops on your skin, or it could end up being darker than anticipated.
What I Love: Mixes with moisturizers, creams, and serums; Helps skin retain moisture; Dries quickly
What I Don't: More expensive than others; Have to wash hands after applying; Can stain (especially around the hair line/on blondes)
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Jojoba oil (moisturizes); Caffeine (firms)
Development Time: 4-6 hours
Days of Wear: 2-3 days
Review for MC: "These self-tanning serum drops are probably the most foolproof version of self-tanner ever. I love that I can add it to any skincare product I'm already using, whether it's a serum or body oil. I simply added 2-3 drops to my favorite Vintner's Daughter face oil, rubbed it together in my hands, and applied it all over my face and neck. It takes only seconds to apply because of its lightness. It feels like nothing on your skin: not sticky, not drying, not oily, nothing. Plus, it also smells like nothing—something that has caused me to skip self-tanner in the past."— Brianna Peters, Contributing Beauty Writer
Brianna Peters applies Dolce Glow Goccia Di Sole Hydrating Self-Tanning Serum Drops for Face & Body.
I think it's fair to say that the results speak for themselves with this top pick. As a face moisturizer-tanner hybrid, Tan-Luxe's cream does more than just bronze your skin—it also contains collagen-building amino acids, skin-protecting antioxidants, and moisturizing lipids. It leaves your complexion glowing after just a few hours and works to improve your skin in the days to come.
What I Love: Contains a powerful list of ingredients that support a healthy skin barrier; Feels like a traditional face moisturizer; Doesn't smell
What I Don’t: The amount of product is on the lower end, especially if you prefer a darker tan
Key Ingredients: Squalane (moisturizes); Glycerin (hydrates)
Development Time: 2-4 hours
Days of Wear: 1-4 days
Review for MC: "This tanner feels just as luxe as my very expensive face moisturizers. It's not greasy, and it doesn't get all over my clothes or bed. For me to build up to a deep tan like my testing photos, I have to do so over four nights. However, if I want something lighter, two nights will do the job. The best part, though, is that it doesn't come off patchy—just an even fade." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
Siena Gagliano applies Tan-Luxe The Crème Gradual Self-Tanning Face Moisturizer over a course of four nights to her chest and face.
Made with moisturizing squalane and cocoa butter, this next pick combines body lotion and self-tanner into one easy-to-use formula that doesn't need to be rinsed off to wear outside of the house (meaning no excessive scrubbing required). It leaves skin with a smooth and radiant luminosity and softly blurs imperfections—like a real-life Instagram filter.
What I Love: Doubles as body lotion; Has both a scented and fragrance-free option, so you can layer your own scent if you go with the latter
What I Don't: Takes time to dry completely and rub in
Key ingredients: Shea butter, cocoa butter (moisturizes); Vitamin E (protects with antioxidants)
Development Time: 6-8 hours
Days of Wear: 3-4 days
Review for MC: "If you, like me, don't have the patience to let self-tanner develop, this body lotion is for you. It combines two steps in one—body moisturizer and self-tan—so it's not a complicated process to apply and still delivers a natural bronzy glow. I applied it straight out of the shower while my skin was still damp and went to bed an hour later. Amazingly, it really doesn't stain your sheets and you wake up with the most gorgeous warmed-up skin." — Brianna Peters, Contributing Beauty Writer
Brianna Peters applies the Lux Unfiltered N°32 Hydrating Gradual Self Tanning Lotion in Rosewood.
For a subtle, gradual tan on your face, neck, and even décolletage, consider this lightweight tanning mist from Dolce Glow. The blend of moisturizing oils (macadamia, rose, and jojoba seed included) combines powerful hydrators like aloe vera and sodium hyaluronate for a skin-loving approach. This mist yields the same results as a spray tan, but in the comfort of your own home. Simply hold the nozzle about 10 inches from your skin, and spray in a slow, continuous motion. It goes on shockingly even, but if you're worried, use a mitt for extra blending.
What I Love: Dries quickly; Can apply makeup right after; Doesn't smell like typical self-tanners
What I Don't: May leave residue in the area you sprayed
Development Time: 6-8 hours
Days of Wear: 2-3 days
Review for MC: "I wasn't convinced about this buildable face mist at first—but after a week of using it, I'm a full-on believer. It could not be easier to apply—you just spray 3-4 spritzes on after your skincare routine and that's it. You can apply makeup immediately after. It somehow left me with an ethereal glow that was so natural, healthy-looking, and flattering that I got compliments from friends and strangers on the street."— Brianna Peters, Contributing Beauty Writer
Brianna Peters applies the Dolce Glow Acqua Hydrating Self-Tanning Face Mist.
