The use of self-tanning products has become an essential aspect of many women’s beauty regimens. Achieving a golden complexion is not only aesthetically pleasing but, in my personal view, can also enhance a woman’s self-esteem.
Self-tanners can help a woman achieve the sunkissed-glow look without exposing her skin to harmful UV rays that cause premature wrinkles and skin cancer.
But what about when you’re pregnant? Do you have to hit the pause button on your golden glow? Absolutely not!
Are Self-Tanners Safe During Pregnancy?
Any self-tanning creams or lotions that are applied to the skin topically are perfectly safe to use during pregnancy.
If you’re in the market for a self-tanner, you’re probably wondering where to start since there are so many options.
Unfortunately, when it comes to self-tanners, it is hard to find a “holy grail” product that everyone loves.
There are ALWAYS mixed reviews about streakiness, smell, color, etc.
It really comes down to preference, application method, and budget since the higher-quality products tend to be on the pricier side.
Of course, it’s always best to look for organic ingredients and avoid products containing parabens, mineral oil, formaldehyde, alcohol, and strong fragrances.
In this article, we’ve narrowed it down to 22 of the most popular self-tanners, though they aren’t listed in any particular order. You’ll find options for all kinds of tastes, preferences, and budgets.
My absolute FAVORITE sunless tan products come from a Chicago-based company called Glo Up.
I use their Sunless Tan Mist and Bronzing Face Mist.
All of their products are natural and organic pharmaceutical-grade cosmetics – PETA registered, Vegan, and Paraben Free, formulated WITHOUT harsh chemicals or cancer-causing ingredients.
1. The Organic Pharmacy Self Tan
This is an affordable organic option that is natural looking and also nourishes and conditions your skin.
It is made of natural sugar beets, coconut oil, shea butter, and sesame oil. It’s absolutely free of harmful chemicals or toxins!
2. Golden Star Beauty Organic Self Tanner Lotion
This is another affordable option that is made of organic ingredients and is healthy for your skin, even the sensitive skin on your face.
It also comes with a tanning mitt to help you get an even, streak-free glow. There are also multiple color options for varying skin tones.
3. Miami Gorgeous LaPlaya Glow Self-Tanning Mousse
This tanning mousse is packed with vitamins and minerals to give your skin a healthy glow while smoothing and nourishing it in the process.
You will get between 10 and 12 uses out of each bottle, and manufacturers claim that you will never be streaky or orange.
4. VITA LIBERATA Advanced Organics Fabulous Self-Tanning Lotion
Vita Liberata has a clear, buildable formula that will hydrate your skin and build a natural-looking tan after a couple of uses.
Previous users rave about how easy it is to use, especially for first-time self-tanners.
5. Eco Tan Organic Invisible Tan
This is another organic and eco-friendly option that also happens to be an award-winning self-tanner!
There are no artificial or synthetic ingredients in its formula — only organic, natural ingredients.
6. Botanic Tree Faux Glow Self Tanner
This is a very affordable option that is plant based and organic. It is fast absorbing, so you will not have to wait forever to get dressed after application.
7. Skinerals Californium Self Tanner
Unlike other self-tanner formulas, this is a green-based solution that counteracts the fake orange look that is a common issue with other self-tanners.
8. Coco & Eve Self Tanner Mousse Kit
Coco & Eve is a bit more pricey, but it has over 5,000 reviews and an excellent rating.
It is organic, and users claim that its scent alone makes it worth it over other self-tanners.
9. Beauty by Earth Self Tanner Tanning Lotion
This is another pregnancy-safe option made with natural, botanical ingredients that will give you a sun-kissed glow.
10. Dove Summer Revived Gradual Tanning Lotion
This product is a very affordable option that is good for those with fair or light skin.
Users claim that it does not have a very strong tint/color, even after several uses.
11. Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Body Mousse
This is probably the most widely used self-tanner on the market. It is not the most organic or natural option; however, it is affordable and will give you a bronzed glow.
Having used this product myself, I can say that you get what you pay for. It can come out a tad orange and doesn’t smell the best.
However, it is not a bad option if you are looking for a more budget-friendly tanner.
12. + Lux Unfiltered N°32 Hydrating Self Tanning Cream
This is another organic, botanical option that comes in two different scents: rose and sandalwood.
13. Sun Laboratories Ultra Dark Self-Tanning Lotion
There are many pleased users of this product. It is not extremely overpriced, and users say that a little goes a long way, so you can get a lot out of one bottle.
14. Love at First Tan Self Tanning Mousse
This is another green-formula self-tanner option to counteract the oompa-loompa orange! With many pleased users, it is one of the more highly rated products in the market.
15. TAN-LUXE The Gradual – Illuminating Gradual Tan Lotion
If you want a gradual, buildable self-tanning lotion, this is a good option! Users say that it doesn’t come on too strong and is a good, everyday moisturizer that also gives you a glow.
16. MineTan Self Tanner Kit
This is a unique, vegan tanner that is a blend of coconut water, coconut, avocado, and jojoba oils.
It contains antioxidants, comes with an application mitt, and is said to lock in moisture to hydrate the skin.
17. Famous Dave’s Small Batch Reserve Self Tanner
Here is another less-common option, but it may be a hidden gem. Users seem to be thrilled with the product and claim that it is worth the extra money.
18. Isle of Paradise Glow Clear Self Tanning Mousse
This is an affordable tanning mousse that comes in three different color options and goes on clear to prevent transfer or staining.
19. Bondi Sands 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam
With this product, you are supposed to get a natural-looking tan in just one hour after application.
The fact that it is free of fragrance is nice, and the longer you leave it on your skin before washing it off, the deeper the color will be.
20. St.Tropez Classic Self Tanner Bronzer Mousse
St. Tropez is probably the most popular premium self-tanner. It is the most highly rated product on this list, but it does come with a price tag.
If your budget allows, this is a high-quality, safe option that will give you a nice sunless tan.
21. COOLA Organic Sunless Self Tanner Body Firming Lotion
If you’re looking for a self-tanner that doubles as a firming lotion, take a look at this product! It claims to leave skin soft and supple while smoothing and tightening at the same time.
22. Tan Physics True Color Sunless Tanner
This is another pricey, premium, luxurious option, but its reviews reflect many satisfied users that are happy with the buildable, natural-looking tan it gives.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found this list helpful and that you were able to find a few options that meet your needs, preferences, and budget!
Charlynn is an educator and mom to fraternal boy/girl twins. She loves learning through the experiences she has with her littles and using her knowledge to help other moms as they embark on the journey of motherhood.