20 Best Natural, Organic, And Non-Toxic Self Tanners – 2024
Give your skin a natural-looking tan with these self-tanners made from natural ingredients.
Terri Watts is a highly qualified skin care specialist with over 24 years of experience in the beauty industry. In 2005, driven by a commitment to empower others, Terri launched her own clean beauty skin care line. This line is more than just about achieving radiant skin; it's a testament to her deep passion for making a difference.
Read full bio of Terri L Watts
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
Staying in the sun for hours to get the perfect tan is no longer the best way to get tanned. Why roast yourself out for hours when you can do skin tanning in under an hour with the best organic self-tanners for your face and body? If you are new to self tanners or wash-off tanners, be aware that they take a while to get used to, and your skin may even have reactions.
A safer option is to try organic self tanners that have natural, plant-based ingredients as they do not pose the risk of radical damage to your skin. Most of them are made without any harmful or toxic chemicals and do not transfer onto your clothes or the sink/tub while offering you a natural glow! So, go ahead and check out the 20 best organic self tanners right now.
In This Article
Is Organic Self-Tanner Safe?
Organic self-tanners as personal care products are considered safe for use because they are primarily formulated with natural and plant-based ingredients. But, if you are spending extra to buy organic and sunless tanning products, make sure you’re getting what you paid for. Though self-tanners claim to be “organic,” they have up to 30% synthetic materials. The best way to verify is that they have the USDA Organic Seal on the label. This seal guarantees that all the ingredients are free from all the synthetic and harmful chemicals. It will also help you judge whether an organic self-tanner is safe or not.
To make sure that your favorite self tanner is organic and uses a safe tanning formula, here is a list of ingredients that you need to avoid.
Ingredients To Avoid In An Organic Self Tanner
- Parabens are used as preservatives in cosmetics but they can cause various bad health issues! They also sensitize the skin, causing allergic reactions.
- Mineral oil, a petroleum byproduct, causes dryness and impairs the development of skin cells. In addition, it is comedogenic and carcinogenic. The thick consistency of mineral oil also clogs the pores and can lead to acne. In addition, it contains many toxic chemicals that can harm your skin and cause premature aging or even cancer.
- Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate is infamous for clogging pores. This toxin releases an even more toxic substance called formaldehyde.
- Formaldehyde is dangerous in skincare products due to its carcinogenic and poisonous nature.
- Synthetic fragrances and dyes contain chemicals that cause allergic reactions and irritation, especially on the skin and lungs. Artificial fragrances are also derived from petrochemicals and may cause cancer in extreme cases.
- Amyl acetate another harsh bleaching agent that can harm your skin. Please avoid using products with amyl acetate in them.This is another compound that clogs your pores and causes acne. It can also irritate your eyes and skin. This ingredient is particularly bad for the skin. It can cause acne and aggravate contact dermatitis. It might lead to severe allergic reactions as well.
Skin care specialist Terri L Watts, adds, “I agree! Using products containing parabens, mineral oils and other toxic chemicals instantly eliminates all positive effects of any natural ingredients in that same formula. A natural oil like Argan oil is an absolute must in any self tanner that I use.
Now that you’re aware of the ingredients that should be avoided, let’s look at specific things you need to consider before buying an organic self-tanner.
What To Look For In A Natural Self Tanner- Buying Guide
- Ingredients
Though there are many decent options available in the market, choosing an organic self-tanner can be tricky as you need to focus on the ingredients list thoroughly. Make sure that the product you purchase is devoid of all the harmful ingredients listed above. It should be formulated mainly with natural and plant-based ingredients. Here are the ingredients that you can look out for:
- DHA
Dihydroxyacetone is a sugar that binds to the pigment in your skin. This reaction changes the color of the skin to give you that coveted tanned look. While all tanning products use DHA, natural tanners use DHA derived from plant sources.
- Green Tea
Green tea has many health benefits. It is loaded with antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals. In addition, it is perfect for the skin as it nourishes and protects the skin cells.
- Beta Carotene
Beta carotene is a plant-based antioxidant that gives an orangish-yellow color to plants. For example, this pigment is responsible for the orange color of carrots. It is used in a diluted form in self-tanners to create that bronze glow.
