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If you are on the hunt for the best non toxic self tanner brands of 2024, we are happy to report that the eco market is beaming with options!
After all, our skin is the most absorbent organ, and we unwillingly put it to the test on a daily basis. Did you know that women apply an average of 168 chemicals every day? That’s insane!
So, let’s make sure that our skincare, lotions, and sunless tanning products are clean, healthy, and safe!
In this guide, we ranked the safest formulas to help you find the most natural self tanner for the face and body.
But to make the right choice, you first need to be informed about what’s lurking in most conventional opinions. So, let’s get into it.
The Safest Non-Toxic Self Tanner Brands in 2024
If you are someone like me, you probably want that post-vacation glow without damaging the DNA of your skin just to look pretty. I’ve been on this natural self-tanner grind for years now.
Ain’t nobody has time to bake under the scorching sun for hours, risking sunburns, premature aging, or, melanoma.
Unfortunately, about 100,640 new melanomas will be diagnosed in 2024 according to the American Cancer Society.
This is what causes most of the deaths from skin cancer. It’s not just sunbathing! People who have been using tanning base from a young age are at higher risk for melanoma as well.
With self-tanners, you slap on some lotion, mousse, or spray, and bam – instant tan without the UV damage. Plus, you can do it in the comfort of your own home.
What I love the most is that non toxic self tanner brands give you total control over your tan game.
Want to channel your inner J.Lo with a deep, bronzed glow? Go for it, boo! Prefer a subtle, sunkissed vibe for that “just got back from vacay” look? You do you.
Read on to find the absolute best clean self tanners according to dozens of natural skincare enthusiasts.
Are self tanners better for you than sun tanning?
Yes, even the most toxic self tanner products out there are healthier than sun tanning!
While self-tanning products come with their own set of risks, the dangers of sun exposure to achieve a tan are well-documented and even more alarming.
As we explained in detail in our non-toxic sunscreen guide, sun exposure is no joke! Sure, sunburns might be treated with after sun lotions and creams, but their side effects will remain forever!
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person’s chance of developing melanoma later in life.
UV radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and the development of cancerous cells.
Additionally, UV rays break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, causing wrinkles, sagging, and age spots.
What are the toxic ingredients in self tanners?
When we think of achieving that sun-kissed glow, many of us turn to self-tanning products as a safer alternative to sunbathing.
However, not all self-tanners are created equal, and some contain dangerous chemicals that can pose serious risks to our health.
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)
The most common active ingredient in self-tanners is DHA, a color additive that reacts with the amino acids on the skin’s surface to produce a browning effect.
While DHA is approved by the FDA for external use at a maximum concentration of 10%, studies suggest that inhaling DHA, such as through spray tans, can cause damage to cells and potentially lead to genetic alterations and cancer.
Additionally, DHA can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. So, it makes sense why pregnant women who breastfeed are advised against using sunless tanning products.
Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is a clear, odorless oil derived from petroleum. It’s commonly used in cosmetics because it’s a cheap carrier oil that provides a smooth application and helps other ingredients spread more easily.
But, it has some side effects. It creates a barrier on the skin’s surface, which can trap bacteria and other contaminants, leading to skin irritation and inflammation.
Because it is also known for clogging pores, mineral oil products can lead to acne and other skin issues. Most importantly, as a derivative of petroleum, mineral oil can contain impurities that are carcinogenic.
Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
This ingredient is a preservative that can be derived from glycine, an amino acid. It’s often touted as a “natural” preservative and is used to prolong the shelf life of cosmetics and personal care products.
However, it can cause an array of issues, especially for folks with sensitive skin. During its production, formaldehyde can be added, and the preservative itself can break down into formaldehyde over time. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause allergic reactions and other health issues.
Amyl Acetate
Amyl acetate is another common ingredient in self tanner products. More precisely, it’s an organic compound used as a solvent.
It’s known for its banana-like smell and is commonly used in the dry-cleaning industry. Unsurprisingly, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions because of its strong solvent properties, which can be too harsh for the skin.
Octyl Stearate
Octyl stearate is an ester of octyl alcohol and stearic acid. It’s used in cosmetics for its lubricating properties, which help to soften and smooth the skin.
But, it can also clog pores, leading to blackheads and acne breakouts for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Isopropyl Myristate
Many self-tanner products contain isopropyl myristate – a commonly used ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid that improves texture and absorption.
Similar to other esters, isopropyl myristate can clog pores and contribute to acne and other skin issues. Also, it can bind with nitrates in the body, which are known carcinogens.
