Whenever the sun-filled days of summer roll around, many start working on getting that sun-kissed glow for trips to the beach. And nowadays, you can pull this off without sunbathing or a tanning bed. The answer lies in using the top organic self tanners for self tanning.
Self tanners simplify sunless or self tanning, as they’re easy to control and apply. Conventional formulations, however, usually consist of harmful or harsh chemicals and additives that may irritate or even damage your skin. Cue in the organic self tanner: all-natural solutions that are both skin- and environment- friendly.
Best Organic Self Tanners Comparison Table
What is an Organic Self Tanner?
Organic self tanners provide a greener and safer alternative to sunless or self tanning. They are also often referred to as natural self tanners because they mostly use fruit- and plant-based ingredients.
Compared to conventional self tanners, an organic sunless tanner helps protect not just your skin, but your overall health too. In the next section, I’ll be discussing the ingredients the best self tanner should and shouldn’t have, as well as the different factors to consider when choosing one.
The Benefits of Using Organic Self Tanners
You’re probably wondering: with the many different types of self tanners out there, why go for organic ones?
With an organic self tanner, you do not need to worry about its ingredients and what it contains. They only contain all-organic ingredients that are safe AND healthy for the skin. With its all-natural formulas, there’s minimal chance of your skin negatively reacting as you tan. Furthermore, the skin would nourish your skin further, keeping it smooth, hydrated, and free from blemishes or imperfections.
It has no toxins, nor will you have problems with sun-damaged skin since you won’t need to go under the sun to achieve a darker complexion. Also, you’ll be happy to know that just like the typical self tanner, organic-based ones have the similar benefits aside from natural-looking tans, such as streak-free features with minimal to no staining. But organic is always better for its healthier content, which is why it’s always worth the extra bucks (if you see pricier ones!).
Nowadays, you won’t even need to take so much time searching for organic-based self tanners anymore anyway, as more companies are looking into manufacturing products that are cruelty-free and made with their consumers’ safety in mind. You have more variety today, and all you need to do is to figure out which is best for you, with the help of my guide!
Top 10 Best Organic Self Tanners Reviews
Looking for sunless tanning options that are safer and greener than conventional self tanners can be overwhelming, especially if you have not tried organic or natural self tanners before. So here are five popular picks that can help you in your quest for the best organic self tanner for fair skin.
1. Beauty by Earth Self Tanner
Pros
✔ A self tanner that can give the bronze color that looks natural
✔ Sun-kissed rather than orange shade with good consistency
✔ Streak free features and has very minimal stains known by Beauty by Earth
Cons
✘ It will take time for the liquid to soak in, but would dry quickly
This Beauty By Earth self tanner gives your skin a natural-looking bronze color that suits those who prefer a light to medium tint.
It’s more of a sun-kissed shade and less of the orange tone often associated with the dreaded fake tanned look. On top of that, it pampers you with moisturizing and gentle natural ingredients, including aloe vera, argan oil, coconut oil, green tea extract, jojoba oil, shea butter and witch hazel. The formulation’s sweet coconut smell is light from the shea butter and oils, although some find it off putting.
This affordable best self tanner has a thick consistency, similar to white sunscreen. It takes a while for the liquid to soak in, and you will need to rub it in thoroughly to ensure that there are no light streaks left and that it does not build up around your elbows or knees.
The drying time is about 15 minutes, and the wait time before water exposure is four hours. Since the tanner is buildable, you can apply another layer on another day to get a darker shade.
Best Features
✔ Beauty by Earth creates a natural-looking light to medium tan.
✔ It is packed with nourishing ingredients that make for the best face tanners
✔ You only need to wait 15 minutes for the coat to dry
✔ You can take a shower four hours after you complete your self-tanning session
2. Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun
Pros
✔ Natural self tanner that gives you a light brown tint, does not look like a fake tan
✔ Streak free and feels smooth on the skin, easy to use and apply
✔ Good self tanning product with a nice scent
Cons
✘ The self tanner doesn’t dry as quickly as you would expect
✘ Deepens over time and requires reapplication for darker shades
The Jergens Self Tanning Mousse wins over users with its easy, more error-proof application. To begin with, it is light and airy and goes on smoothly with a sweet fruity scent that is light and fresh.