If you're traveling or if you want to use a self-tanner but don't have time to exfoliate first, these pads may be the answer you're looking for. Individually packaged and TSA-friendly, they swipe on easily to gently exfoliate with glycolic acid and AHAs, hydrate skin with vitamin E, while leaving behind a subtle, glowy tan thanks to the encapsulated DHA that develops slowly over time. Best used on the face, neck, and chest, they're perfect for stowing in your go-bag, bringing on vacation, or simply keeping in your medicine cabinet in case of a tanning emergency.
What I Love: Great for travel; Includes glycolic and salicylic acid to improve skin tone and clear pores
What I Don't: Can appear patchy on very dry skin; Single-use, so not sustainable
Key ingredients: Glycolic acid (exfoliates); Vitamin E (protects with antioxidants); Glycerin (hydrates)
Development Time: 1 hour
Days of Wear: 3-4 days
Review for MC: "When I can, I'm a carry-on only traveler (anyone else have a lost suitcase situation that traumatized them?) so as I was packing for a bachelorette trip in Miami, I couldn't bring along all the deluxe self-tanners I regularly reach for. I stuffed these pads in my toiletry case last minute, and they ended up being the weekend savior. They take all of 60 seconds to apply and dry in even less time. They're the easiest one-stop shop for both exfoliating and self-tanning—and kept my skin smooth, even, and glowy throughout the entire weekend." — Brianna Peters, Contributing Beauty Writer
Made with actives like antioxidant-protecting vitamin E and moisturizing shea butter, this lotion-meets-milk is silky soft and great for those who love a low-maintenance option for everyday. Dr. Song calls this tanning milk an ideal "lightweight foam containing aloe vera." It's amazing as a replacement for your daily body moisturizer—just make sure to wash your hands after you use or apply it with a mitt in circular motions to clean, dry, freshly exfoliated skin for the best results.
What I Love: Dermatologist-approved; Natural scent; Vegan; Cruelty-free
What I Don't: Some users don't like that it's fragrant; Have to wait until it dries to get dressed
Key ingredients: Aloe vera (soothes); Vitamin E (fights free radicals); Shea butter (moisturizes)
Development Time: 1-3 applications
Days of Wear: 1
Review for MC: "In the wintertime, when I want more of a subtle glow, I go with this Bondi Sands tanning lotion. It's the perfect lotion to use every day as it leaves a slight, even tan that can easily be built up. What makes this gradual self-tanner a real winner, however, is its scent. It actually smells like cocoa butter that lingers for hours, so you won't have any of that dreaded fake-tan smell here. It's also a great option for those with lighter skin tones because it leaves a natural-looking tan and not an orangey mess."— Brooke Knappenberger, Associate E-Commerce Editor
Nivea's hydrating gradual self-tanner contains coenzyme Q10, a natural antioxidant that enhances cell turnover, making it an ideal retinol alternative that reduces visible signs of aging. "With Q10 technology that helps both firming and radiance (per its name), this gradual tanning moisturizer hydrates, tightens, and tans the skin in 10 days," says makeup artist Brandy Allen. The bottle is also generously sized, considering it costs less than $15.
What I Love: Antioxidant-rich; Affordable; Mitigates visible signs of aging; Hydrating
What I Don't: Takes several days of consistent use to yield results
Key ingredients: Glycerin (hydrating); CoQ10 (boosts collagen production)
Development Time: 1-2 days
Days of Wear: 3-5 days
Customer Review: "Seems to go on thick, but it actually doesn’t, it soaks in so nicely. Definitely very gradual, so don’t expect to be tan in one day. Most importantly, it DOES NOT SMELL like most tanning lotion. LOVE IT." —Amazon
Sunless tan expert and specialist Jennifer Wasser recommends this option from Tanologist because it has a "great color and price, is lightweight, and smells good but isn't overpowering." Vegan, clean, and cruelty-free, it's also ideal for commitment-phobes because it lasts for up to 24 hours and washes off easily with soap and water. Opt for this formula when preparing for a wedding or other formal event that calls for a subtle, temporary glow.
