Best Facial Self Tanners: Review

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ

Best Facial Self-Tanners Review:

Facial tanning products have become popular for those seeking a sun-kissed look without the risks of UV exposure. These products can help enhance skin tone, providing a healthy glow.

For mature skin, which can be thinner and more sensitive, choosing the right facial tanning product is especially important.

Here is a review of the most popular type of at-home self-facial tanners, including pads, drops, mist and creams.

Buying guide

When choosing a facial tanning product for mature skin, I focus on a few key features including:

Moisturizing Ingredients

  •  Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients to keep your skin soft and supple.

Gradual Color Development

  • A buildable tan allows me to control the darkness and avoid streaks. It’s a more forgiving option that lets you build color over time.

Application Method

  • I prefer easy application methods, such as drops or sprays. The simpler, the better!

Natural Ingredients

  • I prefer formulas made with natural ingredients to avoid irritation. This is especially important for mature skin.

Skin Type

  • Choose products based on your specific skin type—whether it's oily, dry, or sensitive.

Fragrance

  • Most tanning products will have a scent. I look for those with light fragrances to avoid overwhelming my senses.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

  • If you're using a self-tanner, consider a product with SPF for added sun protection. This is an extra benefit, though I personally don’t prioritize it since I apply my self-tanner at night.

Popular self-facial tanning options: Pads, Mist, Drops and Creams

Dr. Dennis Gross Glow Pads

This is an interesting take on a sunless tanning product. These towelettes not only provide a natural glow for your face without sun exposure, but they also contain alpha hydroxy acid (AHA's) so they exfoliate and tan at the same time.

I haven't tired them yet, because I have so many AHA's products and they seem a bit pricey. But I might give them a shot based on the all the positive reviews.

Love:

  • Easy to use and mess-free.
  • Provides a natural-looking tan.
  • Supports skin with exfoliating and anti-aging benefits.

Keep in Mind:

  • Can leave a slight orange tint on some skin types.
  • Results may vary depending on skin type.
  • Requires about 3-4 hours to fully develop.

These Glow Pads offer a quick, easy way to add a natural tan with skin-smoothing benefits. Most reviewers love the mess-free application and fresh glow they bring, especially in winter.

A few noted a slight orange tint on fair skin, but overall, the convenience and subtle radiance make these pads a year-round favorite for sun-free color.



St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist

This is my favorite! It spray is super fine and you don't even have to rub it in. Even though I do.

This face mist from St. Tropez offers a nice option for anyone looking to achieve a natural glow without the hassle. It's super easy and can be applied over skincare products, even a full face of makeup! 

Love:

  • Easy to apply with a fine mist spray.
  • Provides a very subtle and natural tan.
  • Hydrating ingredients help keep the skin feeling fresh.

Keep in Mind:

  • Fragrance may not appeal to everyone.
  • Some users report it fades quickly.
  • May cause breakouts in very sensitive skin types.

I'm lazy, so the St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist is my go-to for a quick glow. Just spray, and it dries instantly, leaving a soft, natural, sun-kissed finish. The hyaluronic acid boost keeps my skin hydrated and smooth—great for mature skin. I love that it layers well with makeup, no streaks.

The scent’s strong at first but fades fast, and while the glow needs refreshing every few days, it’s a minor trade-off for the ease and radiance.


Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Drops

Love:

  • Easy to mix with regular moisturizer or sunscreen.
  • Natural ingredients that hydrate the skin.
  • Customizable color for a tailored tan.

Keep in Mind:

  • Can turn skin too dark if not careful with the amount.
  • Results may take a few applications to show fully.
  • Some users report uneven application if rushed.

The feedback is very positive for this bendable formula that easily mixes with any regular moisturizer. Users mention that, after a few applications, the drops build a subtle, natural glow. Many like the flexibility to customize the depth of color with just the right number of drops. 


TAN-LUXE The Water Hydrating Self Tanner Mist

Love:

  • Easy, streak-free application
  • Hydrating formula that feels lightweight
  • No harsh smell or staining on clothes

Keep in Mind:

  • Can develop slowly, so timing is important
  • Some may find it pricey compared to others
  • If acne prone, this might cause breakouts

The mist sprays easily and feels refreshing with no sticky residue—unlike some other self-tanners. It blends seamlessly over makeup, providing a fresh, sun-kissed look without the sun.

Similar to other tanning mists, it hydrates while tanning. The mist leaves the skin subtly tanned, avoiding the undesirable orange hue that many self-tanners produce. The color develops gradually, so applying it a few hours before an event is recommended for optimal results.


Beauty by Earth Face Tanner

Love:

  • Customizable shades for a natural look.
  • Fast-drying formula that works quickly.
  • Vegan and free from harmful ingredients.

Keep in Mind:

  • Color may not last as long as expected.
  • Strong scent can be off-putting for some.
  • May require frequent reapplication for best results.

The Beauty by Earth Face Tanner isn’t my top pick—it has a strong scent and requires precise application to avoid spots. However, it’s still popular for a natural glow, offering quick results with light and dark shades. Its gentle, natural formula suits mature skin.


Additional considerations

Mature skin may show signs of aging like dryness, fine lines, and uneven tone. Therefore, facial tanning products designed for this skin type often include moisturizing ingredients. They should also be gentle to avoid irritation. It’s crucial to consider factors like the product’s formulation.

A good self-tanner will not only enhance your complexion but also support skin health. I explored and tested several popular products to find the best options for achieving a radiant tan on mature skin.

TIP: I’ve discovered that applying self-tanner at night works best for me. It often leaves a bit too much color, but I can easily wash some off and buff my skin with a washcloth in the morning to smooth out the color and even out any spots.



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