Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
I’m self-admittedly aversed to being pale. There’s nothing wrong with pale skin, however my complexion looks (objectively) better during the summer months. My winter skin is dull and pale with occasional red spots and discoloration, issues that are easily fixed with a bronze hue. I simply love being tan!
To solve my winter blues, I apply self tanner every week. It’s a labor of (self) love given how time-intensive the process is, but it’s worth it. Being tan elevates my confidence tenfold! There are a bunch of self-tanning foams, mousses, mists, serums and sprays out there and despite having an impressive collection of all of the above, I usually opt for this self-tanning lotion. It’s been a staple in my cold-weather routine for years!
Made with natural and organic ingredients, this self-tanning lotion is hydrating, soothing and nourishing. It contains aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter and antioxidant-rich green tea, ingredients that work together to soften, even skin tone and brighten while they bronze.
The DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, also known as the ingredient that makes you glow) in this formula is derived from sugar beets, another checkmark in the clean beauty category! This lotion doesn’t contain any of the harmful dyes, additives, toxins, parabens, phthalates or other chemicals that fill most other self tanners, either, so consider your clothes and sheets blessed.
Aside from having a clean ingredient profile, this self tanner works — like, much better than most other formulas I’ve tried. Since it’s a lotion, the formula easy to apply, leaving no streaks, blotches or orange patches in the process. In just eight short hours, you’ll have a rich, Bali-looking glow! My tan looks so natural that people think I vacationed in the tropics; while I wish that was actually the case, I’ll take it . . . it’s better than people thinking I spent months in Antarctica!
To apply this self tanner, simply follow regular self-tanning protocol, exfoliating and shaving 24 hours before application and using a mitt to apply in circular motions. Let it sit for 15 minutes before dressing and you’re good to go! I apply it right before bed to wake up with a glow, but do whatever suits your schedule best. The lotion has a pleasant coconut scent that isn’t overpowering, so you could theoretically apply this lotion before work and let it develop throughout the day.
This lotion comes in two different shades. I always go for the medium to dark variety for a deep tan color, but if you have naturally fair skin, check out the light to medium one! The formula is on the pricey end, but it’s much cheaper than a ticket to the Bahamas.
Get the Beauty by Earth Self-Tanning Lotion for $36 (originally $42) on Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, November 6, 2024, but are subject to change.
Not what you’re looking for? Shop other self tanners on Amazon and don’t forget to shop Amazon’s deals here!