The light brown tint lets you see which areas you have covered and which ones you may have missed, so you’re more likely to pull off an even application and less likely to end up with missed spots or streaks.
What’s unique about this self tanner though is the “instant” tan it creates. Once the mousse is blended in, your skin becomes a shade darker right away.
The tan skin color will then deepen over the next few hours, but you can also re-apply the mousse the next day if you would like a darker shade. It usually lasts four to five days.
One common complaint, however, is that it does not dry as fast as expected and feels sticky on the skin.
Best Features
✔ It is light, airy and easy to apply
✔ The brown tint allows for even, streak-free coverage
✔ You can see results right after one coat
✔ It has a nice fresh and fruity scent
3. Golden Star Beauty Self Tanner
Pros
✔ Sunless tanning lotion that can provide a golden glow
✔ Made with the best natural ingredients like organic botanicals
✔ Suitable for all skin types for its healthy formula
Cons
✘ The tanning product may have an overwhelming vanilla scent for some users
✘ Feels like tanning water, but still non-greasy feel
The Golden Star Beauty Self Tanner stands out thanks to its skin-friendly vegan formula. It is packed with organic botanicals like avocado, jojoba and macadamia oils that nourish and soften your skin. It also contains anti-aging ingredients and hyaluronic acid, which helps with moisture retention.
The serum itself is a clear and colorless dry oil, making it easier to rub on than gel, liquid or mousse types. It may be more watery than what you’re typically used to, but it is lightweight, non-greasy and dries in just 10 to 15 minutes. Plus, uneven spots and streaks are unlikely, and this best natural sunless tanner has a nice cinnamon vanilla scent.
In terms of color, you can look forward to a natural-looking subtle bronze glow. If you prefer a darker tone, you can simply apply a heavier layer or reapply over a couple of days. For a number of users, it also helped even out their complexion, making their skin look like it has been airbrushed. It takes 24 hours to set fully, but won’t stain your sheets or clothing.
Apart from these, every purchase includes a freebie in the form of an e-book on self-tanning best practices.
Best Features
✔ Its natural ingredients help keep your skin soft, hydrated and young-looking.
✔ Anti Aging Sunless Tanning Serum
✔ Contains Acid Organic Oils & Vitamin B5
✔ It is a clear dry oil that applies easily.
✔ It is non-sticky, lightweight and quick-drying.
✔ You can expect an even, airbrushed-like glow.
✔ It comes with a free self-tanning ebook.
4. Bahama Tan Medium Self Tanning Lotion
Pros
✔ Has a feel of a tanning oil and suitable for sensitive skin or all skin types
✔ Contains organic ingredients like shea butter and cocoa oil for better skin care
✔ Can be used as the best natural self tanner, lasting up to five days
Cons
✘ The tanning lotion has a tropical smell that not many love, takes time to fade
✘ It has a shimmer, which may make it difficult to apply
The Bahana Tan Self Tanner is formulated using eco-certified DHA and moisturizing non-GMO ingredients, including argan oil, cocoa oil, monoi oil and shea butter. There are zero parabens and petrochemicals.
The lotion has a light brown color, a thick and creamy consistency, and a slight shimmer. It is buildable, but may take a few minutes to get absorbed completely. And with its shimmer, applications could get a bit messy, so a tanning mitt is definitely recommended. The drying time is about 30 minutes.
For many users, the best part about this gradual self tanner is the smooth natural bronze color it produces. While it suits those looking for a light to medium tan, you can achieve a darker tan with reapplications.
It lasts three to five days, fading evenly and without splotches. The light tropical smell fades slowly as the color develops.