What I Love: Expert-approved; Clean; Vegan; Cruelty-free; Washes off easily; Buildable; Glowy finish: Dries quickly
What I Don't: Reviewers write that because it dries so quickly, there isn't much time to build an even finish
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Vitamin C (brightens); Pomegranate extract (boosts collagen)
Development Time: Instant
Days of Wear: 1-2 days or until you shower
Customer Review: "If you have a night out on the town or date night planned, this is for you! Goes on easily with a mitt and gives you a beautiful tan! Washes off very easily as well." — Tanologist
TikTok users are obsessed with this self-tanning lotion from Tan Luxe, and it's clear to see why. It's easy to apply, doesn't have an orange finish, and it comes recommended by experts like Wasser. She explains, "This is an oil/lotion hybrid that melts into skin effortlessly. It contains nourishing ingredients like raspberry seed oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera. Plus, it contains caffeine to help skin appear firmer." It's also lightweight, making it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and oily skin.
What I Love: Expert-approved; Natural finish; Lightweight; Great for all skin types
What I Don't: Strong smell
Key ingredients: Raspberry seed oil (rich in antioxidants); Aloe vera (soothes)
Development Time: 2-4 hours
Days of Wear: 2-3 days
Customer Review: "I have never been a fan of self-tanners until this product. I have tried express tanners, gradual tanners, mousses, lotions, foams, you get the idea. I just didn't like the process of using a mitt, waiting for them to dry, splotchy dry patches, the smell, etc. The problem was that I do love the look of having color to my skin in the spring and summer. Enter this game changer. This is like no product I have ever used. It has a very thin consistency, almost like liquid, and you apply it after you shower in place of or before your regular body lotion. I find it to be so moisturizing, I just use it in place of my moisturizer. It is so easy to apply, sinks right into the skin so you don't need to wait to put on clothes, and leaves no weird smell AT ALL. I find it gives the most natural tan color I have seen and develops FAST. I only use it a few times a week as it doesn't fade quickly on me either." — Ulta
Dr. Song loves this option for its powerful formula infused with shea butter and caffeine, two superstar anti-aging ingredients. She says that it's also great for people with dry skin because it hydrates and temporarily firms and lifts in addition to gradually bronzing skin. Allen uses it, too, adding that "it tones and tightens while giving a gradual glow." Because it's so moisturizing, though, it may feel thick for those with oily skin or who already use several layers of skincare.
What I Love: Dermatologist-recommended; Hydrating; Lifting
What I Don't: May be too thick for oily skin
Key ingredients: Caffeine (firms); Baobab oil (infuses skin with vitamins); Shea butter (moisturizes)
Development Time: 2-4 hours
Days of Wear: 2 days
Customer Review: “I have very sensitive skin, particularly with bronzers, so I was afraid to try something new. I’m SO glad I did—oh, I love this self-tanner lotion. It smells amazing, the color is fantastic, and it doesn't make me break out or itch at all. There is no orangey tint at all, and the fact that it doesn't smell like a self-tanner is amazing! It’s a new favorite! Can't wait to try this brand's other products.”— Nordstrom
What to Look For in Gradual Self-Tanner
- DHA Concentration
The active ingredient in most gradual self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a carbohydrate derived from sugar cane that interacts with the outer layers of your skin to produce a golden-brown color. Dr. Song explains that DHA "penetrates the stratum corneum, the most superficial layer of the skin, where it undergoes a non-enzymatic reaction to produce melanoidins that resemble melanin, darkening the skin temporarily." According to Wasser, the higher quality DHA you use, the longer your tan will last and the less the product will smell like chemicals.
Alysa adds that the main difference between gradual self-tanners and other formulas is the concentration of DHA, explaining, "They typically contain a lower concentration of self-tanning agents like DHA, compared to instant self-tanners or traditional self-tanning lotions." She warns that formulas with a higher concentration of DHA (typically products that promise darker, more immediate results) tend to dry out the skin, resulting in a patchy tan.
- Ingredient Profile
Look for a gradual self-tanner with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, sodium hyaluronate, and squalane, as they tend to apply more seamlessly and leave less room for error when there are moisturizing benefits involved. Wasser also vouches for hyaluronic acid, macadamia oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, cocoa butter, shea butter, and antioxidants like vitamin E and raspberry seed oil.
