One of the Best Self Tanner blog site visitors recently sent me an email with a great story about her experience with tanning and self-tanners and her quest to find the best self tanner. As there are always new products being discovered, I thought it would be great to add this story to the Best Self Tanner blog.

Best Self Tanner – Sophia’s Story

Sophia is a student nurse in her final year of school in the northern part of New York State, an area which doesn’t see as much year-round sun as other areas in our country. Being in school and extremely busy with work, classes and hospital shifts, she does not have the finances to take vacations down south or to even make her way to a tanning salon. Last summer, her boyfriend of nearly 6 years proposed to her and their wedding was set for Christmas time of this year. They wanted only a small wedding with close family and friends with the reception at a local restaurant/bar. For the months leading up to the wedding, Sophia wanted to find the best self tanner for her wedding day that would not give her a freakish smell, make her look orange and streaky or stain her wedding dress on the big day. Also, having to do close-up and personal physical assessments on patients meant that she really needed to get the best self tanner that didn’t smell the way that most self-tanners make you smell.

Best Self Tanner : Sophia’s Experience

From Sophia’s experience, she recommends the same things to look for in the best self tanner:

• minimal smell
• low DHA concentration for a gradual tan build and less smell
• the proper shade for your skin
• moisturizing agents

..and also using the best self tanner application techniques such as:

• showering and exfoliating heavily before application

• applying at night, showering the next morning to prevent smell
• applying product mostly to smooth parts of limbs and only feathering product over bony areas such as elbows, ankles, knees, fingers and toes.

The Best Self Tanner – Finding Idol Tan

She looked online for a high quality product that was being offered at a great deal. When she first found IdolTan, a product that claimed it has been rated the best self tanner by many marketing sites and self tanner reviews, she was somewhat skeptical because of how the website was set-up. But from the reviews she had been reading on sites like Amazon from real customers, people were saying a lot of good things so she decided to give it a risk-free purchase from their website. Sophia found that it had a great consistency and was full of moisturizing ingredients! Also, it worked gradually but over time did have the ability to create a pretty dark effect. She says the tone was bronze-brown and not orange and looked very natural which is very important when looking for the best self tanner. She used the product for one month up to a few days before the wedding after which she stopped to let the last tiny bit of smell dissipate and to let the colour relax to a very natural bronze. Her pictures turned out great and everyone complemented her on how happy and healthy she looked that day.

Although I have not personally tried IdolTan, Sophia has highly recommended it, especially for future brides like herself, and has found a great coupon deal on their website which is here:

Thank you so much Sophia for sharing with your fellow self-tanners! We will definately take your advice and try IdolTan for ourselves and thank you for contributing to the Best Self Tanner  blog!

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You know you’ve said it before “I am going to quit tanning!” and not look for the Best Self Tanner any more. But its not as easy as it sounds. We all love to have that sun-kissed bronzed skin that makes us look like we are healthy, relaxed and like we just got back from a tropical vacay. Tanning by laying out outside or with the use of tanning salons is NOT HEALTHY. It has been proven to lead to skin cancers and melanomas which can even spread to other areas of the body! This is because the harmful UV rays of the sun lead to mutations in the skin cells. Health care professionals such as dermatologists recommend that the only healthy way to achieve a dark appearance of the skin is to use sunless (self) tanner products. However, many people avoid using these products mostly because they do not know how to avoid the common issues faced when using self tanner such as streaking, orange palms and the bad smell. With the proper techniques using the best self tanner products, achieving the bronzed look is easy.  That is why I created the Best Self Tanner  blog, to help you achieve the best tanned look possible!

Best Self Tanner :  What Do I Know?

I have been using self-tanner for quite a while now because of my pale complexion. Ever since, I always get asked “Where did you just get back from?” and get complemented on my beautiful and soft skin (especially by the men!).

Best Self Tanner : My Personal Experience

Over time with personal experience, guidance of cosmetic experts and dermatologists and through product research and reviews, I have found the best self tanner products on the market. When you are looking for a self tanner remember that the best self tanner:

• Matches your skin tone. If you are very pale in complexion (think Nicole Kidman pale) then the best self tanner for you will have a lower DHA concentration. If you have a more golden complexion then the best self tanner for you may have a higher DHA concentration.
• Has minimal smell
• Is affordable or long-lasting
• Goes on smoothly in the form of a cream of an aerosol spray. This is mostly based on personal preference. A good consistency makes it easier to put on
• Has moisturizing ingredients such as oils and vitamins B or E

The Best Self Tanner – St Tropez – A tropical dream come true!