- Argan Oil
The hydrating and moisturizing benefits of argan oil for skin and hair are pretty popular. It is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from sun damage and helps it look soft and smooth.
- Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea contains a natural pigment that imparts a deep reddish-brown color when it comes in contact with your skin. It is used in self-tanners for that beautiful hue. It also softens the skin and protects it as it contains antioxidants.
- Formula
The best part about self-tanners is that they are available in different formulations and consistencies. There are self-tanning lotions that start working typically after 6-8 hours of use, and it is also an excellent option for everyday use. There are in-shower tanning lotions too that need to be used when your body is wet. Tanning mists are perfect for all the hard-to-reach areas. Just evenly spray it all over your body by keeping it 12 inches away, and you’ll get desirable coverage within a few hours. Self-tanner towelettes which are pre-soaked with self-tanners. You just need to unfold it and wipe it across for an even glow. Other than these, there are self-tanner mousse, serums, and drops available with a lightweight formula that gets instantly absorbed and gives you the perfect glow. With so many options, you can choose a formulation according to your preference.
In the following section, you’ll learn about the 20 best self-tanners that are worth trying. Keep scrolling and read ahead!
Best Organic Self Tanners
Best Buildable:Beauty By Earth Self Tanner
Are you looking for that perfect golden glow? Beauty by Earth Self Tanner is here to meet your needs. It is made with organic, natural, and skin-loving ingredients. This sunless tanning lotion is a perfect alternative to chemical-filled tanners. It gives you a sun-kissed glow without any sunburn, premature signs of aging, or risk of skin cancer with visible results noted by several reviewers. Its regular application gives you a bronzed tan look as it contains DHA (a natural omega-3 fatty acid), which is the active tanning ingredient. This tanner also contains moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, aloe vera, jojoba oil, coconut oil, green tea, and witch hazel. Terri L Watts adds, “These 6 ingredients make this Beauty by Earth self tanner a top contender for me along with the ease of application. It’s also non-staining and great for all skin types, which propels it into a top choice for most.”
It has a light lotion-like consistency that spreads evenly, giving you a smooth and natural tanned look. You can easily hide stretch marks, scars, and veins with this tanner. Check out the detailed review of a tester’s experience of using the Beauty By Earth Self Tanner in this video.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Cranberries, Vanilla, Coconut oil, Organic witch hazel, Jojoba oil, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Buildable
- Works on all skin types
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Non-toxic
Cons
- May leave streaks on the skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 7,869 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
Best Sun Protection:Skinerals Californium Sunless Tanning Mousse
This amazing self-tanner is a 100% natural and safe organic tanner mousse. The Skinerals Californium Sunless Tanning Mousse is perfect for people with pale or light skin. It gives you a warm bronze glow that lasts for almost a week. It also protects your skin from the harmful UV rays that can cause premature aging. In addition, it contains aloe vera and glycerin to moisturize and heal. It has natural skin colorants, Indian gooseberry, acai berry, fig extract, green tea, white tea, and goji berry extracts. This tanning mousse gives you a gorgeous glow without streaks, blotches, or an unnatural orange tint. It is so light that it can be applied under makeup, and it does not cause acne or breakouts.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Acai berry, Indian gooseberry, Glycerin, Fig extract, Goji berry extract, Green tea, and White tea extracts
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Suitable for all skin types
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Petroleum-free
- Aerosol-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- Takes a long time to dry
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 4,152 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Best Streak-Free Application:Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam
Get a golden glow in less than 2 hours with the Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam. It has a fast-drying formula that does not feel sticky on application. It has a unique combination of ingredients that include raw virgin coconut, plant botanicals, and amino acids that leave your skin hydrated. It blurs pigmentation and stretch marks to give your skin a smooth and even-toned look. This bronzing foam also contains antioxidant-rich ingredients like fig, banana, papaya, and cocoa that improve the signs of aging.