Meanwhile, if you have oily skin, Dr. Song warns that some self-tanners contain comedogenic ingredients, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. "Some self-tanners may contain irritating ingredients such as acids and occlusives like oils that should be avoided in sensitive or acne-prone skin," says Dr. Song. She recommends opting for non-comedogenic formulas and anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera and green tea extract.
- Shade
Most self-tanning brands offer several shades of gradual self-tanner. For the most natural-looking tan, Alysa recommends choosing a self-tanner that is a light to medium shade if you have a lighter skin tone, and if you want a deeper tan, choose a medium to dark self-tanner. Remember that gradual self-tanners are meant to be used over time, and it's easier to build up if you start with a lighter shade. If you don't see immediate results, remember that your results may still be pending. Allen recommends waiting at least 24 hours before reapplying any gradual self-tanner.
- Longevity
So long as you're not continually reapplying, Allen says that most gradual self-tanners last about a week, "depending on the person’s skin type, their prep before the application, and aftercare." However, some gradual self-tanners are made to wash off quicker, so be sure to check your product's packaging so you can manage your expectations.
To extend the life of your tan, Allen advises moisturizing your skin daily with a water-based moisturizer. However, steer clear of oils and thick moisturizers, which can break down the tanner.
How to Apply Gradual Self-Tanner
First, Wasser recommends exfoliating before applying self-tanner, explaining that this lengthens the tan's lifespan, prevents patchiness, and ensures even application. Self-tanners appear darker on dry skin, so apply a thin layer of moisturizer to chapped areas such as the knees, elbows, and ankles to prevent the tanner from creating darker patches or splotchiness.
When applying the product, Alysa recommends using a tanning mitt (not your bare hands) in light, even, circular strokes. Oversized brushes, such as kabuki brushes, also work well. For best results, Allen advises, "Apply two to three sheer coats to make sure you cover all areas. Let the previous coat sit before moving to the next coat."
If you're using a DHA-based gradual self-tanner, you thankfully don't have to worry about it staining your clothes.
Why Trust Marie Claire?
Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she specializes in crafting shopping stories—from sales content to buying guides that span every vertical on the site. Brianna Peters is an Austin and New York-based beauty writer and consultant with over a decade of experience in the industry, writing for outlets like goop, Vogue, InStyle, Marie Claire, Brides, and more. For this story, they rigorously tested many of the best gradual self-tanners themselves as well as sourced rave reviews from real customers.
When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we've spoken to. Learn more about how we review products.
How We Tested
Marie Claire beauty contributor, Brianna Peters, and Associate Commerce Editor, Brooke Knappenberger—along with a few editors and contributors—went through a vigorous testing period where they reviewed dozens of gradual self-tanners. After determining the top picks alongside tanning experts, they each tested the self-tanner on their skin, keeping how long it lasts, how it applies, the ingredients, and how it feels to compile this list of the 11 best gradual self-tanners.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Teresa Song is a board-certified dermatologist at Mamur Medical in New York City. She works in general and cosmetic dermatology and encourages her patients to embrace a less-is-more approach in their skincare regimens.
As the mastermind behind the renowned self-tanning brand, Dolce Glow, Isabel's expertise has garnered her a reputation as the go-to celebrity spray tan artist for A-listers like Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lopez, and Sophia Richie Grainge, to name a few. Feeling immensely empowered by her first spray tan experience, Isabel made it her mission to spread this profound sense of self-love by creating her own brand & business. Her mission has ultimately led to her esteemed reputation as a top-notch celebrity spray tan artist in the sunless tanning industry. She made her "Isabel Signature Glow" available nationwide through Dolce Glow, making her sunless tan more accessible by creating a range of clean and anti-aging formulations.
Brandy Allen is a celebrity makeup artist who specializes in making skin look flawless, no matter the client's concerns. She has worked with Keke Palmer, Janelle Monae, Yara Shahidi, and others. She is currently bicoastal, splitting time between New York City and her native Los Angeles.
Jennifer is a sunless tan expert and specialist with over 20 years of experience and training from world-renowned skincare and beauty brands. She has extensive training and knowledge of all aspects of the sunless-tanning industry, and she has trained with five different celebrity spray tan artists and a multi-winning Emmy and Guild Award makeup artist.
