My Favorite Self-Tanners (From a Master Esthetician Who Loves a Natural Glow)

There’s just something about a golden glow that makes you feel like you’ve been on vacation… even if you’ve just been working all week in leggings and a top knot (guilty). As a master esthetician, I’ve tried a lot of self-tanners—and I’m picky. I want products that feel good on the skin, smell nice, don’t turn me orange, and ideally have a few skin-loving ingredients tucked in too.

If you’re looking for a sun-kissed boost without the UV damage, here are three of my absolute favorites:

1. Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam

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This one is such a cult fave, and for good reason. It gives you that golden, vacation-in-Bali type glow without any streaks or stickiness. The scent is like a tropical dream (think coconuts and fruit smoothies), and it dries super fast—so you don’t have to wait around awkwardly before getting dressed.

Bonus: it has ingredients like coconut, mango, and cocoa to help keep your skin soft and hydrated while you tan. It’s my go-to when I want to look like I’ve been relaxing on a beach (even if I’ve just been doing laundry).

2. COOLA Organic Sunless Tan Firming Lotion

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If you’re a lotion girlie and prefer something more gradual, this one is such a gentle glow-getter. It’s great for everyday use and slowly builds a sun-kissed tone over time—no rush, no drama.

It also has a soft pina colada scent and feels like a lightweight moisturizer. I love that it’s made with organic ingredients and gives a little skin-firming boost too. Great for anyone who’s new to self-tanning or just wants a low-maintenance glow.

3. St. Tropez Luxe Self Tan Body Serum

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This one feels fancy in the best way. It goes on like a silky body serum, so it’s super hydrating and has skin-care perks baked in (like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid). It gives a beautiful, natural-looking tan that develops in a few hours—perfect for when you want something subtle but glowy.

There’s no strong scent or messy guide color, and it absorbs quickly so you don’t have to worry about it rubbing off on your sheets or clothes. I like to use this one when I want to feel a little extra luxurious.

🐝 Esthetician Tips for the Prettiest Tan:

• Exfoliate first! Especially around elbows, knees, and ankles.

• Moisturize any dry areas beforehand so the tan goes on even.

• Use a mitt (always!), and take your time blending.

• Don’t forget your hands and feet—just use whatever’s left on the mitt at the end.

No matter which one you try, I hope you love how your skin looks and feels. You don’t need to lay in the sun to glow—these give you all the radiance with none of the damage. ✨

Let me know if you try any of these, and happy bronzing!

🌼 Affiliate Note:
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). I only share products I personally use, love, or would recommend to clients in my spa studio. Your support helps keep Bee Well Living going — thank you! 💛