It is developed with a green-grey base to offer a natural-looking, golden finish and does not leave any orangish tones. The tropical mango-guava fragrance gives you a vacay-like feel. It develops a buildable golden color within 2 hours of application, and the Color Guide Technology offers an even finish. You can pick your favorite from 3 shades- medium, dark, and ultra-dark.
Key Ingredients: Raw virgin coconut, Amino acids, Fig, Banana, Papaya, and Cocoa
Pros
- Fast-drying
- Streak-free application
- Non-sticky
- Fast results
- PETA approved
- Cruelty-free
- Silicone-free
- Gluten-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Toxin-free
Cons
- Might stain clothes
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 8,308 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Best Buildable | Skinerals Californium Sunless Tanning Mousse Best Sun Protection | Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam Best Streak-Free Application | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | All | All |
| Dimensions | 2 x 2 x 7 inches | - | 7.72 x 1.89 x 1.89 inches |
| Weight | 8 Ounces | - | 6.35 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 7,869 | 4,152 | 8,308 |
| Price | $34.99 | $29.99 | $34.8 |
Best Transfer-Proof:St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist
If you want that perfectly sun-kissed complexion for your face, try out the St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist. It offers instant hydration all year-round. It contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin, hibiscus extract for its antioxidant properties, and green mandarin water to refresh and revive the skin. In addition, this face mist allows a streak-free application, does not have a self-tan smell, and does not rinse off. Just spritz this spray under, over, or without makeup, and you’re good to go! Look at this video for the tester’s experience and an honest review of the St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Hibiscus extract, and Green mandarin water
Pros
- Lightweight
- Streak-free
- Transfer-proof
- Non-comedogenic
- Easy to use
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 664 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Best Non-Sticky:Tanceuticals CC Self Tanning Body Lotion
The award-winning Tanceuticals CC Self-Tanning Body Lotion gives you a flawless-looking sunless tan without leaving an orange tone or streaks. It is trusted by stylists and enriched with natural ingredients like acai berry, argan oil, aloe vera, mango seed butter, grape seed oil, pomegranate extract, macadamia nut oil, shea butter, argan oil, sweet almond extract, cocoa seed butter, and vitamin E. Its luxurious formula improves the overall appearance of your skin. It is easy to use, dries quickly, and does not leave any sticky residue.
This self-tanner lasts for an average of 6-7 days. It is free from artificial coloring ingredients and does not stain your clothes, towels, or bedsheets. It is recommended by the leading medical associations of the world like Mayo Clinic, Skin Cancer Foundation and American Academy of Dermatology. Watch this video of Tanceuticals CC Self Tanning Body Lotion for a clear review about the tester’s experience of using this product.
Key Ingredients: Acai berry, Argan oil, Mango seed butter, Shea butter, Aloe vera, Sweet almond extract, Pomegranate extract, Grapeseed oil, Macadamia nut oil, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Easy to use
- Fast absorbing
- Non-sticky
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Artificial colorant-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 1,793 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Best Lightweight:Golden Star Beauty Self Tanner Dry Oil
Golden Star Beauty Self Tanner Dry Oil is made with certified organic oils such as argan oil, coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil. It helps in gradually developing a healthy-looking tan. This colorless oil is easy to use and offers a natural and buildable glow. In addition, it contains intense moisturizers like organic aloe vera and hyaluronic acid that hydrate the skin. It is streak-free and does not run off on your clothes or sheets. In addition, this lightweight lotion dries quickly and is perfect for all skin types.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Argan oil, Evening primrose oil, Coconut oil, Jojoba oil, Avocado oil, and Macadamia oil
Pros
- Streak-free
- Non-sticky
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Dyes-free
- Gluten-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Vegan
- Transfer-resistant
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Leaves an orange tinge
"I have become a fan of this self-tanner from the moment I used it. The coverage is unbelievably amazing. It is not sticky and the finish is very natural. It doesn't smell like most tanners do. Make sure you wait for it to dry completely before putting on clothes."
