The Best Self-Tanners for Every Skin Type
Here’s how to achieve a healthy, sun-kissed glow at home without compromising your skin’s health.
After a long and dreadfully pale Canadian winter, we couldn’t be happier that tanning season has officially arrived. Days are warmer and the sun is out longer—a sweet reward after a long winter and a chilly start to spring. But as much as we look forward to soaking up the sunshine, the prospect of tanning doesn’t come without its drawbacks.
Excessive sunbathing can deal some serious damage to your health, including increasing the risk of premature aging and skin cancer. Luckily, there’s a surefire way to secure your most bronzed and beautiful tan without all the adverse sun effects—say hello to self-tanners.
The holy grail of glowy skin products, self-tanners are perfect for those who long for that sun-kissed look but don’t want to overexpose themselves to the sun—or even those who constantly spend a small fortune on spray tans or deal with the harsh reality of tanning beds. The best part? Most self-tanners are extremely easy to use. It often doesn’t take much longer than a couple of minutes to achieve a thorough application that will leave you bronzed for days. Plus, they work fast—and we mean fast—with some products promising results in just a few short hours. Last minute beach day plans? Not a problem.
Of course, the secret to getting the most out of your self-tanner is to pick the product that’s best suited to your skin type and tanning needs. If you’re looking for a glow that gets more pronounced over time, a gradual tanner may be up your alley. Struggle with dry skin? We’ve got just the picks for you. Plus, not all self-tanners are made equal, which is why we’ve sought out the best options for both lighter and darker skin tones.
Read on for the best self-tanners of 2025. Your most radiant glow awaits.
The best gradual self-tanners
If you’re hoping to have complete control over how your tan will develop, gradual self-tanners are perfect for you. These products slowly build up your colour over time, giving you a natural look while reducing the likelihood of self-tanning mishaps (no streaks or blotchiness here!). For the best results, prioritize products formulated with DHA—an omega-3 fatty acid that’s linked to several health improvements—which works to even out the skin tone. The result? A more natural, long-lasting look. Also look out for options that include niacinamide and peptides as these ingredients will help improve your skin’s texture and barrier while supporting your new gorgeous glow.
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The best self-tanners for dry skin
Sun exposure is inevitable in the summer months, but dry skin? That we can do something about—with a little help from a moisturizing self-tanner. These products often feature rich ingredients like plant-based butters and oils that help lock in moisture while the tan develops, and hyaluronic acid that supports thirsty skin. For a self-tanner that puts skincare first, these offerings promise equal amounts of nourishment and radiance in just one step.
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Saltyface Tanning Moisturizer
The best self-tanners for pale skin
Finding a self-tanner that complements lighter skin tones is no easy feat. It needs to appear bronzed, but not orange or muddy. It should deliver good coverage, but not appear streaky nor uneven. Luckily, we’ve rounded up our top-shelf self-tanners on the market, ones that are specifically formulated for paler skin tones. These products offer buildable colour with the right undertones to suit your fair complexion. Plus, they’re all infused with skincare-grade ingredients that help hydrate and soothe the skin as your tan develops.
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Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Body Drops for Pale Skin
Lux Unfiltered N°32 Tanning Cream in Classic
The best self-tanners for deeper skin
Just as it’s often difficult to find the right self-tanner for pale skin, it can be equally challenging to find an at-home tanning product that actually delivers on darker skin tones. The goal for these products isn’t just added colour, but unlocking an even skin tone, boosted radiance and revealing a glowing complexion. Our favourite picks below are not only formulated with rich pigments, but are also infused with nourishing ingredients.
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St. Tropez Self Tan Suprême Violet Bronzing Mousse
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Stephanie Davoli is the editorial assistant at FASHION Magazine. With a passion for all things fashion, beauty and pop culture, she’s inspired by fashion psychology, sustainability and industry innovations. Her previous bylines include The Toronto Star, Chatelaine and The Quality Edit. When she’s not working, you can find her shopping, taking a Pilates class or combing through the Vogue archives.
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