Summertime may be over, but who says we can’t maintain a sunkissed glow all year round? The best affordable self-tanners for beginners are a convenient and safe alternative to soaking up harmful UV rays from the sun.
But with so many available options, finding the right one for beginners on a budget can be a challenge. Fear not; we’ve rounded up some of the best affordable self-tanners to achieve that natural-looking tan without breaking the bank.
Best Affordable Self-Tanners For Beginners [ Detailed Analysis]
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer:
If you’re looking for a product that will give you a natural-looking, streak-free glow, Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer is worth considering. It is affordable, easy to apply, and gives you a lasting tan.
Active Ingredients:
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer contains Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a common ingredient in self-tanners that reacts with the amino acids in the skin to create a tan. This self-tanner also contains Glycerin and Shea Butter, which help keep the skin moisturized and healthy-looking.
Pros:
- Instant color that develops in just a few hours
- The product has a light, pleasant scent.
- It contains moisturizing ingredients to keep the skin healthy and hydrated.
- The self-tanner is buildable, allowing you to customize your desired level of tan.
- Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer is a budget-friendly option compared to other self-tanners.
Cons:
- The Bronzer is too dark for some users.
- The self-tanner can transfer onto clothing if not thoroughly dried.
- Requires continuous use to maintain the tan.
- It may only work well on somewhat fair or very dark skin tones.
- The product is only available in one shade.
Quantity:
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer comes in a 6-ounce tube, perfect for travel or throwing in your gym bag.
Cruelty-Free:
As a result, Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer is considered cruelty-free and perfect for those who want to avoid products that harm animals.
Byrdie Clean:
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer has received the Byrdie Clean seal of approval, which means it has been reviewed and deemed safe for use.
Jergens Natural Glow Face Self Tanner Lotion:
Jergens Natural Glow Face Self Tanner Lotion is a self-tanning product designed specifically for the face. It allows you to achieve a sun-kissed, bronzed appearance without the need for sun exposure.
Active Ingredients:
The primary active ingredient in Jergens Natural Glow Face Self Tanner Lotion is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA is a colorless sugar that interacts with the amino acids in the top layer of the skin to produce a temporary tan effect. It’s a common ingredient in many self-tanning products.
Pros:
- Gradual Tan: Jergens Natural Glow products are often known for providing a gradual and natural-looking tan. This can help avoid the streaks or abrupt color changes that can sometimes occur with more intense self-tanners.
- Hydration: In addition to providing a tan, this product is typically formulated to provide moisture to the skin, helping to keep it soft and supple.
- Designed for the Face: It’s specifically formulated for facial use, which can be more delicate than the rest of the body.
Cons:
- Scent: Some users may find that self-tanners have a distinct odor. While many products aim to minimize this, it can still be noticeable for some people.
- Color Transfer: Like most self-tanners, there’s the potential for the product to transfer onto clothing or other surfaces until it fully dries.
- Temporary Effect: The tan achieved with self-tanners is temporary and will fade over time. Regular reapplication is needed to maintain the tan’s appearance.
Quantity:
The size of the product can vary depending on the packaging and the specific product version. Typically, it comes in standard-sized lotion bottles designed for face application.
Cruelty-Free:
The product is not tested on animals, making it a more ethical choice for those who care about animal welfare.
Byrdie Clean:
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Self Tanner Moisturizer + Bronzer has received the Byrdie Clean seal of approval, which means it has been reviewed and deemed safe for use.
b.tan Darker Self Tanner:
b.tan Darker Self Tanner is an excellent product that stands out amongst its peers. It is formulated with all-natural ingredients that are safe for your skin while providing a deep and long-lasting tan. So, go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Active Ingredients:
The b.tan Darker Self Tanner is formulated with all-natural, organic, and hypoallergenic ingredients that are safe for your skin. The active ingredients include:
- Aloe Vera: This hydrates your skin, leaving it smooth and supple.
- Coconut Oil: This provides moisturization and softens your skin.
- Cocoa Seed Oil: This soothes your skin and provides anti-aging benefits.
- Green Tea: This provides antioxidant benefits, leaving your skin firm and healthy.
Pros:
- It dries quickly and is not greasy.
- Long-lasting color with no streaks.
- Darker shade for a deeper and richer tan.
- All-natural ingredients that are safe for the skin.
- Budget-friendly compared to other self-tanners.
Cons:
- The application requires some skill to avoid uneven patches.