Pro TipBest Quick-Absorbing:Miami Gorgeous Self Tanning Mousse
The consistency of the organic Miami Gorgeous Tanning Mousse makes you stunning. This tanning mousse is packed with organic ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, olive oil, vitamins (A, C, D, and E), elderflower extract, and jojoba oil that nourish and moisturize your skin. In addition, the Radiant Bronzing Complex gives you an instant bronze glow. It can be used both on your face and body. This paraben-free self-tanner is a fast-absorbing formula that offers streak-free application.
Terri L Watts, says, “My top pick is Miami Gorgeous tanning mouse as it is paraben free and contains argan oil along with many other skin-loving oils for ultra moisturized, supple skin. A little goes a long way, dries fast, streak-free, doesn’t stain clothes and no orange tint – what’s not to love.”
Key Ingredients: Argan oil and Pure Vitamins
Pros
- Fast-absorbing
- Streak-free
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 1,784 rave reviews on Amazon.
Best For All Skin Types:Bahama Tan Sunless Lotion
You can customize the color of your tan by diluting Bahama Tan Sunless Lotion with any moisturizer for a lighter subtle glow or build it up for a more sun-kissed look. This flexibility helps you use this self-tanner according to your mood and need. It contains ecologically certified organic self-tanning product and approved DHA that gives a tinted tan and full coverage that lasts from 4 to 7 days. This natural tanner is made with food-grade preservatives and organic ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, and Monoi de Tahiti oil that moisturize your skin and improve its texture. It is suitable for people with sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Coconut oil, Argan oil, and Monoi de Tahiti Oil
Pros
- Suits all skin types
- Streak-free
- Non-GMO
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Fades quickly
Best Moisturizing:Botanic Tree Self Tanner
Botanic Tree Self Tanner contains 100 % organic ingredients and has a quick-drying formula specially formulated for people with sensitive skin. It contains botanical extracts from apricot, grapeseed, passion fruit, moringa, linseed, coconut, avocado, vanilla, rosemary, arnica flower, and avocado. The shea butter in this tanning lotion provides moisture to the skin. This clean and organic self-tanner for sensitive skin also doubles as a bronzer! It is one of the most affordable natural self-tanners available on the market.
Key Ingredients: Apricot, Grapeseed, Passion fruit, Moringa, Linseed, Coconut, Avocado, Vanilla, Rosemary, Arnica flower, and Avocado
Pros
- 100% vegan
- Non-staining
- Cruelty-free
- Non-greasy
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Blotchy and uneven tanning
Best Long-Lasting Effect:Naturena Self Tanner Mousse
The Naturena Self Tanner Mousse has a lightweight formula that offers a long-lasting tan. It is enriched with argan oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, rosehip oil, grapeseed oil, and avocado oil that hydrates and nourishes the skin. Its Advanced Color Complex gives the skin a flawless, sunkissed, bronze finish. This mousse leaves no streaks, blotches, or orange tones after application. This long-lasting organic self-tanner also does not have any fake tan smell.
Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, Rosehip oil, Grapeseed oil, and Avocado oil
Pros
- Lightweight
- Streak-free
- No blotches
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- PETA approved
Cons
- None
"This lightweight self tanner mousse has been my favorite since the time I started using it. It offers a lasting tan and nourishes the skin. It is streak-free and also offers hydration and a flawless finish."
Isle Of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops
Get the perfect, radiant, and sun-kissed glow with the Isle Of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops. These drops can be used on both your face and body, and whether you are new to tanning or are looking for a lighter tan, this self-tanning drop will be the ideal choice. It is infused with ultra-hydrating ingredients like coconut, chia seed, and avocado oil. This product can be mixed with serums, oils, and even foundation. Take 3 drops for radiance, 6 drops for a sunkissed glow, 9 drops for a golden glow, and 12 drops for a bronze effect.
Key Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Chia Seed, Avocado Oil, Aloe Leaf Extract, and Grapefruit Peel Oil
Pros
- Offers hydration
- Streak-free
- Non-staining
- No odor
- Travel-friendly
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 6,222 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
This self-tanning lotion contains organic ingredients that offer anti-aging benefits to the skin while imparting a beautiful golden glow. Vita Liberata Self Tanning Gradual Lotion has ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera. It is a good option for people with dry or sensitive skin. It also contains marula oil, which has omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids that improve your skin’s elasticity. This self-tanning lotion delivers 72 hours of hydration and works as a daily moisturizer for soft and nourished skin.