After a few more months of trying out different products, I am really starting to think that the best self tanner for me are the St Tropez products. I bought the 32oz bulk bottle of St Tropez on Amazon and it has lasted me more than 6 months. The huge bottle allows me not to stinge out on product. The consistency is really nice too and you only need a little bit because it spreads out thinly and evenly. I also have the mousse type and find that this consistency is even lighter and smoother, although the bottle is more expensive. I use the mousse on my face because it the most-seen part of my body. It builds the tan gradually so that it doesn’t streak or leave patches. Although this product is a little bit more expensive that your usual drug store varieties, it is the best self tanner that I have come across so far and its beautiful tone, consistency, moisturizing capability and minimal smell make it all that much more worth it. If you think about it, going to the tanning salon can cost us more than $50 per month – so the St Tropez bulk bottle makes it worth it if it lasts more than 2 months! I used to go to tanning salons alot when I was a teenager and that is probably why I was broke. I would spend all my money from my minimum wage job on looking good. Oh how I wish I had my best self tanner – St Tropez back then haha.

Filed Under: Best Self Tanner

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I just love when I can get the perfect tan by using the Best Self Tanner . Do you want to know which one I use? Well I setup the Best Self Tanner  for that purpose and wanted to help others out who also want that perfect skin tone.  So let us go down the path and look at our option before you buy one:

The Number 1 Best Self Tanner – St. Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Bronzing Lotion

The St Tropez line is by far the best quality with the best price and my choice for the best self tanner. You can buy a 32 oz. Bottle of lotion which will last you a long time! This is way more affordable than regular tanning and is a lot safer! This product is highly rated on amazon, an online shopping centre which offers great package deals and bulk varieties of the St Tropez products.

The St Tropez bronzing lotion has been raved these days and boasts a more olive colour as opposed to orange making it the best self tanner. It also can give much darker effects than some of the cheaper drug store varieties of lotions. I personally use the St Tropez line of products because it is so easy and convenient to put on, doesn’t streak as much as other products due to its lower DHA concentration and you only have to put it on twice per week to maintain your colour! St Tropez also has a mousse which is slightly more expensive but is lighter in consistency, leaves less streaks and takes less time to dry (only 3-5 minutes). This product gives the same results every time I use it and easily the best self tanner.

One recommendation I have is to mix the self tanner lotion with regular lotion for joints such as elbows and knees to prevent darkening of these areas. Also, to add to your the best self tanner I recommend you get  the application mitt that you can purchase separately on amazon as it works AMAZINGLY to prevent darkening on the palms! Also, St Tropez also makes the self tanner remover which works well to remove any streaks that may inadvertently occur.

The Runner Up Best Self Tanner – Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel

This is another product that I sometimes use to change it up every once in a while. Although it is more expensive than the St Tropez brand, the Clarins Gel is highly rated by buyers and has 4 out of 5 stars on amazon, one of the best ratings for self tanners out there! A lot of buyers say this is is the best self tanner they have ever used and that it is spotless!

The gel promotes a natural, golden tan gradually. It is absorbed quickly and changes colour within 2 hours of application. Because it almost instantly absorbs, you don’t have to wait as long to get dressed. Also the added ingredient of Arythrulose promotes a longer-lasting tan. The best self tanner runner up  also contains some anti-aging formula. The gel is actually quite refreshing to put on and since it is more expensive, I personally tend to apply this only to my face area and other areas that are more often seen. Because it has a slight sheen to it, you can see where you have applied it which further helps to reduce streaking.

Also, buyers note that although the runner up best self tanner doesn’t smell as bad as other self tanners, there is a slight smell of nail polish remover which personally I do not mind as much as that gross self tanner smell! If you can afford it, definitely go for this brand, and buy multiple bottles at once!!

Best Self Tanner – 3^rd Place – SheerTan Sunless Tanning Wand and Tanning Spray

This kit features a sunless tanning wand that emits an aerosol mist of sunless tanner at the push of a button. The wand allows users to reach hard to reach areas like the back, buttocks and back of the legs making it 3rd place on the list of the best self tanner. The wand uses compressed air (not chemicals) and so is environmentally friendly. The SheerTan kit has received some of the best ratings on sites like amazon where 32 buyers gave it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, WOW.

The best self tanner that is number third on our list also contains Erythrulose which lengthens the duration of the tan. The formula is lightweight and clear and doesn’t make your skin feel oily.  It also doesn’t have as harsh of a smell as Mystic Tan in salons and tends to fade more gradually so it doesn’t leave those freckly marks. One can can last from 5-15 applications depending on how much you spray on. The formula does take longer to absorb than the Clarins brand so be patient while it absorbs and while it develops (e.g. Wait overnight before re-applying or you might see too dramatic of results) as this way you’ll get the best out of this best self tanner. The SheerTan brand recommends moisturizing immediately after applying the tanning spray on legs and arms only to help prevent darkening on bony prominences. They suggest using moisturizers that do not contain amino compounds such as amino acids, alpha hydroxyl acids, any zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, acrylic thickeners (like carbomer) and silicone as these will cause a less desirable color change.

