The 20 best face tanner brands in 2026
Philips, TanTowel and Jergens lead our ranking of 20 face tanner brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Face Tanner brands, ranked
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1
Philips
Credibility and reliability go connected at the hip with the most innovative health and well-being brand, Philips. There are presumably very few people who have yet not given a shot at this brand, for it has been the most promising label for all personal, healthcare, and automotive products. With service operations in hundreds of countries, it delivers worldwide along with astonishing offers and a 30-day return guarantee.
Website: usa.philips.com |Brands like Philips
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
TanTowel
TanTowel gives a one-of-a-kind, efficient sunless tanning solution that is simple to apply produces a lovely color, and does not turn you orange. Their simple-to-use products are available in handy quantities that you can include in your regular beauty regimen without adding an extra step. Their innovative technology is the only product on the market that provides immediate results with a healthy glow. They strive to deliver excellent quality products for a healthy, natural-looking tan. Their whole product line exudes quality, convenience, and ease of use.
Website: tantowel.com |Brands like TanTowel
Popularity 6.5/10
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3
Jergens
Jergens started back in 1901. They have been catering to the needs of their customer base with the softest of touch and care. Jergen skin products are specifically made to return that moisture and silky smooth feel to your skin. They bottle up pure ingredients that your skin is going to love. Sweet fragrance hugs your skin with a variety of surprises along the way. Jergens have moisturizers, butter, skin smoothies, cleansers, and much more to offer you. Pamper yourself and your skin with their high-quality products.
Website: jergens.com |Brands like Jergens
Popularity 6.0/10
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4
ModelCo
ModelCo found its roots 20 years ago in 2002 with Shelley Sullivan. ModelCo creates quality makeup products that are smooth on the skin and easy on the eyes. They are highly innovative in their approach and quick to adapt to changing trends. Focusing on what women really want, their range of cosmetics has made a breakthrough in the world of beauty. ModelCo makes products with the highest quality of ingredients to ensure the satisfaction of its customers. Beauty products for your lips, skin, eyes can be found in abundance.
Website: modelco.com |Brands like ModelCo
Popularity 3.6/10
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5
tarte
Tarte is a business dedicated to creating outstanding products filled with healthy ingredients. They think that the secret to beautiful skin and long-lasting beauty begins with clean, pure ingredients—which is what they give, whether their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free, or created without silicone, phthalates, and mineral oil. They utilize only natural, skin-friendly products and avoid toxic preservatives and other contaminants. This makeup applies smoothly and stays set all day, with no need for touch-ups.
Website: tartecosmetics.com |Brands like tarte
Popularity 2.9/10
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6
Vita Liberata
Vita Liberta is the number one cosmetic brand to get the perfect tan your skin needs. With an enormous range of skin tan products, it has become a top-class brand with premium quality products. One of its bestsellers is the heavenly elixir that is s advanced tinted tanning with elixir medium, a moisturizing, cocoa-scented self-tan that seeps into your skin. It combines nourishing, organic ingredients with the most recent advances in skincare technology.
Website: vitaliberata.com |Brands like Vita Liberata
Popularity 2.9/10
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7
Dove
Dove is a beautiful home for people who like to make their looks a sense of their confidence. Dove defines beauty as something original that makes you feel like you are the best version of yourself. The company makes beauty products to enrich the experience in the beautifying process. They are entirely cruelty-free, so no animals are harmed in manufacturing. All the products are made with the purest of ingredients. Dove gives you the freedom of beauty.
Website: dove.com |Brands like Dove
Popularity 2.1/10
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8
Australian Gold
Protection cream dor skins are curated by the native Australian ingredients, hand-picked by a renowned brand named Australian Gold. It was specially curated for beachside and surf shops. Still eventually, the business expanded because of its excellent products that are not harsh to the skin and intensify the inner beauty. These are some of the most adored products by Australian Gold.
Website: australiangold.com |Brands like Australian Gold
Popularity 2.1/10
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9
Sun Bum
To get glowing and healthy skin, skin-care need to be a part of your daily routine. Sun bum provides an extensive collection of care products. The kit includes sun care lotion, lip balm, and a weightless sunscreen lotion to prevent...