The certified botanical extracts of lychee, licorice root, and raspberry have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help your skin look soft and supple. It also uses Odour Remove Technology to ensure that this tanner smells lovely. Use this daily to get your desired shade of tan.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Shea butter, Lychee, Licorice, Raspberry, and Marula oil
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Transfer-resistant
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Toxin-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Fades quickly
The Invisi Foaming Tan Water by Vita Liberata has an organic formula that offers a natural-looking tan without any risk of transfer. It is infused with organic botanical extracts that leave your skin hydrated and nourished. On application, it gets quickly absorbed into the skin and dries fast. It contains glycerin, aloe vera, raspberry, licorice root extract, pomegranate, ginkgo, cucumber, witch hazel, papaya, bladderwrack, melon, grape, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid.
These ingredients have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties, and are rich in antioxidants that reverse signs of aging, offer nourishment, hydration, make the skin firm, and improve your skin’s overall appearance. The is a natural-looking organic self-tanner as well as a fast-drying formula that locks moisture for 72 hours. As a result, it provides a long-lasting tan that lasts for up to 7 days.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Aloe vera, Raspberry, Licorice root extract, and Pomegranate
Pros
- UV protection
- Non-sticky
- Transfer-resistant
- Fast-drying formula
Cons
- None
"This tanning water gradually foams up as soon as I massage it on my skin. It hydrates my skin while building a natural tan effect. The formula is non-sticky and it does not stain my clothes. The best part is that it does not have any foul tan smell."
Coola Sunless Tan Dry Oil Mist
Coola Sunless Tan Dry Oil Mist is very convenient to use as it sprays evenly and dries quickly on the skin to create a natural golden tan. The dewy glow lasts for three days, but it can be used every day as it is formulated for daily use. It contains natural DHA derived from sugar beets and antioxidants that protect your skin from cellular damage. In addition, this dry oil mist contains argan oil, vitamin C, hibiscus, and chamomile extracts that calm and soothe the skin. They moisturize your skin and protect it from the harmful UV rays. Use this organic self-tanner with buildable color- Coola Sunless Tan Dry Body Oil for that medium to dark sunless tan!
Key Ingredients: Argan oil, Vitamin C, Hibiscus, and Chamomile extract
Pros
- Buildable
- Lightweight
- Fast-absorbing
- Streak-free
- Transfer-resistant
- Reef-friendly
Cons
- May dry out your skin
"This tanner offers a gradual, natural-looking glow and a nice fragrance. It works well for fair skin without the orange hue, but apply carefully to avoid streaks and stains on clothes. It is a decent option when you're not in a hurry and want a natural product."
The Caribbean Sol Beach Colours Natural Self Tanner is packed with moisturizing ingredients and the goodness of natural DHA that helps produce a natural-looking tan. The fragrance-free organic self-tanner formula is enriched with aloe leaf extract, organic shea butter, organic squalene oil, cucumber, mandarin oil, natural sorbate, and natural vitamin E from corn. However, you need to exfoliate your skin for the best results before applying this self-tanner and keep reapplying every 2 days to enhance the tan.
Key Ingredients: Aloe leaf extract, Organic shea butter, Organic squalane oil, Cucumber, Mandarin oil, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Biodegradable
- Chemical-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Might look orange
"This self-tanner with anti-aging benefits offers good hydration and a subtle glow. It does not turn orange either. It can be used with face lotion for a natural look. Just remember to wash your hands thoroughly after application to avoid staining."
If you want an indulgent experience, try out the Josie Maran Argan Liquid Gold Self Tanning Oil that adds the perfect glow to your skin. The formula is a unique blend of 100% pure argan oil that offers intense nourishment to the skin. In addition, natural DHA gives a healthy-looking, bronzed glow with a semi-matte finish.
It comes with a luxurious, plush mitt that gives you a blissful and streak-free application experience. In addition, it has a natural fragrance that feels refreshing.