The Safest Natural Self Tanner Ingredient Alternatives
Natural Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)
Natural dihydroxyacetone (DHA), derived from sources like sugar beets or sugar cane, offers a safer option for tanning. Unlike its synthetic counterpart, natural DHA is free from harmful chemicals and additives. It gives a realistic tan that fades evenly, to get that a sun-kissed look without sun exposure.
Erythrulose
Erythrulose, derived from red raspberries, works similarly to DHA but is gentler on the skin, giving a smoother, more even tan that lasts longer. It’s also a very hydrating ingredient that works wonders on dry skin.
Coconut Oil
Most of the non toxic self tanner brands on the market use coconut oil, known for its moisturizing properties. It helps keep the skin soft and supple, essential for maintaining an even tan. Coconut oil also serves as a natural carrier for other tanning ingredients for a smooth, mess-free application.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, with its soothing and hydrating properties, can reduce any irritation or redness associated with self-tanning, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Plus, because it offers hydration without clogging pores, clean self tanners with aloe vera extracts are suitable for all skin types.
Here are some additional safe ingredients:
- Green Tea Extract – Rich in antioxidants, protects the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors while soothing and calming any inflammation.
- Jojoba Oil – Non-comedogenic and balancing, helps prevent dryness and excessive oiliness, ensuring your tan looks even and radiant.
- Shea Butter – Deeply hydrating and nourishing, softens the skin and enhances the appearance of your tan, leaving it smooth and supple.
What type of non toxic self tanner is the best for you?
To choose the right safest self tanner, you first need to understand the different types and what they can offer.
Self Tanner Moose Foam
Self-tanning mousses are lightweight foams that contain DHA or other tanning agents. They dry rapidly upon application, so you can get dressed and go about your day without waiting for the product to dry.
The airy texture of mousses makes them easy to spread evenly across the skin, reducing the risk of streaks and blotches.
So, if you’re looking for a fuss-free application and want a tan that develops quickly, a self-tanning mousse is a fantastic option.
Natural Self Tanner Lotion
Self-tanning lotions are the most traditional form of self-tanner. They are moisturizing creams infused with DHA or other tanning agents that gradually darken the skin over several hours.
We love them because many natural self-tanning lotions contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil that leave the skin feeling soft and hydrated.
With a lotion, you have more control over the amount of product you apply, allowing you to customize your tan to your desired level of darkness.
Also, they provide a longer-lasting tan compared to other forms of self-tanners, and thus, they are ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance option.
Self Tanner Spray
Self-tanning sprays come in aerosol cans or pump bottles and are designed for easy and precise application. They can be sprayed directly onto the skin or applied using a mitt for more controlled coverage.
With a spray, you can cover large areas of the body quickly which helps save a lot of time. The only drawback is that the result might not last as long as other methods.
12 Safest Non Toxic Self Tanner Brands:
1. Beauty By Earth
The entire sustainable skincare community is head over heels in love with the Beauty By Earth self tanner and for a good reason.
The company aims to give us the perfect tan and absolutely no side effects with an array of safe self tanner body lotions, mousses, mists, and sprays.
You’ll find many nutrient-rich hydrating formulas and application tools to make the entire process a breeze.
Instead of harmful chemicals, Beauty By Earth uses plant-based ingredients like witch hazel, coconut oil, vitamin A, rich cranberries, shea butter, and aloe vera.
The result? A pregnancy-safe, non-toxic self tanner THAT goes on so smoothly and offers great results.
All you have to do is pick a color from fair to dark and watch your skin get glowy and summer-ready.
Price: From $34.99 for the “Self Tanner Body Lotion”
Main Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone (sugar-beet derived) | Coconut oil | Witch hazel | Shea butter & more!
Ethics: Leaping Bunny Certified, plastic neutral, female-founded, dermatologically tested, vegan, made in the USA,
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Our Favorites from Beauty By Earth:
2. Lux Unfiltered
Known as one of the best natural self tanner brands of 2024, Lux Unfiltered offers hydrating self-tanning creams, mousses, and bronzing face drops.
Who needs hours under the sun when you can have the same natural-looking glow and color?
The N°32 lotion formula is infused with shea butter, cocoa butter, squalane, avocado oil, and passion fruit oil.
You won’t have to deal with any build-up, or sticky residue. Just let the vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, sulfate-free, and paraben-free do the clean job for you.
If you’re more into non-toxic self tanner foams, grab the N°36 mouse. It boasts sunflower extract, jojoba seed extract, papaya extract, cocoa seed extract, and hyaluronic acid for a European-esque tan that lasts for days.
As for the bronzing face drops, they will give you a customizable, buildable tan that solely depends on the amount of drops you’ll want to use.
