Y2K trends may be coming back, but there's one 2000s practice we're happy to leave behind: tanning beds. These indoor UV booths—and tanning in general—have been linked to spikes in skin cancer. Thankfully, with the best gradual self-tanners on the market, you still get a safe, even, and non-streaky bronze—without the patchiness of instant self-tanners.
"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, you can control the level of tan, so you don't have to worry about emerging from your tanning session with orange skin.
A handful of gradual self-tanners come in body lotions or nourishing mousse formulas, which actually help improve the skin as they work. "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 tanning experts delve into everything you need to know about gradual self-tanner, from best practices to the best options available. Your finest tan yet is just on the horizon—sans sun damage.
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." Wasser says 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
Looking for a gradual self-tanner with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, sodium hyaluronate, and squalane. 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. Finally, avoid potential irritants like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, fragrances, mineral oils, and artificial coloring.
- 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. Celebrity makeup artist Brandy 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 more quickly, 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.
The Best Gradual Self-Tanners
- Best Overall Gradual Self-Tanner: Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk
- Best Luxury Gradual Self-Tanner: Dolce Glow D'Oro Self-Tanning Lotion
- Best Budget Gradual Self-Tanner: Tanologist Daily Glow - Hydrating Gradual Tanning Lotion
- Best Gradual Self-Tanner for Lighter Skin Tones: Jergens Natural Glow + Firming Self Tanner
- Best Gradual Self-Tanner for Darker Skin Tones: Loving Tan Deluxe Gradual Tan
Dr. Song calls this tanning milk an ideal "lightweight foam containing aloe vera." Associate E-Commerce Editor Brooke Knappenberger also stands by this formula. "In the wintertime, when I want more of a subtle glow, I go with this Bondi Sands tanning lotion," she says. "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."
Pros: Editor-approved; Dermatologist-approved; Natural scent; Vegan; Cruelty-free
Cons: Some users don't like that it's fragrant
Knappenberger is also a fan of this moisturizing self-tanner, explaining, "I've tried my fair share of gradual self-tanners over the years, but none of them have left my skin as moisturized as this one from Dolce Glow. I've been using this lotion once a week to jump start my summer tan and it does the job beautifully. At $51, it is on the pricier side, but considering its luxurious texture and gorgeous results, I'd say it's well worth its price tag." Alysa adds that this tinted lotion is full of skin-loving ingredients including jojoba oil, Australian macadamia oil, aloe vera, sodium hyaluronate, and fruit extracts, which she says are hydrating and reparative.
Pros: Editor-approved; Expert-approved; Vegan; Cruelty-free; Free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
Cons: More expensive than most competitors
At under $15, this gradual self-tanner is affordable and effective. Use it in place of your go-to moisturizer for skin that glows from the inside out. It's formulated with ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid, squalene, and almond oil, which cancel out the potential for dryness in DHA-based self-tanners. It also comes in two shades, meaning you can customize your color from the first application.
Pros: Affordable; Comes in more than one shade; Moisturizing; Cruelty-free; Clean; Vegan
Cons: Has a sweet fragrance that some reviewers dislike
Jergens Natural Glow self-tanners have been a mainstay in the tanning industry for a reason—they're easy to apply and look natural on just about every skin tone. The formula comes in options for fair, medium, and deep skin tones, and a variation is made specifically for the face and neck. It's also hydrating enough for regular use on dry skin because it's made with collagen and vitamin E, which hydrate, reduce the appearance of cellulite, and soften fine lines.
Pros: Cruelty-free; Contains hydrating ingredients; works well on mature skin; Options for all skin tones
Cons: Reviewers warn to start small because the color builds significantly in the first 48 hours after application
This gradual-self tanner shade was made with dark skin tones in mind and promises to make skin look tanner and more even after just one application—results that dozens of verified customers attest to in reviews. Its lightweight formula dries quickly and makes a tremendous difference overnight. Because a little goes a long way, reviewers rave that just one bottle lasted them for ages.
Pros: Made with deep skin tones in mind; A little goes a long way; Quick-drying; Fast results
Cons: Some reviewers warn that it's drying; Because a little goes a long way, users should start small
Also Recommended
Dr. Song highly recommends this vegan and cruelty-free formula, explaining that its lightweight, easy-to-spread texture "allows for even application" and that it "contains natural DHA and coconuts with hydrating ingredients like glycerin." It comes in three shades and never leaves a sticky finish.
Pros: Dermatologist-recommended; Free of gluten, phthalates, parabens, and sulfates; Vegan; Cruelty-free
Cons: Some users say they struggled to find a shade that worked for them
Wasser recommends this option from Tanologist, which boasts a vegan, clean, and cruelty-free formula. She says it has a "great color and price, is lightweight, and smells good but isn't overpowering." 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.
Pros: Expert-approved; Clean; Vegan; Cruelty-free; Washes off easily; Buildable; Glowy finish: Dries quickly
Cons: Reviewers write that because it dries so quickly, there isn't much time to build an even finish
The Westmore Beauty Body Coverage Perfector comes in a whopping 13 shades. It has a full-coverage formula that evens skin tone so well that it can cover acne, scars, moles, and even tattoos. Allen loves it, explaining, "It's a transfer-resistant and water-resistant body bronzer that lasts for days. Its dual-acting tanner and body coverage is perfection in a bottle for blemishes, tattoos, and scars. Westmore Beauty also has a blend-and-blur body brush for the application."
