10090807060504030201
Beauty/Skin/Self Tanners

Top 10 Facial Self-Tanners

Hands Down, These Are The Best Facial Self-Tanners For A Natural-Looking Glow

Image credits: sephora

Facial self-tanner isn’t that complicated, but if you choose one that doesn’t jive with your skin’s chemistry or use it incorrectly, you’ll regret the day you bought it. The wrong shade will result in a complexion that’s more orange than golden, and improper application will leave behind streaks that even the best foundation can’t fix. And if you apply too much or pay little attention to the ingredients, it may exacerbate acne or signs of aging

That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of the absolute best facial self-tanners out there, including options that speak to a range of concerns and price points. Nowadays, the most exciting aspect of facial self-tanners is the range of applicator types. The standard sprays and creams (mitts included) still exist. However, there are newer formulas like serums and wipes that make self-tanner feel more like skincare and a lot more user-friendly for newbies.

How We Found The Best Facial Self-Tanners

We carefully curated this list with the help of our cutting-edge algorithm, a proprietary tool that identifies products using a variety of tried-and-true data. Think beauty editor recommendations, best-seller lists, rave reviews, and more. Ahead, take a look at the best facial self-tanners for selfies, beach days, and everything in between.

Jump To Products

September 26, 2023

Written By:Rank & Style

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

FacebookPinterest logoTwitter logoEmail icon

Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: ulta
Rank & Style Approved

ulta

Coco And Eve Bronzing Face Drops

Overall Score

4.55

10

Coco And Eve Bronzing Face Drops

4.53

2449 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Learn More
arrow

Best Natural Facial Self-Tanner

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
When adding products into your daily routine, breakouts probably top your list of concerns. If that’s the case, you'll love these drops—the formula is rich in natural ingredients (banana, coconut water, dragon fruit), and the natural DHA delivers a tan in just two hours and lasts for days.

APPLICATION TIP
Add just two to three drops to your moisturizer and use it once a week to maintain your glow.

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Face Serum

Overall Score

4.55

09

Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Face Serum

4.22

2870 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Anti-Aging Facial Self-Tanner

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Coola’s face serum is a twofer that naturally tans the skin and addresses signs of aging. Its reef-safe formula is made with a beet-derived DHA that illuminates, while Centella Asiatica, a staple in K-beauty products, reduces the appearance of fine lines. 

APPLICATION TIP
Wait two to four hours to see a visible difference, and if you want a subtler glow, mix it with your moisturizer instead of using it alone.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Isle Of Paradise Hyglo Hyaluronic Self-Tan Face Serum

Overall Score

4.55

08

Isle Of Paradise Hyglo Hyaluronic Self-Tan Face Serum

4.38

478 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Multitasking Facial Self-Tanner

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Not into mixing products? No problem. Isle of Paradise’s tanning serum is a standalone self-tanner that not only illuminates the skin, but it also hydrates (hyaluronic acid), brightens (grapefruit oil), and plumps (avocado oil). It’s also a suitable option for all skin types. 

APPLICATION TIP
Stick with four to 12 drops, or add more if you want a deeper tan.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Bali Body Face Tan Water

Overall Score

4.65

07

Bali Body Face Tan Water

4.55

3637 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Facial Self-Tanner For Fair Skin

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Even with a glorious tan, acne scars can still kill your confidence. That’s one of the reasons reviewers love Bali Body’s facial tanner, whose ingredients—rose water and jojoba oil—reduce skin scarring and replenish moisture.

APPLICATION TIP
Use this as you would a toner, applying it with a cotton pad or your hands. Expect a glowier complexion in just two hours. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


B.Tan Gimme The Glow Down Facial Tan Mist

Overall Score

4.7

06

B.Tan Gimme The Glow Down Facial Tan Mist

4.1

11487 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Self-Tanner For Face And Body

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
When you’re always on the go, nothing beats the convenience of a spray formula. B.Tan’s facial tanner is also vegan, and it can be used alone or on top of an existing tan. 