Website: sunbum.com |Brands like Sun Bum
Popularity 2.1/10
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10
ergoline
Ergoline makes accessories related to beauty tanning. The products offered by Ergoline include 'Spectra'- the tanning devices equipped with advanced features and LEDs to render luxurious skin treatment at home. The devices emit selected lights which results in healthier skin....
Website: ergoline.de |Brands like ergoline
Popularity 2.1/10
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11
bliss
In search of lingerie that steps up your sexiness? In that case, quit the second thoughts and visit Bliss Lingerie to enchant yourself with fine lingerie and bras. Bliss Lingerie has lingerie, bras, bikini, g-string, sexy robe, sleepwear, and much...
Website: blisslingerie.net |Brands like bliss
Popularity 1.5/10
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12
Caudalie
The entire world has anti-aging and long life, so Caudalie opted to focus on anti-aging from the inside out, known as vinotherapy. By utilizing the power of the vine for your beauty requirements, vinotherapy unveils your skin's true potential through...
Website: us.caudalie.com |Brands like Caudalie
Popularity 1.5/10
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13
Clarins
Clarins was established in 1954. The founder wanted to create this brand to understand women's needs. They wanted to create an attractive solution for all the women's needs in the beauty sector. They have taken inspiration from nature by studying...
Website: clarinsusa.com |Brands like Clarins
Popularity 1.5/10
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14
Alba Botanica
Alba Botanica is a plant-based product made with 100% vegetarian ingredients that incorporate botanical components. Cleansers for acne treatments are available in the face catalog, while shampoos and conditioners are available in the hair catalog. There are body washes, body...
Website: albabotanica.com |Brands like Alba Botanica
Popularity 1.5/10
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15
Rodan + Fields
Founded in 2000 by two exceptional Dermatologists, Rodan + Fields is a brand that strives to offer individuals a nourishing skincare regime that would give them the confidence to step out into the world. Their product portfolio comprises high-quality and...
Website: rodanandfields.com |Brands like Rodan + Fields
Popularity 1.5/10
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16
bareMinerals
Bare Minerals is a widely known and loved cosmetic brand that makes clean makeup products to enhance the beauty of people. Their makeup is made from quality ingredients and does not harm the skin. The company is also cruelty-free, and...
Website: bareminerals.com |Brands like bareMinerals
Popularity 1.5/10
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17
Ultrasun
The UV rays that come from the Sun are harmful to human health. It can have chances to cause various skin diseases. Ultrasun is a brand that manufactures various skincare products which save from sun rays. They all are made...
Website: ultrasun.com |Brands like Ultrasun
Popularity 1.5/10
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18
Fake Bake
If bronze is your happy color, Fake Bake is here to make you most joyful. Fake Bake is here to give you that natural-glowing bronze look throughout the entire year. It offers easy-to-use self-tanning products to provide you with that...
Website: fakebake.com |Brands like Fake Bake
Popularity 1.5/10
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19
James Read
James Read Tan is a leading brand of tanning products, crafted and developed by the renowned spray tan artist James Read, who has worked with the top names in the fashion and music industries and gained much repute. Known for...
Website: jamesreadtan.com |Brands like James Read
Popularity 1.5/10
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20
St. Moriz
St. Moriz is a vegan-friendly cosmetic products brand. Established in 2008, the brand strives to provide high-quality self-tanning products for women who love a natural sun-tan look. After 14 years, the brand continues to offer consistent product offerings at affordable...
