What Self-Tanner Should You Use? We Make Sense of Every Formula

POPSUGAR Photography
POPSUGAR Photography
Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

Remember when there was just one Jergens self-tanner at the drugstore? Now, shopping for a bronzing solution can be quite daunting with serums, gels, mousses, sprays, and more lining the shelves.

Let's take a step back for a quick tanning history lesson. Dihydroxyacetone (aka DHA) is the ingredient you thank for staining your skin bronze. While it was recognized by German scientists in the 1920s for its skin-coloring properties, it didn't pick up much steam on beauty counters until the past decade. Since then, every brand from drugstore favorites, like Neutrogena and L'Oréal Paris, to luxe lines such as La Mer and Estée Lauder have entered the category. And if you feel overwhelmed about which formula to choose, we get it — and we're here to help. Keep reading to learn about all of the different types of self-tanner, so you can choose the best one for your skin type and needs.

Traditional Lotion: La Mer
POPSUGAR Photography

Traditional Lotion: La Mer

Sometimes the simplest option works best! Before self-tanner got fancy, brands were making one product: a DHA lotion. Often these formulas work for both face and body, so make sure to check the package before you apply. Lotions are typically less saturated with DHA, so you can layer them a few days in a row to gradually build your bronze. If the liquid is clear or white, make sure to completely rub it in (circular upward motions) and cover all areas (knees, ankles, etc.) to avoid any telltale streaks.

La Mer The Face and Body Gradual Tan ($90)

Traditional Lotion: Aerin
POPSUGAR Photography

Traditional Lotion: Aerin

Face: Sisley
POPSUGAR Photography

Face: Sisley

Choosing a self-tanner made specifically for your face is essential — especially if you have oily skin (you'll want something matte), rosacea (look for products aimed at fair skin), or any other epidermis issue. Face self-tanners are often lighter formulas than their body counterparts and offer extra skin care benefits. Make sure to blend well around your ears and neck, and apply a little extra to your cheeks to get a contoured, sun-kissed look.

Sisley Paris Self-Tanning Hydrating Facial Skin Care ($145)

Face (BB Cream!): James Read
POPSUGAR Photography

Face (BB Cream!): James Read

There's even a BB Cream version of face self-tanner for your everyday wear.

James Read BB Gradual Tan ($25)

Powder: Vita Liberata
POPSUGAR Photography

Powder: Vita Liberata

If you're a powder-bronzer addict, you'll be smitten with the new DHA versions. Just buff it in with a brush and blend evenly! You'll notice a gradual glow over time in the places you applied the golden dust.

Vita Liberata Trystal Self Tanning Bronzing and Kabuki Brush Duo ($55)

Oil/Serum: St. Tropez
POPSUGAR Photography

Oil/Serum: St. Tropez

If you really want a self-tanner that sinks in, you'll love the oil and serum versions. These hydrating bronzers dry matte but give you a natural-looking flush. Plus, since they're so light, it's easy to apply daily makeup over them once they dry. These are also great to use overnight since they won't smear on your pillow.

St. Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Luxe Facial Oil ($35)

Gel: Guerlain
POPSUGAR Photography

Gel: Guerlain

Gels may be the favored self-tanner type among beauty editors (at least, here at POPSUGAR). That is because the application process is so easy. First, potential streaks are obvious since it tends to be tinted. And second, it dries in about five to 10 minutes with a smooth, grease-free finish that won't stain your clothes. We tend to find these guys have a less pungent odor as well.

Guerlain Terracotta Sunless Self-Tanning Gel ($53)

Tanning Drops: Paula's Choice
POPSUGAR Photography

Tanning Drops: Paula's Choice

Customize your own tan by adding drops of a DHA-infused concentrate to your daily face or body moisturizer. How many drops you add determines your level of bronze, so you can make it as dark as you'd like!

Paula's Choice Sun 365 Self-Tanning Concentrate ($18)

Spray: Victoria's Secret
POPSUGAR Photography

Spray: Victoria's Secret

If airbrush tans are your jam, then DIY with an at-home version. These fine mists spray the product on, so you don't have to rub it in. Just make sure to hold the can an even distance away at all times and let the formula set in place. Recruit your roommate or partner to do your backside and places you can't reach. It is also recommended to put a bit of moisturizer as a buffer on your elbows, knees, and other joints where the tanner may build up.

Victoria's Secret Self-Tanning Tinted Spray ($15)

Cream: Clarins
POPSUGAR Photography

Cream: Clarins

Those with dry skin will love a big pot of dewy DHA lotion. This is great for cold-weather months when you need the boost of hydration.

Clarins Delicious Self-Tanning Cream ($44)

Mousse: James Read
POPSUGAR Photography

Mousse: James Read

The second favorite formula for the POPSUGAR crew is mousse. This foamy option is best applied with a self-tanner mitt for a stripe-free finish. Expect it to glide onto your skin but dry within minutes, similar to a gel but without the stickiness.

James Read Bronzing Mousse ($36)

Express Tan: St. Tropez
POPSUGAR Photography

Express Tan: St. Tropez

If you only have a few hours to get ready before a big event or hate getting self-tanner on your sheets and clothes, then an express formula is your best bet. This fairly new category should only sit on skin for one to three hours (depending on the instructions) before getting washed off in the shower. While the color will instantly appear, it will continue to develop hours after you rinse.

St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse ($44)

Towelettes: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare
POPSUGAR Photography

Towelettes: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

When you're packing for your Summer weekend getaway, toss a few pre-DHA-soaked towelettes into your bag. These one-time-use tanning cloths are supereasy to use — just swipe them on and let it dry. In addition to the travel-friendly size, these wipes don't streak as much since the towel offers an even application that's easy to rub in.

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Glow Pad For Face ($35)

Antiaging: Fake Bake
POPSUGAR Photography

Antiaging: Fake Bake

Cut down on costs and skin care steps by opting for a self-tanner with antiaging benefits. Whether you're targeting cellulite on your body or sagging on your face, these formulas not only tan but also tone, lift, and firm.

Fake Bake Lipo Bronze ($27)

Extender: Fake Bake
POPSUGAR Photography

Extender: Fake Bake

Keep your tan going for days longer without adding more color by investing in an extender. These lotions contain just a hint of DHA, so you don't usually have to worry about streaks. Plus, the offensive self-tanner smell is nonexistent, meaning it's safe to use every day.

Fake Bake Amplify ($24)

In-Shower Gel: St. Tropez
POPSUGAR Photography

In-Shower Gel: St. Tropez

Water activates this brand-new type of self-tanner. You can apply it in the shower, leave it on your body for three minutes, rinse it off, and wait for your tan to develop on your clean, dried skin. It is recommended to be used three days in a row to get the perfect bronze hue.

St. Tropez Dubbed Gradual Tan In-Shower Tanning Lotion ($25, available in June at Ulta)