- It has a distinct odor that fades over time.
- It needs to be washed off after three hours for optimal results.
Quantity:
The b.tan Darker Self Tanner is available in a 6.7 fl oz bottle. This generous quantity can last you a few months, depending on your usage.
Cruelty-Free:
b.tan is a 100% cruelty-free brand. None of their products are tested on animals, and no animal-derived ingredients are present in their formulas. So, you can use the b.tan Darker Self Tanner with a clear conscience.
Byrdie Clean:
The b.tan Darker Self Tanner is certified as a Byrdie Clean product. It means it is formulated without harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
SOL By Jergens Deeper By The Drop Self-Tanning Drops:
With the scorching heat outside, most of us avoid going out during the daytime, which means we’re missing out on that natural tan. Luckily, with SOL by Jergens Deeper by the Drop Self-Tanning Drops, you can achieve that perfect tan without spending hours in the sun.
SOL by Jergens Deeper by the Drop Self-Tanning Drops is an ideal solution for those looking for a natural-looking sunless tan. It’s a very easy-to-use, long-lasting, and non-streaky formula.
Active Ingredients:
SOL by Jergens Deeper by the Drop Self-Tanning Drops is formulated with DHA (dihydroxyacetone), the active ingredient that gives you that perfect sunless tan. DHA reacts with the amino acids in your skin to produce that golden brown color. It is a safe and approved ingredient by the FDA for cosmetic use.
Pros:
- Easy to Use: The product is straightforward because it comes in drops. You can control the intensity of your tan by adding more or fewer drops.
- Long-lasting: The tan lasts for days and fades evenly.
- Natural-looking: The tan looks natural and doesn’t leave you looking orangey.
- Non-streaky: The formula doesn’t leave any streaks or blotches.
Cons:
- The product has a strong smell.
- It takes a few hours to see the full effect.
- The packaging may be inconvenient for some.
Quantity:
The product comes in 1 oz. The bottle will last you for a decent amount of time, mainly if you only use a few drops at a time.
Cruelty-Free:
SOL by Jergens Deeper by the Drop Self Tanning Drops is cruelty-free, meaning it is not tested on animals.
Byrdie Clean:
The product is listed as Byrdie Clean, which means it is free of harmful ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.
Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse:
St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fast-working, easy-to-use self-tanner that produces a natural-looking glow. With its active ingredients of DHA and Melanin, users can achieve a streak-free tan without orange tones.
Active Ingredients:
- The key ingredients in St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse are Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and Melanin.
- DHA is a colorless chemical that interacts with the amino acids in the outer layer of the skin to produce a tan.
- Melanin works with DHA to have a darker, more natural-looking tan.
Pros:
- It is a fast-working self-tanner that develops within 1 hour.
- Allows users to control the depth of the tan, leaving it on for 1 hour for a light glow or up to 3 hours for a darker bronze
- It glides on easily and dries almost instantly.
- No streaks or orange tones
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons:
- Some users report an unpleasant odor during the development process
- Lack of precise instructions, which can lead to uneven application if not used correctly
Quantity:
St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse comes in a 200 ml bottle, which is enough for several applications. The size also makes it easy to pack for vacations, ensuring you can maintain your tan while on the go.
Cruelty-Free and Byrdie Clean:
St. Tropez is a cruelty-free brand that does not test on animals. It is also recognized as a Byrdie Clean brand, meaning that its products are made without some potentially harmful ingredients often used in beauty products.
b.tan Clear Self Tan Gel
The b.tan Clear Self Tan Gel is a tanning product known for being a clear and transparent gel, which provides a self-tanning effect without any color guide. It allows for a streak-free and natural-looking tan as it develops on your skin.
Active Ingredients:
The active ingredients in the b.tan Clear Self Tan Gel can vary by product version, but typical self-tanning active ingredients include dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the skin to create a temporary tan.
Pros:
- Clear Formula: It’s a clear gel, which means it doesn’t have a visible color guide when applied, reducing the risk of staining clothing or bed linens.
- Potential Natural-Looking Tan: DHA-based self-tanners can provide a natural-looking tan without exposure to harmful UV rays from the sun.
Cons:
- Application Skill: Some self-tanners can be challenging to apply evenly, and it may require some practice to achieve a streak-free result.
- Scent: DHA-based tanners can sometimes have a noticeable scent during and after application.