Key Ingredients: Aloe leaf extract, Argan oil, Green tea extract, Coconut fruit extract, and Apricot kernel oil
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Streak-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- PEG-free
Cons
- None
"This long-lasting self tanning oil has been effective for me. It offers a bronze glow with a semi-matte finish. It nourishes the skin and comes with a plush mitt, making the application process easier."
Bahama Tan Control Your Glow Gradual Self Tanner lets you control the intensity of your tan. The customizable aspect of this tanner makes it a popular option in the market for that perfect natural tan. It is made with pure natural and organic ingredients such as safflower seed oil, babassu oil, shea butter, and argan oil. These ingredients moisturize, hydrate, and nourish the skin for a healthy and flawless look. It also contains DHA, a natural tanning agent that is Ecocert approved. Thus, this organic self-tanner for all skin types is great in what it does. In addition, this self-tanner has a natural coconut scent that refreshes your senses. The tan lasts for 4-7 days without leaving any blotches or orange color.
Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Safflower seed oil, Argan oil, and Babassu oil
Pros
- Streak-free
- Lanolin-free
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- PABA-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Cruelty-free
- Filler-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- May cause irritation
True Natural Self Tan is a go-to product meant for both face and body. This self-tanner is all-natural and free from toxic chemicals. Its formula is enriched with certain fruits, veggies, and naturally occurring sugars to react with the amino acids in your skin… If you’re looking for a deeper tan, reapply after every 3-4 hours until you get the desired results.
The tan appears within 3-4 hours and lasts anywhere from 3 -10 days. It also contains natural anti-aging ingredients to help protect your skin. In addition, it hydrates your skin with jojoba oil, aloe vera, and green tea extracts while protecting your skin from environmental damage.
Key Ingredients: Jojoba oil, Aloe vera, Lavender, and Green tea extract
Pros
- Non-streaking
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Synthetic color-free
- Petrolatum-free
Cons
- None
"This product has been my go-to for years now. It's so versatile and strikes a nice balance in its formulation. It feels lightweight and offers a natural finish that doesn't settle into fine lines. It applies smoothly, particularly over a moisturizer, and I love the lasting power through the day."
The Whish Self Tanner is a body butter with natural and skin firming ingredients that keep your skin moisturized. On application, it leaves your skin with a luscious coconut oil smell. It is enriched with goji berry, soap bark extract, and organic pomegranate extracts. It also contains organic shea butter, mango butter, and aloe vera. Kigelia African fruit, seaweed extract, and coffee arabica extracts in the product increases the firmness of your skin. This self-tanner offers a streak-free and radiant glow. Its 2-in-1 formula works gradually to tighten and moisturize your skin.
Key Ingredients: Goji berry, Soap bark extract, Aloe vera, Pomegranate, and Shea butter
Pros
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- DEA-free
- TEA-free
- Petrochemical-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Might be streaky
Thermalabs Natural Self Tanner
Thermalabs Natural Self Tanner gives you a tan in four hours that lasts up to two weeks! It contains organic ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and linden blossom extracts that soothe your skin while nourishing it. Rooibos tea and green tea extracts in the product are potent antioxidants that protect the skin from the harmful UV rays that can cause sunburns, and redness. It also contains Melissa extracts that impart freshness to your skin, leaving it feeling silky soft and beautiful.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Chamomile extract, Green tea extract, Rooibos tea, and Linden blossom
Pros
- Natural fragrance
- Non-streaking
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Difficult to apply
"This product applies smoothly to my skin without developing streaks. It develops a gorgeous golden brown tan in just 4 hours. The effect lasts for multiple weeks and leaves my skin feeling moisturized."
This was our list of the 20 best organic self-tanners. Now, here are a few steps on how you can apply a self-tanner.
How To Apply A Self Tanner?
Irrespective of the formula that you choose, the rules of getting an even, sun-tanned glow are the same. The steps are as follows:
- Exfoliate
Before applying a self-tanner, use a washcloth to exfoliate the skin. An exfoliating product will help you get rid of all the dead skin cells. Thoroughly exfoliate the areas where your skin is thickest, especially on the elbows, knees, and ankles.