Price: From $36+ for the “Hydrating Self-Tanning Cream”
Main Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone | Aqua | Avocado oil | Cocoa seed butter | Shea butter | Passion fruit edulis seed oil | Soybean oil & more!
Ethics: Non-toxic, cruelty-free, vegan
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada, United Kingdom & Australia
Our Favorites from Lux Unfiltered:
3. Isle Of Paradise
It’s no secret that Isle of Paradise will formulate some of the best non-toxic self-tanners in 2024.
But how? What makes them so coveted? The vegan and cruelty-free skincare-first ingredients, the customization and control they offer, and, the natural bronze color you’ll get to enjoy.
The lineup includes a liquid bronzing serum, infused with niacinamide, squalane, and jojoba oil, for an instant dewy, bronzed complexion.
You’ll also find a highly-reviewed express 30-minute non-toxic self-tanner foam that’s packed with body-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic hydration, glycerin, and vitamin C.
And, my personal favorite – self-tanning face and body drops!
These drops develop in 4–6 hours, minimizing the look of redness and hyperpigmentation for an even-looking skin tone that lasts for 5 days. How amazing is that?
Price: From $32+ for the “Express 30-min Mousse”
Main Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone | Aqua | Chia seed oil | Avocado oil | Sage oil | Peppermint oil | Coconut oil & more!
Ethics: Ethical ingredients, 100% cruelty-free & vegan, 100% post-consumer recycled paper packaging, 81% plastic is saved through eco-refills
Location/Shipping: United States
Our favorites from Isle Of Paradise:
4. Coola
Coola’s organic self tanner lotions are expertly formulated to help you achieve a natural-looking tan while visibly toning and tightening the skin.
Hey, you can thank the green natural caffeine and pea extract for that.
The lotions contain alaria esculenta which is known for improving skin elasticity while instantly boosting skin’s moisture.
Coola’s lineup also extends to sunless tan aluminizing body serums for the face and body that grant us shimmery, sun-kissed radiance while developing a buildable, natural-looking tan over time.
No chemicals there either – just sugar-beet-derived DHA!
I am obsessed with this streak-free and transfer-resistant formula because it is Ecocert® Cosmos Organic Certified as well as vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free.
Plus, because the ingredients are 99% natural, this can be the safest self tanner while breastfeeding and during your pregnancy.
Our Favorites from Coola:
Price: From $48+ for the “Sunless Tan Firming Lotion”
Main Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone (sugar cane derived) | Aqua | Safflower seed oil | Shea Butter | Pea Extract | Lavender flower extract | Jojoba seed oil & more!
Ethics: Certified organic ingredients, cruelty-free, vegan
Location/Shipping: United States
5. WHISH
If you are looking for the best non toxic self tanner brands that use natural firming ingredients to keep your skin soft and radiant, WHISH is for you.
The collection includes multiple clean self tanners with botanical ingredients such as kigelia African fruit, seaweed extract, coffee arabica extract, shea butter, mango butter, aloe, and pomegranate extract.
If you want to go all in, I’d suggest opting for the super tanner with bakuchiol.
Granted, it’s not cheap, but the proven benefits of bakuchiol and the incredible clean retinol replacement, make up for that.
You’ll get glowing coverage and reduce the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles at the same time. No toxic chemicals, just natural feel-good self-care essentials.
Price: From $34+ for the “Self Tanning Lotion”
Main Ingredients: Kigelia African fruit | Seaweed extract | Coffee arabica extract | Shea butter | Mango butter | Aloe | Goji berry | Soap bark extract | Pomegranate extract & More!
Ethics: Leaping Bunny Certified, made with botanically sourced ingredients, free from harmful chemicals
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada & Mexico
6. Botanic Tree
The least toxic self-tanner by Botanic Tree is specifically formulated to not only give you a natural bronze glow but also moisturize and plump the skin.
While most conventional tanners leave behind an oily feel and, in some cases, a horrendous orange tint after the application, this safe self-tanning lotion is different.
No matter your skin tone, you’ll get to take advantage of some fantastic plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, coconut oil, and sugar cane.
You’ll absolutely love your plant-powered natural-looking fake tan, I’m telling you!
Plus, this natural self-tanner is USA-made, vegan, and cruelty-free.
Price: $26.90
Main Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone (sugar cane derived) | Aloe vera | Shea butter | Coconut oil | Jojoba seed oil | Rosemary leaf oil & more!
Ethics: Natural ingredients, cruelty-free, vegan, made in the USA
Location/Shipping: United States
7. Vita Liberata UK
Granted, finding truly organic self-tanner products is no easy feat.