Best Features
✔ It uses moisturizing non-GMO ingredients and is paraben-free
✔ Streak Free
✔ It produces a light to medium natural-looking bronze color
✔ The tan it provides is buildable, so you can apply a second coat for a darker tint
✔ You can look forward to a bit of shimmer
5. Skinerals Californium Self Tanner
Pros
✔ It contains organic ingredients like green tea, seed oil, aloe vera, shea butter, and more
✔ Cruelty free ingredients that make it eco-friendly and safe to use
✔ There are three different formulas the self tanner has to offer, suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
✘ Good for self tanning but it may stain clothes
✘ You need to wait for a long time before showering
The Skinerals Self Tanner lives up to its tagline: minerals not chemicals. It tans your skin using oils and extracts of fruits and plants such as green tea, aloe vera, acai berry, fig and goji, among other essential oil blends, and features a pleasant fresh apple scent. It does not use any artificial dyes, synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, propylene or butylene glycol, petroleum or sodium lauryl sulfates, so you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals drying or damaging your skin.
Besides being vegan and cruelty-free, this organic sunless tanner is known for having three different formulations that you can choose from depending on how bronze you would like to look. It also has a mousse texture that’s light, foamy and fluffy, making it easy to apply and rub in. You need to be extra careful though to avoid a streaky or splotchy appearance due to the brown guide. And for optimum coverage, it’s best to use a tanning mitt.
Many users love how quickly it dries (under 10 minutes) and the non-sticky feel it leaves. But let it dry completely before getting dressed because it might stain your clothes, and wait four or eight to 12 hours before taking a shower.
The bonus: the manufacturer donates a percentage of sales to fund research on skin cancer. Supporting this corporate philosophy means with every bottle you buy, you may get to help someone in need in the long run.
Best Features
✔ It is cruelty-free and made up of a variety of plant and fruit oils and extracts
✔ You can choose from three different formulations, depending on your preferred tint
✔ It features a light and foamy mousse texture
✔ It is non-sticky and dries quickly
✔ Your purchase helps fund skin cancer research
6. Vita Liberata Self Tanning Lotion
Pros
✔ These self tanners take less than three hours to absorb and show results
✔ Easy to use and apply with its smoother consistency
✔ Similar results to tanning oil without the greasy feeling
Cons
✘ Comes at a more expensive price compared to others
✘ Better for fair skin rather than those with darker complexions
The Vita Liberata is a sunless tanning lotion that features everything you need from self tanners. It is best known for its hydrating effects similar to tanning water, making it suitable for both dry and sensitive skin types. Furthermore, it has organic ingredients and botanicals with a moisture locking system. This will give your skin up to 72 hours of hydration while providing odor remove technology for no scents to worry about.
Furthermore, it’s very easy to use, as it features light and smooth consistency, similar to tanning oil but without much of the grease. It also contains vitamin E, among other organic ingredients, which can help your skin care routine. As for its tanning results, it gives off a natural darker shade that would both give you the tan while improving your skin’s firmness and hydration.
Best Features
✔ Vita Liberata is the best natural self tanner for fair skin
✔ Organic ingredients that hydrates your skin
✔ Made with many healthy organic ingredients for healthy skin
✔ Lightweight with a unique formula unique to Vita Liberata
7. Miami Gorgeous Self Tanning Mousse
Pros
✔ Versatile self tanner that absorbs quickly and gives off a golden bronze complexion
✔ Safe to use with its organic ingredients and nutrients
✔ Offers a money back guarantee to get your money’s worth
Cons
✘ It may stain your hands orange, so you need a mitt
✘ The tan may wash off a bit easily compared to others
The Miami Gorgeous Self Tanning Mousse is best for its premium quality and organic ingredients, having a unique formula that ensures your skin gets all the nutrients it needs. That way, you don’t only get a smooth and consistent tan, but you also stay hydrated and have smooth, clear skin!
