The 14 Best Self-Tanners That Don't Streak
The 14 Best Self-Tanners That Don't Streak
Self-tanning is one of two things: fucking incredible or next-level terrible. Nope, there's no in-between, because as anyone who regularly uses self-tanner knows well, the wrong formula and technique can lead to a hot and streaky mess real quick. That's why it's so important to go into the process with (1) lots of patience and (2) the right equipment. And while I can't help you with the former (...might I suggest a little pre-tanning meditation?), I've definitely got you on the latter. Ahead, I rounded up the very best self-tanners that help you get an even, streak-free glow without even leaving your apartment.
1) Bondi Sands Self Tanning Mist
Bondi Sands
amazon.com
Whether you want a light, dark, or ultra dark glow, consider this Australian brand your new best friend. You simply shake the bottle and spray the mist onto your skin. It dries quickly but needs about six hours to fully develop, plenty of time to catch up on your Netflix queue before rinsing for a streak-free, believable glow.
2) SOL by Jergens Medium Water Mousse
Jergens
Even though the drugstore is loooooaded with self-tanners, it's hard to tell which formulas are actually effective. I'm personally a fan of this mousse from Jergens, which uses natural sugars and coconut water to soften and tan your skin simultaneously. Win win. Did I mention it smells good? Because it smells really good.
3) Jergens Natural Glow SPF 20 Face Moisturizer Self Tanner
Jergens
amazon.com
Not only does this gradual glow face moisturizer leave you with a non-streaky, believable tan, it also skips out on that harsh scent you usually find in self-tanners. Best of all, it also offers sun protection!
4) Beauty by Earth Self Tanner
Beauty by Earth
amazon.com
This self-tanner contains a natural sugar cane-derived DHA that helps give you a buildable light, medium, or dark glow. The good news: If you've avoided other tanners because you feel they seem too chemical-y, you can rest easy with this one.
5) Tanologist Face + Body Drops
Tanologist
If self-tanning mousses and creams feel like too much of a production for you, you'll love the ease of these genius little drops. Just mix two to three drops into a palmful of your daily moisturizer (body, face, or both), massage it into your skin, and wash your hands. You'll be left with a smooth (read: not splotchy) and tan finish.
6) Coola Gradual Tan Dry Body Oil
Coola
amazon.com
Love the results of your self-tanner but don't feel like going through the motions in another two days? Spritz on this quick-drying body oil from Coola and the formula works to enhance and prolong your color for another three days. BTW: It's made with a blend of chamomile and bergamot extracts, so it's super soothing, too.
7) St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist
St. Tropez
amazon.com
Even though the majority of self-tanners can be applied on your body and face, I've never had success (I usually end up looking...dirty?). That's why I love this bronzing face mist so g'damn much—I mist a thin layer underneath my makeup and it develops into a golden, glowy tan in four to eight hours. The best part? It lasts up to three days, so I don't have to worry about daily touchups.
8) Supergoop! Healthy Glow Sunless Tan SPF 40
Supergoop
dermstore.com
The coolest thing about this self-tanner spray from Supergoop is that it's got SPF 40 in the formula. After exfoliating, mist it over your clean skin, blend it with your hands in circular motions, rinse your hands ASAP, and wait for it to dry. The color takes a good two to four hours to develop into a subtle, glowy finish.
9) St. Tropez Self Tan Extra Dark Bronzing Mousse
ST TROPEZ
amazon.com
Going for the deepest glow possible? This mousse serves it up without leaving streaks thanks to its tinted hue that acts as a guide, allowing you to track where you've already applied it. All you need is patience, eight hours, and a warm shower to reveal your very believable glow.
10) NKD SKN Gradual Tan Lotion
NKD SKN
amazon.com
Made with organic extracts like aloe vera and raspberry, this nourishing self-tan lotion works its magic over the course of 2-3 days. Here's how: Use a mitt to apply to clean, dry skin, starting at the ankles and working your way up using long, circular motions. Use any excess tan for your hands or face (it can be used on your face safely!) and wait six hours before rinsing the formula off for a glow that isn't streaky. It's gradual and subtle—and best of all, it won't transfer onto your clothes or sheets.
11) Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Face
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare
This little wipe packs a big punch in the glow department. Not only does it have alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids that chemically exfoliate your skin for major glow (and to treat any acne), but it also uses microencapsulated DHA and soy proteins to leave you with a streak-free, natural-looking tan.
12) James Read Wash-Off Tan for Body
amazon.com
No time to apply gradual self-tanner? Smooth on a temporary faux-glow formula over exposed arms and legs before slipping on your clothing. This self-tanner is non-transferrable, so it won't leave marks on your collar—plus, it comes off easily with soap and water at the end of the day.
13) Tarte Brazilliance Plus + Self-Tanner with Mitt
Tarte
ulta.com
You won't find one streak on your body when you use this faux-glow formula, thanks to the mitt it comes with. Its smooth surface helps you apply the product evenly every time—and, the best part, your hands stay totally clean.
14) Cosmo Sun by Cosmopolitan Instant Body Bronzer
devoted creations
amazon.com
K, fiiiine—I'm a little biased because Cosmo is the mastermind behind this bb, but there's nothing not to love about the smooth, fragrance-free formula and the non-comedogenic (aka non pore-clogging) ingredients. Plus, it's a rinse-off tanner, so you don't have to worry about a mess.
And they'll leave you with ZERO streaks. None. Nada.