- Dry your skin
After exfoliating and washing your skin, use a towel to pat dry. Drying your skin before you apply a self-tanner allows even application.
- Apply in sections
Apply the self-tanner in separate sections (such as the arms, then legs, followed by the torso). Then, massage it gently on your skin in a circular motion.
- Wash your hands after each section
Avoid getting orange-colored palms by washing your hands with soap and water after applying the self-tanner to each section of your body.
- Blend at your wrists and ankles
If you want a more natural and even look, lightly extend the tanner from your wrists to your hands and from your ankles to your feet.
- Dilute over your joints
Dilute the self-tanner on the knees, ankles, and elbows as these areas absorb more self-tanner than the rest of the skin. Lightly rub those areas with a damp towel or apply a thin layer of lotion on top of the self-tanner.
- Give your skin time to dry
Applying a self-tanner requires time. Wait for at least 10-15 minutes before getting dressed. For the next 3 hours, preferably wear loose clothing and try to avoid sweating.
- Apply sunscreen every day
You still need to protect your skin with sunscreen. Be sure that your sunscreen has SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection (UVA/UVB protection), and is water-resistant.
Infographic: How To Choose The Best Organic Self Tanner
Self tanners can help you achieve the beach glow of your dreams in the comfort of your home. However, choosing the best product is essential for getting a good tan. The search can get confusing, but knowing exactly what to look for can help you zero in on the ideal product. Check out the infographic below to learn more about the key aspects to keep in mind while buying an organic self tanner.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Standing for long hours in the sun for a perfect tan is the traditional way of tanning. But with modern organic self tanners, we can obtain bronzed skin from dull skin in no time, and from the comfort of our homes. For a natural and streak-free tan, opt for the Beauty By Earth Self Tanner, or if you prefer a lightweight and fast-drying formula, the Skinerals Californium Sunless Tanning Mousse is the way to go. There’s also the Golden Star Beauty Self Tanner Dry Oil that’s a colorless formula offering a buildable, radiant sun-kissed glow. Unlike regular self-tanners, organic alternatives are devoid of harsh chemicals and do not irritate or cause breakouts on the skin. However, consider tanners that come with a USDA organic label to ensure streak-free results. Avoid products that leave an orange tint or have an overpowering fragrance. Go for products with positive customer reviews and conduct a patch test before application to check for skin sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which organic sunless tanner is the best for me?
Beauty By Earth Self Tanner, Skinerals Californium Sunless Tanning Mousse, and Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam might be some of the best options to choose from when it comes to organic sunless tanners.
Will these tanners make you look darker over time?
Whether your skin will become darker over time depends on the kind of tan that you’re looking for. There are various products to give you a golden or a bronze glow. Some also require reapplication within 2-3 hours to get a buildable tan. Usually, a fake tan lasts for 4-7 days before it fades off.
How long does it take for natural self-tanners to work?
Self-tanners usually take around 8-12 hours to work.
Does fake tan age your skin?
No, fake tanning or using self-tanners in limited amounts does not age your skin. Fake tanning involves ‘low level’ oxidation that will not cause skin damage and cell aging unless you go overboard. Also, fake tanning products do not harm your skin as long as you do not inhale or ingest the spray.
Does organic self-tanner affect hormones?
No. However, when used excessively (3 to 4 times a week), organic self-tanners containing parabens may cause hormonal imbalances and lead to early puberty or cancer.
Is it safe to use a self-tanner every day?
No. It is safe to use a self-tanner to keep the gorgeous glow, but apply it not more than once a week.
Do self-tanners cause infertility?
No. Although self-tanners are a safe alternative to sunbeds, products with harmful chemicals may pose a health risk.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She loves using organic skincare products and conducted thorough research to compile this list of the best organic self-tanners. She also went through brand websites to study user reviews and analyze the ingredients to pick the perfect ones for her readers. These products are safe and offer a natural-looking glow to the skin.
- Best Drugstore Self-Tanners
- Best Self Tanners For Beginners That Give Your Perfect, Streak-Free Glow
- Reasons Why You Should Use A Sunscreen
- Best Tan Extenders
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