By this point in the summer, most of us have likely already obtained the kind of sleek, perfectly bronzed limbs that can only be achieved by a season spent lounging poolside and at the beach. And as we all know, tanning comes with extreme health hazards associated with sun exposure— including premature wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer— which is why many sun-worshippers (myself included) avoid exposing our faces to the sun’s harmful UV rays, resulting in a mis-matched skin tone that requires wearing foundation two shades darker in order to evenly match the rest of our body. Alternatively, there are a plethora of self-tanners on the market that can help you achieve a natural, lit-from-within glow right at home.
From tropical scented mists to hydrating drops you can mix in with your moisturizer, the latest crop of innovations are effective and easy to use, offering even, streak-free results that make it look like you’ve spent the last weeks of summer eating oysters on a yacht in the Amalfi Coast. The trick, if you want a perfect glow, is to make sure you exfoliate and moisturize your skin at least 24-hours in advance to ensure you have the perfect base for an effortless tan that won’t look patchy or streaky. Below, our favorite self-tanners for the face designed to deliver a natural-looking bronze.
Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water
125 AED/SAR
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This transfer-proof spray takes 6 to 8 hours to develop, resulting in an even, streak-free tan. Packed with grapefruit, chia seed, and avocado oils, the formula was designed to offer a long-lasting, hydrated glow.
Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops
147 AED/SAR
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You can wear this bronzing serum on its own or underneath makeup for a short-term, effortless tan. Packed with a blend of fatty acids, virgin marula, and black currant seed oils, this product also protects the skin against environmental stressors and staves off free radicals.
Dior Self Tanning Jelly Gradual Glow
177 AED/SAR
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The skin-enhancing formula immediately melts into the skin, providing a natural, sun-kissed glow that intensifies each day.
Clarins Self-Tanning Tinted Gel
136 AED/SAR
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Boasting a combination of naturally-sourced DHA and erythulose, this gel formula delivers an even, natural glow that could seriously pass off as your own.
St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist
130 AED/SAR
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This ultra lightweight, vegan mist is infused with all natural tanning agents, as well as hibiscus extract for its antioxidant properties. An added bonus: It doesn’t have the telltale self-tan smell.
Nuxe Self-Tanner Moisturizing Sublimator
131 AED/SAR
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This formula provides a healthy, golden glow in just two-hours from right at home. Apply daily until the desired effect is achieved, then as required to maintain results.
Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops
138 AED/SAR
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Transform your favorite moisturizer, serum, oil, or lotion into a self-tanner with a few drops of this ultra-convenient formula. With the skin boosting properties of raspberry seed oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera, this product adapts to your skin tone, tailoring a custom glow that’s totally unique to you.