The tanning product contains organic DHA, as well as argan oil, vitamins A, C, D, coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, as well as Elderflower extract. It also features a radiant bronzing complex for the bronzing results, giving you a fantastic bronzer and glowing skin that you’ll love.
Best Features
✔ The best tanning product for sensitive skin
✔ Contains organic ingredients for effective sunless tanning
✔ Contains organic DHA and a smooth mousse consistency
✔ Helps with hydration, containing vitamins and minerals for skin health
8. Bipin Self Tanner
Pros
✔ The tan comes within hours and won’t wash off quickly, lasting a week
✔ Awesome milk extract fragrance that smells nice
✔ High-quality formula for hydration and healthier skin
Cons
✘ It comes in a small bottle
✘ Some may complain that it’s a little bit orange rather than tan
What’s great about the Bipin Self Tanner is that it’s formulated with high-quality formula that makes it versatile and suitable for all ages, genders, and skin tones. The sunless tanner has milk extract, which doesn’t only hydrate and help with skin health, but offers a great scent many people will admire.
As for the tanning results, I believe that the tanning lotion has the high-quality natural ingredients and you can expect the color to deepen after about six hours. The tan would last for up to seven days with care and maintenance, and you won’t have to worry about it washing away quickly!
Best Features
✔ The best self tanning lotion with special ingredients unique to the tanner
✔ Has milk extract that smells amazing
✔ Cutting-edge rights reserved formula that hydrates and tans your skin quickly
✔ Bronzing lotion that’s compatible for anyone
9. Aliver Store Self Tanner
Pros
✔ Absorbs and dries quickly with its quick-drying formula
✔ Easy to use and apply, can be used as an exfoliator
✔ The colors develop within three hours and lasts long
Cons
✘ It would sometimes stain the hands if not washed off properly
✘ You need to apply more to achieve your desired complexion
Aliver Store Self Tanners has the unique formula mixed with natural and organic ingredients to provide your skin the rich tan and smooth skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin or pale complexions. You won’t need to go all the way to the beach or under the sun to achieve the golden bronze complexion.
Even those with pale skin can expect a natural-looking tan in up to three hours or less, and it’s very easy to apply. It feels smooth and absorbs into your skin well, not leaving any streaks or stains as long as you wash it off from your hands right after.
Overall, I recommend the self tanner for those who don’t want to go under the sun and prioritizes something that absorbs and dries quickly.
Best Features
✔ A great tanning lotion made of natural and organic ingredients
✔ One of the top self tanners that blends well and creates the rich tan
✔ Quick drying formula that produces minimal stains and streaks
✔ Good money back and satisfaction guarantee
10. Touch of Hemp Self Tanning Mousse
Pros
✔ Easy to apply with the smoother consistency, similar to a mix of cream and mousse
✔ Made of safe ingredients that are beneficial to your skin and tan
✔ Very effective in giving a golden tan or darker shade
Cons
✘ You need to add more face moisturizer afterward
✘ May wash off easily after taking a full shower
Touch of Hemp is one of the best self tanners for its all-natural and organic formula that everyone can benefit from. Not only is it free from any harmful chemicals and ingredients, it also has a smooth and soft consistency that doesn’t destroy your skin compared to getting a tan under the sun. While it may dry your face a bit, it’s nothing moisturizer can’t solve.
Besides this, these self tanners are unique thanks to its addition of hemp seed oil, as well as the free padded microfiber application mitt to get you started with your sunless tan. It’s very impressive in giving off a beautiful bronze complexion without worry about its ingredient list or where it comes from.
Best Features
✔ Self tanner that gives off a sun kissed tan without the sun
✔ Contains organic ingredients like hemp seed oil, argan oil, vitamins A, C, and D
✔ Free from parabens, THC, sulfate, gluten, and is cruelty free as well
✔ Healthy for skin hydration for your skin care routine
How to Pick the Top Organic Self Tanners
When selecting an organic self tanner, you have to look into the different factors and features. This will help you find the right tanning product among the many available. Look out for these factors:
What Ingredients Should Your Self Tanner NOT Have?