Best Self Tanner 4^th Place – Body Drench Quick Tan – Self-Tanning Spray

Similiar to the SheerTan formula is the Body Drench Quick Tan spray which comes in an aerosol spray is another great product that is still highly rated and reviewed by actual users (4 out of 5 stars on amazon) making it the 4th place for the best self tanner. This product is much cheaper than the others but does not last as long as you have to put it on every 2 to 3 days as opposed to twice per week. The price is about $10 per can but I would buy the 3-pack as it will last longer that way.

The formula itself is a lightweight spray that has great coverage. It goes on with a chocolately appearance allowing for easier viewing of where it has been applied which prevents streaking. It does have a slight smell, but this can be reduced by showering in the morning after you apply it. Like other best self tanner on our list, this formula works best when applied to freshly cleaned and exfoliated, dry skin. They recommend putting regular lotion on knees, elbows, ankles, finer and toe nails before applying to help reduce dying in those areas. The product is also messier as just like hairspray, the product tends to just go everywhere. The best place to use it is in the shower! Amazon has great user instructions to help you get the best results possible!

The Best Self Tanner – A Tanner You Awaits!

Now that you have learned all you need to about best self tanner and tips and techniques for application, you are well on your way to getting that sun-kissed glow that makes you feel so great and healthy! I really hope that all this information helped you, and as per my recommendations, if you are completely at a loss, just go for my number one recommendation for the best self tanner, the St Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Bronzing lotion as it is a great, easy to use, nicely coloured and highly rated product! It is easily available at all the links I provided to you online as it can be hard to find in stores. If you want to try something else, the Clarins, SheerTan and Body Drench QuickTan are also very solid options! Whatever product you decide to try out, make sure you follow the directions and the tips on this website to prevent the self tanner foes that so many women complain of! Best of luck to you on your adventure to your new skin tone! Sincerely, your faithful reviewer at Best Self Tanner blog.

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Do you want to know what is the best self tanner? If you are like me and have naturally pasty fair skin but crave that golden, sun-kissed appearance that makes you look like you just came back from an all-inclusive vacay, the easiest and safest way to get it is to use self tanning products and in our case the Best Self Tanner. When you buy the right products and learn how to effectively apply them you will end up with great results!

As a young woman getting into the entertainment industry and a dance, Yoga and Zumba instructor, I became self-aware of my pasty, blonde appearance, especially in the winter and really needed to find the best self tanner. As I have been developing in these areas, it became important not only for my career, but for my self confidence to appear relaxed, refreshed and sun-kissed all year round. My clients, family and friends have all been commenting about how young, energetic and healthy I appeared and this helps me foster my business because these women want to look just like me so I setup this Best Self Tanner site! As a health conscious person, self-tanner became my number one option for getting that tanned-babe look without risking my safety. I am also thrilled that I won’t be getting those gross sun skin wrinkles when I hit age 60!!

All sunless tanners work because of a chemical called DHA (dihydroxyacetone) which is a harmless chemical that changes pigment when it contacts your skin. This is also the same chemical that gives sunless tanner products that dreaded self-tanner smell, ew yuck. Although this smell is inevitable, the best self tanner has minimal smell and there are a few techniques to get rid of it which you will discover as you keep reading.

The Best Self Tanner – What is it anyways?

Best Self Tanner Hint #1: It is not sunscreen. DHA colours skin. It does not protect against UV rays which harm and age the skin and can even cause skin conditions such as skin cancer. Dermatologists and healthcare professionals alike strongly discourage us to tan in the sun. They DO recommend the use of self-tanners as the DHA chemical has been proven to be safe for the skin. If you are applying a self-tanner, do not think you are sun safe. Wait until the self tanner is dry and apply sunscreen with SPF15 or greater when going outside.

Best Self Tanner Hint #2 It is not a sun-enhancer. Unlike products which are used to enhance the energy and tanning ability of our skin, self-tanners work literally by dying the skin with a pigment chemical. Again, this is much safer than exposing skin to harmful UV rays. This also allows us to get a sun-kissed appearance even in cold months when we are not exposed to the sun. 