Website: stmoriz.co.uk |Brands like St. Moriz
Popularity 1.5/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philips | usa.philips.com | /Philips | – | @philips | – |
| TanTowel | tantowel.com | /tantowel | tantowel | @tantowel | – |
| Jergens | jergens.com | /jergensUS | jergensus | – | – |
| ModelCo | modelco.com | /modelco | modelco | – | ModelCo |
| tarte | tartecosmetics.com | /tarte-cosmetics | tartecosmetics | @tartecosmetics | tartecosmetics |
| Vita Liberata | vitaliberata.com | /Vita-Liberata | p | @vitaliberata | – |
| Dove | dove.com | /DoveIndia | dove | @Dove_IND | DoveIndia |
| Australian Gold | australiangold.com | /livethegoldlife | australiangold | – | – |
| Sun Bum | sunbum.com | /babybum2 | babybum | @babybum | Sun Bum |
| ergoline | ergoline.de | /ErgolineWorld | ergolineworld | – | ErgolineWorld |
Face Tanner Buying Guide: Tips on Choosing the Best One
If you want to get that sunkissed glow without risking the harmful effects of UV rays, a face tanner might be your best bet. But with so many options available in the market, how do you know which one is the best fit for you? In this buying guide, we'll walk you through the key factors you need to consider before making a purchase.
Types of Face Tanner
Before anything else, you need to understand that there are two main types of face tanners: self-tanners and bronzers. While both can help you achieve a tan look, they function differently.
Self-Tanners
Self-tanners rely on an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to darken the skin. This chemical reacts with the amino acids in the upper layer of the skin, resulting in a tan-like appearance. The effect can last for several days, depending on the product and how often you exfoliate.
The key advantage of self-tanners is their convenience. Once you apply them on your face, you don't have to worry about exposing yourself to UV rays or waiting for hours in a tanning bed. They are also customizable, as you can choose how intense you want your tan to be by adjusting the amount and frequency of application.
On the downside, self-tanners can be tricky to apply. If you don't do it right, you might end up with streaks or patches. They also have a distinct smell, which some people find unpleasant. Finally, self-tanners don't offer any protection from the sun, so you still need to use sunscreen if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Bronzers
Bronzers, on the other hand, work by depositing a layer of pigment on top of the skin. They come in various forms, such as powders, creams, and sprays. The effect is immediate, and you can wash it off at the end of the day.
The main advantage of bronzers is their ease of use. You don't need any special skills or tools, and you can apply them whenever you want to add some color to your face. They also come in different shades and finishes, so you can choose the one that matches your skin tone and desired look.
The downside of bronzers is that they can look unnatural if you apply too much or choose the wrong shade. They can also rub off on clothing or other surfaces, especially if you sweat or touch your face.
Factors to Consider
Now that you know the basic differences between self-tanners and bronzers, let's dive into the factors you should consider when choosing a face tanner.
Skin Type
Your skin type plays a crucial role in determining which face tanner is best for you. If you have dry or sensitive skin, for instance, you might want to avoid self-tanners that contain alcohol, fragrance, or other irritants. Instead, opt for products that are formulated with hydrating and soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, vitamin E, or chamomile.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for self-tanners that are oil-free and non-comedogenic. These products won't clog your pores or worsen your breakouts. You might also want to choose a matte finish instead of a shiny one, as it can help minimize the appearance of pores and shine.
For bronzers, the skin type is less of an issue, as they sit on top of the skin and don't penetrate it. However, you still want to consider your skin tone and undertone when selecting a shade. If you have fair skin, for example, you might want to avoid shades that are too dark or warm, as they can look orange or muddy.
Ingredients
Your face tanner's ingredients can make a big difference in terms of its effectiveness, safety, and comfort. Here are some of the key ingredients to look for and avoid:
Self-Tanner Ingredients
- DHA: The main ingredient in self-tanners. Look for products that contain 5-10% DHA for a natural-looking tan.
- Plant-derived extracts: These can provide additional benefits such as hydration, anti-aging, or anti-inflammatory. Examples include aloe vera, green tea, or argan oil.
- Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, and E can help nourish and protect the skin from damage. They are often included in self-tanners' formulas.
- Fragrance: While fragrance can make a product more appealing, it can also cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin. If possible, choose unscented or naturally scented products.
- Alcohol: Alcohol can dry out and irritate the skin, so it's best to avoid products that contain it, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.
Bronzer Ingredients
- Natural pigments: Look for bronzers that use natural pigments such as mica, iron oxide, or titanium oxide. These are less likely to cause irritation or allergies than synthetic pigments.