Ensure that you watch out for ingredients like:
What Should the Best Self Tanner Have?
To provide the best gradual self tan, some manufacturers use ingredients like mineral bronzers, seed oil, cocoa powder, green tea, or fruit extracts. Others stick to vitamin E, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), an Omega-3 fatty acid that can be sourced from algaes, fish oil and sugarcane. This will help with your skin care routine and make sure that your skin stays healthy and protected by UV rays.
Natural DHA mixes and reacts with the amino acids found on the outermost layer of your skin, making it darker temporarily. Concerns about the health impact of natural DHA, however, are urging many brands to explore other natural ingredients for creating a tan skin tone.
With all this in mind, when it comes to ingredients, remember that more is not necessarily better. The best natural self tanners do not need a ton of ingredients to get the job done. So watch out for ingredients lists that are too long.
The Fragrances Included In Your Self Tanner
In addition, many of your gradual face tanner options in this category are free of chemical or synthetic fragrances and are instead scented with plant-based oils. Fragrances are a common skin allergens and asthma trigger. Plus, most are stabilized with phthalates, which according to animal tests can lead to birth defects and reproductive issues.
You can choose between various scents and fragrances, ranging from chocolate scents down to tropical ones. Select fragrances that suit your preference more, but if you have sensitive skin or prefer no scent at all, there are fragrance-free products to select.
Invest In Certified Organic Self Tanners
A lot of the best face tanners with vegan formulas are also cruelty-free, which means the manufacturers did not conduct any animal testing. If third-party verification was conducted, you’re likely to find a certified vegan logo (usually with rights reserved) or leaping bunny logo on the product packaging.
When browsing for the top organic self tanner for fair skin, you might also come across the USDA Organic Seal. Products bearing this seal contain only organically manufactured ingredients. Such ingredients were produced without harmful pesticides, genetic engineering or synthetic fertilizers.
Types of Self Tanners
Today’s organic sunless tanners are available in various forms, including tanning water, cream, lotion, mousse and tanning oil. A number are formulated specifically for body use, while others are also safe enough to be applied on your face. The type of self tanner you choose should depend on your skin type and personal preference, as some would prefer the soft foam or thicker tanning oil.
Common features include a color guide, which is a tint that helps ensure even application that makes it easy to use, as well as a buildable formulation. These features would suit those who would like to darken or deepen their tan skin color through frequent or multiple applications.
Consistency and Results
Of course, you have to look into your lotion’s consistency and feel for extra comfort. I recommend getting something that is thick, but lightweight, not having the heavy feeling that makes it difficult to absorb to your skin. It should also be smooth and quick to apply, requiring minimal reapplication.
The results should be according to the desired shade you want, whether you want a slightly darker shade, or a deep bronze color. You may need reapplication after a day or so, depending on the overall formula of these self tanners.
Consider the time you see results from your tan. Usually, it would take less than three hours for your skin to absorb the lotion, then another few hours to start seeing the tan. Your complexion will turn a shade or two darker after one day.
Furthermore, look into the results. Your tanning product should be streak free and create no stains, which will help prevent dirtying your clothes or making you look like you had a fake tan. However, streak free results are normal, just make sure that it’s minimal and easy to use and rinse away.
Tips for Easy & Effective Sunless Tanning
Selecting the best natural self tanner for your needs is just the first step. To pull off a faux tan skin tone flawlessly, you need to also do the following.
Conclusion
When you’re looking for the top organic self tanners to suit your needs, take a close look at the ingredients list, consider which features are a must-have for you, and decide on the tan skin tone you want to get.
There are a growing number of best natural sunless tanners in the market today. And they come in a variety of forms and formulations, each with their share of pros and cons. So you’re not likely to run out of options, and with the right pick, you can certainly get a lovely bronze glow in a safe and healthy way.