The Best Self Tanner – Solutions to Self Tanner Difficulties 

Best Self Tanner Difficulty #1: It streaks! Self tanners that have too high of a concentration of DHA for your skin tone are proned to streaking. For example, if you accidentally leave more lotion on a certain part of your body, this will dry darker than other parts. The best self tanner gives lighter concentrations that build the tan gradually over a number of days. This way, the inconsistencies even out. Also, by exfoliating and cleaning your skin before applying the lotion or spray, you rid your skin of patchy areas which may absorb lotion more adding to the streaked or patchy appearance. Also, using a fine mist application methods such as aerosol spray may help to give a more even coat of product.

Best Self Tanner Difficulty #2: It smells! When it comes to using self-tanner, one of the most common complaints is the horrible smell! Many people are turned off by this and are continually disappointed when every lotion they buy has the same smell. There are a few ways to reduce the smell burden:

• Smell the lotion first. This may give you a clue but often the smell doesnt even appear until it reacts with your skin
• Mix with regular lotion with little number of ingredients. This will reduce the DHA concentration per square inch of skin and reduce the total smell burden.
• Apply the best self tanner at night before bed. This will allow you to sleep through the worse of the smell. When you wake up, shower.
• Use shower gel or deodorizing bar soap and exfoliate at your morning shower.
• For big events such as parties or weddings stop using the self tanner a day or two before the event to allow the smell to dissipate.

Best Self Tanner Difficulty # 3: Its expensive! Although some products can be expensive, the smart way to buy the best self tanner is in bulk! Sites like Amazon offers many bulk purchasing options that are not available in stores. They also have package deals that combine various products including best self tanner, enhancers, application mitts, application wands, airbrush kits, and self-tanner removal gel. To skip to the top 3 recommended products and Amazon purchasing options, scroll to the bottom of the page!

Best Self Tanner Difficulty #4: It doesn’t come off my hands! Many people complain that they have tell-tale orange hands after they apply self tanner. There are a few things you can do to prevent orange-palm:

• Exfoliate/Scrub/Wash hands thoroughly after application with either soap or body scrub.
• Use an application mitt. These are made of fabric and allow you to remove them after to quickly do your hands at the very end of the application process.
• Use a tanner removal gel. I recommend St Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Remover – 8 ounce bottle that lasts quite a while. This is available at amazon as well and it is the best self tanner through  my experience..
• Some people say that nail polish remover even works to remove excess self-tanner. Be sure to wash this off after you apply it though. 

Best Self Tanner Difficulty #5: It stains my clothes and sheets! To avoid staining clothing and linens, apply the self-tanner an hour or so before dressing. Personally, I have an old pair of long sleeved and pant pyjamas that I use solely after I apply the best self tanner. That way, I don’t really care if the inside gets stained and the length of the sleeves keep the smell contained within my old Pjs.

The Best Self Tanner – What to look for in the Best Self Tanner?

Type of Self Tanner: There are a few different types of self-tanners which have different consistencies and each have their own benefits.

• Tanning wipes/Towelettes: These are best for travelling or for small areas such as the face and neck in the winter when other body parts are not usually exposed.
• Lotions: These are the cheapest and most convenient to purchase. However, they are often harder to apply in areas like the back and buttocks which you cannot see. It also takes more time to dry and is more likely to stain.
• Mousse: These have a lighter consistency, spread more evenly and dry faster but tend to be more expensive. They feel really great and mostly have less smell than lotions.
• Aerosol Sprays: These use a fine mist of product and also allow to reach the back area more easily. The fine mist dries more quickly too.
• Gels: Gels are lightweight and result is less streaks and usually do not leave a sticky residue, however they can be more expensive.
• Airbrushes: Although this is usually done by professionals, these contraptions are sold separately from the spray itself and allow the user to reach harder to reach locations and get a more even application. They also sell “spray tents” which easily fold up and allow for you to spray indoors without dirtying up your room.
• Face Creams: These are lotions made specifically for the face and are often lighter in consistency and take into consideration other dermatological considerations such as oily skin and acne. These also tend to have lower DHA concentrations.

Ingredients: look for products that have other essential oils or sunscreen within them to add to your skins look and feel. Some best self tanners even have anti-aging properties.

Smell: As previously mentioned, all self-tanners have a smell. Try using lotions that have other smells to counter the DHA smell. Also, as previously mentioned, exfoliating, showering and using low concentrations help deal with smell and very good tip for you to find the best self tanner. 

Concentration of DHA: Products that emphasize a gradual pigment build are the best at preventing streaking and getting that even appearance. They also help reduce the smell. For an instant effect however, you will want to get a “Rapid” or “Concentrated” product which you should be extra careful when applying and use an application mitt to prevent orange-palm.

Skin tone matching: Products often will specify what skin tone they are for. Fair skinned individuals should not go for medium to dark products as they have a greater DHA concentration and will give more of an orangy appearance. Use a fair skin tone product and it’ll go a long way when using the best self tanner! 

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