- Minerals: Minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can provide sun protection and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Moisturizers: Some bronzers contain moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, cocoa butter, or coconut oil to prevent dryness and flakiness.
- Silica: Silica is a common ingredient in bronzers that adds a smooth and silky finish. However, if you have sensitive skin, it can cause irritation or redness.
- Fragrance: Similar to self-tanners, fragrance can be added to bronzers for a pleasant smell but can cause irritation for some skin types.
Application Method
Another factor to consider is the application method of your face tanner. Some products are easier to apply than others, and some require more time and effort to get the desired result. Here are some common application methods for self-tanners and bronzers:
Self-Tanner Application Methods
- Lotion: Self-tanning lotion is the most common and versatile option. You can use your hands or a mitt to apply it, and it usually dries within a few minutes. However, you need to be careful not to apply too much, as it can leave streaks or patches.
- Mousse: Self-tanning mousse is lighter and easier to spread than lotion. It also dries faster and doesn't feel as sticky. However, it's harder to control the amount you apply, and it can be messier than lotion.
- Spray: Self-tanning spray is convenient and efficient since you can cover larger areas quickly. However, it can be harder to apply evenly, and you need to be careful not to inhale the spray or get it in your eyes.
- Wipes: Self-tanning wipes are pre-soaked with tanning solution and can be used on the go. They are also easy to dispose of and don't require any cleanup. However, they can be more expensive than other options and may not provide enough solution for larger areas.
Bronzer Application Methods
- Powder: Bronzing powder is the most common form of bronzer. It's easy to blend and build up, and you can use it to contour and highlight your face. However, it can be messy and may fade or transfer throughout the day.
- Cream: Bronzing cream is a more pigmented and hydrating option than powder. It's easy to blend and gives a dewy finish, but it can feel heavy on the skin and may be too shiny for some people.
- Stick: Bronzing stick is a convenient and travel-friendly option. You can use it to apply and blend the product, and it won't spill or break easily. However, it may not blend as well as other forms and can be difficult to apply on smaller or curved areas.
- Spray: Bronzing spray is similar to self-tanning spray, but it provides an instant color instead of a gradual one. It's easy to apply and cover larger areas, but it can be harder to control the amount and may cause streaks or discoloration if not applied evenly.
Finish
Finally, consider the finish of your face tanner. Do you prefer a matte or shiny look? A subtle or bold effect? The finish can influence how natural and flattering your tan looks on your skin. Here are some common finishes for self-tanners and bronzers:
Self-Tanner Finishes
- Matte: Matte self-tanners provide a natural and subtle look that can mimic a real tan. They are less likely to emphasize fine lines or imperfections and can be worn under makeup.
- Shimmer: Shimmer self-tanners add a subtle sparkle or glow to the skin. They can be used to highlight specific areas or add some dimension to your tan.
- Gradual: Gradual self-tanners build up the color gradually over time, so you can control the intensity and avoid any sudden changes. They are also easier to maintain and less likely to fade unevenly.
- Instant: Instant self-tanners provide an immediate and noticeable change. They are perfect for special occasions or when you want a quick fix. However, they may not look as natural or last as long as gradual tanners.
Bronzer Finishes
- Matte: Matte bronzers provide a natural and subtle contour that can create shadows and angles on the face. They are excellent for sculpting and defining the features.
- Shimmer: Shimmer bronzers add a luminous and glowing effect to the skin, which can make you look more radiant and illuminated. They are ideal for summer or evening looks.
- Satin: Satin bronzers provide a balanced and blendable finish that can enhance your natural skin tone without looking too matte or too shimmery. They are versatile and suitable for everyday makeup looks.
- Glossy: Glossy bronzers add a wet-like effect to the skin that can make you look dewy and fresh. They are perfect for beach or poolside looks.
Conclusion
Choosing the right face tanner can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. By considering your skin type, ingredients, application method, and finish, you can narrow down your options and find the one that suits your needs and preferences the most. Don't forget to read reviews and try samples before buying a full-sized product, and always follow the instructions for best results. With the right face tanner, you can enjoy a safe and beautiful tan all year round.