- Duration: Self-tans typically last for a few days to a week, so reapplication is necessary to maintain the tan.
Quantity:
The size of the b.tan Clear Self Tan Gel can vary based on the specific product version or packaging.
Cruelty-Free:
b.tan is a brand that does not test its products on animals, making it a cruelty-free option.
Byrdie Clean:
The b.tan Darker Self Tanner is certified as a Byrdie Clean product.
St.Tropez Self Tan Purity:
The St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Mini Kit is a self-tanning set typically designed for creating a sun-kissed tan without exposure to harmful UV rays.
Active Ingredients:
The active ingredients in the St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Mini Kit typically include dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is a common self-tanning agent that interacts with the skin to produce a temporary tan. The specific formulation may vary depending on the product version.
Pros:
- Natural-Looking Tan: DHA-based self-tanners can provide a natural-looking tan without the need for sun exposure.
- Mini Kit: This kit often includes smaller-sized products, making it convenient for travel or for those new to self-tanning.
Cons:
- Application Skill: Achieving a streak-free result with self-tanners may require some practice, especially for those new to self-tanning.
- Duration: Self-tans typically last for a few days to a week, so reapplication is necessary to maintain the tan.
Quantity:
The St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Mini Kit typically includes smaller-sized products compared to full-sized self-tanning products. The specific sizes may vary depending on the kit’s contents.
Cruelty-Free:
St.Tropez is a brand that does not test its products on animals, making it a cruelty-free option.
Byrdie Clean:
Yes, the St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Mini Kit meets the Byrdie Clean standards.
L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Facial Drops:
L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Facial Drops with Hyaluronic Acid is a commendable addition to the self-tanning market. These facial drops seamlessly blend with your regular moisturizer, offering a customizable, natural-looking tan while hydrating your skin.
Active Ingredient:
The key active ingredient in the L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Facial Drops is Hyaluronic Acid. This component is known for its hydrating properties, helping to retain moisture in the skin. It promotes a smooth and plumped complexion, enhancing the overall skin texture.
Pros:
- Customizable tan level
- Hydrates and nourishes skin
- Easy to apply and blend
- Streak-free, natural-looking tan
Cons:
- May cause an undesired reaction in sensitive individuals
- Does not contain sunscreen
Quantity:
The product comes in a compact 30ml bottle, making it great for both home and travel use.
Cruelty-Free:
The brand may not fully align with the definition of cruelty-free adopted by some entities. It’s always recommended to conduct individual research if this is a significant factor for you.
Byrdie Clean:
It is free from harmful ingredients like parabens and sulfates, which are typically excluded in Byrdie Clean products. Nonetheless, users are always recommended to review the ingredient list to ensure it aligns with their personal skincare preferences.
L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning:
L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Body Lotion offers an effortless way to achieve a natural-looking tan without subjecting the skin to harmful UV rays. This hydrating self-tanner is enriched with Vitamin E, known for its nourishing properties, and gentle AHAs which help in the skin’s natural exfoliation process.
Active Ingredients:
The key active ingredients in the L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Body Lotion are Vitamin E and AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids). Vitamin E is renowned for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties, enhancing skin health by fighting off harmful free radicals.
Pros:
- Nourishes and hydrates the skin
- Promotes skin exfoliation for a smoother complexion
- Instant glow which gradually develops into an even tan
- Quick-drying, non-sticky formula
Cons:
- Can cause discoloration if not washed off hands immediately after application
- Does not provide sun protection
Quantity:
L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Body Lotion comes in a convenient 150 ml bottle, making it perfect for regular use.
Cruelty-Free:
L’Oreal’s stance on animal testing is complex due to compliance with regulations of different countries where they sell their products. Thus, while the company claims to be committed to a world without animal testing, it may not be considered fully cruelty-free by all standards.
Byrdie Clean:
Regarding Byrdie Clean, the product doesn’t make explicit claims. However, it reportedly is free from parabens, which is a common criterion for Byrdie Clean. As always, customers are advised to review the ingredient list thoroughly and conduct their own research.
Skinny Tan Gradual Tanner:
The Skinny Tan Gradual Tanner is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a natural and safe self-tanner. With its active ingredients, gradual tanning process, natural scent, decent size, cruelty-free status, and
recognition as a Byrdie Clean product, you can trust that it is a good investment for your skin. So why not try it and let us know what you think?
