By providing your information, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy. We use vendors that may also process your information to help provide our services. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Self-tanning is probably the best way to avoid the sun’s harmful effects (for both your skin and your physical health). If you’re a fan of the bronzy glow, DIY self-tanning is the way to go. Besides, if you don’t already know, sunless tanning also offers a slow of “off label” beauty benefits to offer as well, from concealing bruises and scars and creating a subtle contour (beginners shouldn’t attempt this though). Unfortunately, finding natural-looking self-tanners that won’t leave your body and skin looking like a looking fake and bright orange isn’t exactly a fool-proof feat, which is precisely why using a gradual self-tanning product is the safest (and most user-friendly) product to try.
Gradual self-tanners let you build up your color and coverage to your desired level and color for your skin tone, rather than giving you an instant and at times, irreversible (at least for five days or so) result. And, this risk is even more heightened if you happen to have a fair to light skin tone. Gradual self-tanners are basically the most foolproof sunless formula you can get your hands—there’s nothing more risk-free on the market at the moment unless you head to a professional. Scroll through to check out our favorite beginner-friendly formulas that won’t leave you looking like a walking mishap.
Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
STYLECASTER’s mantra is ‘Style To The People’— and our mission is to be an accessible, inclusive, ahead-of-the-trend destination for millennial and Gen Z women who want to live with style and substance. Our fashion, beauty and lifestyle coverage is equal parts informative and inspiring, and at once aspirational yet attainable. If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, we may receive an affiliate commission.

This gradual self-tanner is designed specifically for the face, giving your skin a subtle and buildable glow that looks sun-kissed and natural. This formula is also excellent because it contains SPF protection as well.

This gradual self-tanning lotion gives you a subtle glow overtime. The tinted formula also gives you an instant bronzed look that doesn’t transfer onto clothing and furniture.

Infused with hydrating ingredients (including Vitamin C, Shae Butter, and Kakadu Plum) this creamy self-tanning lotion nourishes the skin and prevents premature fading, streaking, and discoloration.
By providing your information, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy. We use vendors that may also process your information to help provide our services. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.