APPLICATION TIP
Start with clean, exfoliated skin, spray evenly, and wait a few minutes before applying the rest of your skincare products.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Facial Drops

Overall Score

4.75

05

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Facial Drops

4.27

7419 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Affordable Facial Self-Tanner

WHAT TO KNOW
These drops are a perfect companion for your moisturizer thanks to the hyaluronic acid-rich formula—free of fragrance and dermatologically tested, btw—that hydrates and brightens the complexion. Plus, they may be amongst the best tanning drops for fair skin (check out the review below for evidence).

REVIEW HIGHLIGHT
"This product makes me look like I came straight from Hawaii in the middle of summer, even though I live in the snow and never see the sun. All these years of looking like a pale fish in the winter when I could have been using this all along! [...] Also, I have rosacea, and this product does not irritate my skin at all! Will definitely be purchasing again."


Tan Towel Face Tan

Overall Score

4.85

04

Tan Towel Face Tan

4.43

554 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Facial Self-Tanner Towels

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
This best-selling, one-of-a-kind facial self-tanner comes in the form of a travel-friendly towelette that's infused with a tanning agent, aloe vera, squalane, vitamin B5, and citric acid to smooth, brighten, and moisturize with just a few swipes. Just be sure to apply it to clean, dry skin and wash your hands afterward.

USER REVIEW
“I've used Tan Towels for about 15 years. I have very light, sensitive skin but hate to go around all pasty white! These DO NOT streak. Very easy to apply. They provide even color and are refreshing without having a strong fragrance. No streaking. Just a natural-looking tan. I really love these and rely on them to achieve a healthy color without risking sun damage.”

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


St. Tropez Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist

Overall Score

4.85

03

St. Tropez Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist

4.38

8299 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Facial Self-Tanner Mist

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
St. Tropez is basically the Rolls Royce of self-tanning products, with a range that includes foams, lotions, mists, and more. This tropically scented face mist is a user-friendly option that also protects the skin from environmental stressors with hibiscus flower extract. 

APPLICATION TIP
Spray in a downward motion over the face and neck before applying makeup or moisturizer. It can be used daily or until you achieve the color you want.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Isle Of Paradise Self Tanning Drops

Overall Score

4.9

02

Isle Of Paradise Self Tanning Drops

4.29

10344 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Facial Self-Tanner For Uneven Skin

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Think of this less as a self-tanner and more as a color corrector. Available in three shades, the formula works with your natural tone to tamp down redness and even things out to a glowy complexion that's uniquely you. It’s also to your face what conditioner is to your hair, giving it plenty of moisture via coconut and avocado oils.

APPLICATION TIP
Add anywhere from two to 12 drops to your moisturizer. The more drops, the deeper the glow.

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

Overall Score

4.95

01

Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

4.36

3156 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Facial Self-Tanner Overall

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Tan-Luxe’s award-winning Self-Tan Drops are renowned for their skincare-first formula that addresses dryness and uneven texture with organic tanning actives and moisture-rich ingredients. It can be used in conjunction with your moisturizer or serum, and it provides results within hours.

USER REVIEW
“I am addicted! I love to have a healthy tan in the summer, but I want to protect my face from wrinkles, and this is the solution. Also, when I tan, my face always fades before my body. Not anymore with this self-tanner!”

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty

View All Top 10 Lists
Arrow white

The Latest

Image credits: simplehuman

Tools & Brushes

Top 10 Lighted Makeup Mirrors

The Best Makeup Mirrors With Lights And Magnification For Tackling Everyday Beauty Tasks With Ease

View All Beauty
arrow

From Our Partners

Image credits: janeiredale

Jane Iredale

Jane Iredale celebrates 30th Anniversary with Ready to Bloom 30th Anniversary Collection

Shop Now

Arrow white

Straight-to-the-point emails to make finding what you love even easier.