Luckily, there is Vita Liberata and their high-performing non-toxic self-tanners for face and body treatment.
The face-tanning moisturizer with hyaluronic acid is arguably their bestseller.
It’s infused with 100% natural DHA, organic aloe vera, organic glycerin to help maintain moisture levels, and organic pomegranate fruit extract.
Not a fan of lotions? How about a lightweight and quick-drying mousse?
Pick the desired color and let the moose create a radiant bronzed tan result that will last 4-7 days, before fading evenly.
Additionally, similar to WHISH, Vita Liberata also developed a Bakuchiol-based formula – but this time, it’s a serum that offers a customizable tan with anti-aging benefits.
No matter your preferences, rest assured that all safest self-tanner products are vegan.
Price: From £16 for the “Gradual Tanning Lotion”
Main Ingredients: 100% natural DHA | Shea butter | Aloe vera | Marula seed oil | Licorice root extract | Witch hazel | Papaya fruit extract & more!
Ethics: Organic & natural ingredients, 50% of net sales goes towards supporting The British Skin Foundation
Location/Shipping: United Kingdom, ships to Europe
8. The Organic Pharmacy UK
The Organic Pharmacy might not be classified as one of the best natural self-tanner brands because they specialize in many different skincare products, but they do offer some amazing options.
The Organic Pharmacy combined DHA sourced from sugar beet, shea butter jojoba oil, and other 80% ORGANIC ingredients to create a 100% natural, clean, and toxin-free self-tanner.
DHA is a fantastic self-tanning agent that interacts safely with the upper layer of the epidermis and develops in just 3 hours.
It’s suitable for all skin types – even sensitive ones– and can be used on the face and body.
Price: $69
Main Ingredients: DHA from organic sugar beet | Shea butter | Jojoba oil | Coconut oil | Sesame seed oil | Shea butter | Sunflower seed oil & more!
Ethics: 80% organic ingredients, natural, clean & toxin free ingredients, clinically proven
Location/Shipping: United Kingdom, ships worldwide
9. Eco Tan AUD
The clean skincare brand Eco Tan specializes in organic self-tanner products that multitask.
The face tan water, for example, clears blemishes and reduces the appearance of redness while delivering a healthy golden glow.
The cacao tanning mousse promises to give you a luxuriously deep, earthy bronze tone, with no stickiness with the help of cacao, blood orange, and grapefruit extracts.
But if I had to pick my absolute favorite products from the lineup, they would be the bronze organic spray and the invisible tan.
According to dozens of reviews, the spray delivers the perfect deep tan that lasts for up to days in just 2 hours!
As for the tanning lotion, you can expect an easy-to-apply buttery cream product that actually hydrates your skin for a healthy and glowing complexion!
To top it all off, all non-toxic self-tanners are certified organic, vegan, cruelty-free, certified toxic-free, and made in Australia!
Price: From $27.95 for the “Cacao Tanning Mousse”
Main Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone (sugar cane derived) | Organic aloe vera | Glycerin | Heptyl glucoside | Organic hemp | Coco powder & more!
Ethics: PETA Vegan Approved, Certified Organic, Certified Toxic Free, cruelty-free, vegan, Australian-made, gives back
Location/Shipping: Australia, ships worldwide
10. Kora Organics
We couldn’t create a “best natural self tanner brands” roundup without mentioning Kora Organics.
This ultra-hydrating body moisturizer is suitable for all skin tones.
What I love the most about it is that Kora uses top-tier, certified organic ingredients including a blend of noni fruit extract, rosehip, avocado, and sea buckthorn oil.
So, it’s not just about getting a naturally-looking bronzed complexion.
The brand wants to treat us with vitamins and minerals that lock in moisture and repair the appearance of damaged skin all while looking like we’ve just returned from a 1-month long vacation abroad.
Price: Out of stock
Main Ingredients: Dihydroxyacetone | Sunflower seed oil | Noni fruit extract | Coconut oil | Green Tea | Rosehip | Argan oil | Lavender oil & more!
Ethics: Certified organic, cruelty-free, vegan
Location/Shipping: Worldwide
This was your full guide to the safest, best nontoxic self tanner brands in 2024!
We hope this guide helped you find the best non-toxic self-tanner brands for a healthy glow.
Whether you prefer a safe self-tanning lotion, a moose, or a natural spray, there’s something for everyone. These formulas can offer everything from a deep, bronzed vibe to a subtle, sunkissed glow in your perfect shade.
What’s more, because they are packed with nourishing goodies like coconut oil, aloe vera, and green tea extract, natural self-tanners not only give you a gorgeous tan but also leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and oh-so-smooth.
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