Active Ingredients:
- Coconut Oil: This ingredient helps moisturize the skin and keep it soft and supple.
- Oatmeal helps soothe and calm the skin, making it perfect for people with sensitive skin.
- Aloe Vera: It is known for its hydrating properties and helps keep the skin moisturized.
- Guarana: This ingredient helps stimulate blood flow and can help firm the skin.
- Vitamin E: It helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Pros:
- No streaks: Skinny Tan Gradual Tanner doesn’t leave spots, even if you’re a self-tan beginner.
- Natural-looking tan: The gradual tanner provides a natural-looking tan that lasts for days.
- Moisturizing: The ingredients in Skinny Tan Gradual Tanner make it an excellent moisturizer that hydrates the skin while tanning.
- High-quality ingredients: The tanner uses gentle, natural ingredients on the skin.
- Easy to apply: The gradual tanner is easy to use and requires no special equipment.
Cons:
- It takes time to develop: Unlike instant self-tanners, the gradual tanner takes a few hours, so you need to plan.
- It may not work on darker skin tones: People with darker skin tones may see little difference in their skin after using this tanner.
- Scent: Some people may not like the smell of the tanner, although it’s manageable.
Quantity:
The Skinny Tan Gradual Tanner comes in a 125m (about 410.1 ft)L (4.2oz) bottle, a decent size for a gradual self-tanner. It may last for several applications, depending on how often you use it and how much you apply.
Cruelty-Free:
If you’re looking for a cruelty-free self-tanner, you’ll be happy to know that Skinny Tan is a cruelty-free brand. They don’t test their products on animals; they use natural ingredients that are safe for your skin.
Byrdie Clean:
The Skinny Tan Gradual Tanner is recognized as a Byrdie Clean product, evaluated by the Byrdie editorial team, and deemed clean according to their standards. This assures consumers that the product is safe to use from harmful chemicals.
How Often Should You Self-Tan?
To maintain a consistent tan, you should self-tan every five to seven days. However, if you’re a frequent showerer, your self-tanner fades faster, and you’ll need to apply it more frequently.
You should also exfoliate your skin before self-tanning to ensure an even application and longer-lasting results.
Can I Sleep With A Self-Tanner On?
Sleeping with self-tanner on may not be the best option for creating a seamless, uniform tan. However, with proper pre-sleep preparation and an understanding of the characteristics of the self-tanner, you can sleep comfortably with it.
Do Self-Tanners Age Your Skin?
There is no evidence to support the myth that self-tanners age the skin. DHA, the active ingredient in self-tanners, only affects the outermost layer of the skin and has no impact on the deeper layers of the skin, where sun damage and skin cancer occur.
Furthermore, most self-tanners contain moisturizing ingredients to nourish and hydrate the skin.
Does Self-Tanner Rub Off On Sheets?
Self-tanners can transfer onto sheets, especially if you do not wait for the recommended time before bed or opt to use a tan accelerator. However, this can be easily avoided by following the product instructions, waiting a couple of hours before getting under the sheets, or using dark-colored bedding.
What’s The Best Way To Apply Self-Tanner?
Preparation is key:
Before applying self-tanner, it is crucial to exfoliate and moisturize your skin thoroughly. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells and creates a smooth surface for the tanner to absorb.
Use the right tools:
Investing in a self-tanning mitt is highly recommended, as it provides an even and streak-free application. Alternatively, you can use a tanning applicator brush, although it may be harder to achieve an even coat.
Go slow and steady:
To avoid streaking:
- Apply self-tanner in small sections and work your way up gradually.
- Use circular motions and blend well for a flawless finish.
- Please pay attention to areas like knees, elbows, and ankles, as they tend to absorb more self-tanner due to their dryness.
Remember your face:
Using a face self-tanner or adding a few drops of self-tanner to your moisturizer is the perfect way to get a subtle, natural-looking tan. Remember to blend into your hairline and neck for an even finish.
Allow time to dry:
After applying the self-tanner, please wait at least 10 minutes before getting dressed to give it time to dry. Avoid sweating or getting wet for at least 8 hours after applying to allow the tan to develop fully.
Verdict:
Achieve that perfect summer glow at home with these best affordable self-tanners for beginners. These self-tanners offer excellent quality without breaking the bank, making it easier to get the perfect tan without any fuss or mess.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick your favorite self-tanner and get ready to enjoy your summer with a perfect golden glow.