Pros: Expert-approved; Comes in many shades; Full-coverage
Cons: May be too thick for some users (i.e., not everyone wants to cover tattoos, freckles, etc.)
Sisley-Paris has a special place in my heart: In my experience, all of their products are smoothing and hydrating but never break me out—and Wasser agrees. "This is a premium gradual tan made with macadamia oil and other incredible ingredients known for nourishing and soothing the skin," she says. "Its formula helps maintain hydration while providing the perfect glow."
Pros: Expert-approved; Hydrating; Buildable; Glowy finish
Cons: Expensive for the small size of the bottle
According to Wasser, this is the perfect option for anyone in need of a two-in-one lotion and self-tanner combination. She says, "It's great for all skin types and those who are looking for a sunkissed glow. It is formulated with fig extract to help keep the skin nourished and hydrated for a longer-lasting tan." It also has a subtle, buildable finish, so you don't have to worry about suddenly finding yourself orange.
Pros: Expert-approved; Great for all skin types; Hydrating; Creamy, lotion-like texture
Cons: Some reviewers found the results too subtle
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 Allen. The bottle is also generously sized, considering it costs less than $15.
Pros: Expert-approved; Affordable; Mitigates visible signs of aging; Hydrating
Cons: Takes several days of consistent use to yield results
Dr. Song loves this option for its use of shea butter and caffeine, which aid with anti-aging. She says that it's also great for people with dry skin because it's hydrating, firming, and lifting 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 nourishing, though, it may feel thick for those with oily skin or who already use several layers of skincare.
Pros: Dermatologist-recommended; Hydrating; Lifting
Cons: May be too thick for oily skin
TikTok users are obsessed with this self-tanning lotion from Tan Luxe, and it's easy 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.
Pros: Expert-approved; Online popularity; Natural finish; Lightweight; Great for all skin types
Cons: Strong smell
Digital Director Jenny Hollander has tried many forms of gradual self-tanner, but these lightweight drops are her all-time favorite. She explains, "These are truly buildable and foolproof (and when it comes to self-tanning, I always manage to mess it up somehow). Year-round, I add a couple of these drops to my moisturizer at the end of my nighttime routine two or three times a week (more if I have a vacation coming up). They never streak, they always look natural, and they can be mixed in with anything: serum, moisturizer, face oils, you name it."
Pros: Editor-approved; Buildable; Fits in with existing skincare routine; Non-streak formula; Affordable
Cons: Requires an extra step (mixing)
You may know Isle of Paradise for their viral self-tanning drops, and while those are great, their self-tanning body butter is the ideal pick for those wanting more gradual results. Knappenberger says, "As a body butter, this formula is even more rich and creamy than the other picks on this list, so if you've got especially dry skin, this gradual self-tanner is right up your alley. After one application, your skin looks more even-toned, and after two (or more) applications, you're left with a natural, glistening tan."
Pros: Editor-approved; Hydrating; Subtle results
Cons: Strong scent; Synthetic fragrance may irritate sensitive skin
Too often, gradual sef-tanners feature the harsh chemical smell of DHA, leading many users (especially those with sensitive noses) to be completely turned off. St. Tropez created this self-tanner to resolve that problem, dialing down the scent of DHA and infusing the formula with the light, refreshing scent of watermelon. The lotion also addresses the drying side effect of many tanners by incorporating hyaluronic acid into its creamy, non-streaky formula.
Pros: Hydrating; No chemical smell; Non-streaky
Cons: Because it contains artificial fragrance, may irritate sensitive skin (patch test first)
Additives such as parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances can irritate sensitive skin and even dry out normal skin types over time. For that reason, Bondi Sands developed this colorless, fragrance-free gradual self-tanner that creates a subtle, glowing tan in only one to three applications. It's also vegan, cruelty-free, and made from 100 percent recyclable plastic.
Pros: Recyclable packaging; Free of potential irritants; Vegan; Cruelty-free; Hydrating
Cons: Some reviewers found the color too strong (start small and wait before reapplying)
If you're traveling and short on space, or if you want to use a self-tanner but don't have time to exfoliate first, these pads may be the best bet for you. Crafted by premium skincare brand Dr. Dennis Gross, they exfoliate and hydrate skin while simultaneously lending it a subtle, glowy tan. Best used on the face, neck, and chest, they're perfect for stowing in your go-bag or simply keeping in your medicine cabinet in case of an emergency.
Pros: Great for travel; Free of parabens and phthalates; Improves complexion; Vegan
Cons: Single-use, so not sustainable
For a subtle, gradual tan on your face, neck, and even upper bust, consider this lightweight tanning water from St. Tropez. Dr. Song counts herself a fan of it, calling it a "lightweight mist with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants" that hydrates as it tones. And at only 2.7 ounces, it's TSA-friendly and perfect for bringing on vacation.
Pros: Dermatologist-recommended; Award-winning; Cruelty-free; Vegan; Lightweight
Cons: Users complain that the sprayer is delicate
This bronzer from Clinique is meant to give you a subtle, sun-kissed complexion that makes it look like you've just spent the day at the beach. Wasser adds that it's also dermatologist-tested and oil-free, making it a great solution for those with sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin. She says, "It's a tinted lotion that gives you instant color while light tan develops." Plus, it works well on all skin types and shades.
Pros: Expert-approved; Immediate and long-term results; Clinically tested; Oil-free
Cons: Some reviewers found it too pigmented, so they mixed it with their moisturizer, sunscreen, or serum of choice.
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.
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 don't have to worry about it staining your clothes.
Meet the Expert
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.
