Your self-tanning routine is about to get better.
Let’s talk DHA. Practically every self-tanner has a colouring agent called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This ingredient reacts with the amino acids on the surface of your skin, staining them to create a temporary darkened skin tone. There are two types of DHA: natural and synthetic. While synthetic is generally approved for use, chemicals are still chemicals. If we can get the option to feed our skin natural ingredients, we jump at the chance.
Since you’re reading this right now, we are assuming that you value cruelty and toxin-free beauty products — self-tanners included. That’s why we’re sharing our top 10 list of self-tanners with naturally-derived DHA for a safe and healthy glow.
Price: $34.95
The Bondi Bodz Tanning Mousses are perfect for self-tanners ranging from beginner to been-tanning-all-my-life. The product pumps out foam, making it easy to build a streak-free, even tan from head-to-toe. Made from naturally-derived DHA, the formula boasts of naturally hydrating ingredients that will leave your skin even better than before.
Our favourite reason for turning to Bondi Bodz: we get the same quality glow without the damages from being under the sun.
2. Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam
Price: $35
A trusted one in the self-tanning circle, Coco & Eve’s self-tanner formula boasts of 100% naturally-derived DHA. Not only that, it is also silicone, paraben, and gluten-free. The formula also includes Mandarin oils and Coconut which creates a nourishing, non-sticky, lightweight product that gives you a glow in as little as two hours.
3. Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Face Serum
Price: $54
For lovers of gradual tanners for the face, the Coola face serum is a great choice. Made from organic and natural ingredients such as grape seed oil, argan oil, and beet-derived DHA, this gradual tanner builds up over seven days while keeping your skin hydrated and supple. Just add two to three pumps into you moisturiser of choice and you’re on your way to a glowing face tan.
4. Kora Organics Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion
Price: $48
A favourite for instant tan newbies that are still too scared to take the leap. If you’d rather go for a tanning lotion that builds up slowly and is highly customizable, the Kora Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion is a great option. Just apply onto your clean, dry, and exfoliated body using upward motions, wash your hands thoroughly after, and your glow is set to go. Kora uses sugar-derived DHA mixed with organic oils like sunflower seed, rosehip, and coconut to keep your skin hydrated.
5. Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Drops
Price: $32
For the religious tanning drops users, the Isle of Paradise will keep you obsessed. Formulated to create a customizable tan with very little chance of messing up, this bottle of goodness is worth adding to your roster of favourite tanning oils. Mix it with your usual tanning moisturiser (check the ingredients to make sure nothing will cancel each other out), apply, and sit back. Isle of Paradise uses avocado and coconut oils among other goodies to keep your skin fully soft and smooth.
6. Suntegrity Skincare Natural Self Tanner
Price: $36
A quick run through the ingredients list will show you that Suntegrity really keeps its integrity. There are no toxic or harsh chemicals, only eco-certified good stuff. This formula is made from sugar beet-derived DHA mixed with organic oils and butters (coconut, mango seed, shea, sweet almond, and more). Don’t forget to exfoliate dry areas to get the maximum effect of this product.
7. Josie Maran Argan Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Oil
Price: $39
There are tons of great self-tanners in the market with one drawback: they don’t smell very nice. This Josie Maran liquid gold, however, smells amazing. This formula contains natural DHA, hydrating argan oil, all blended together with the most amazing vanilla apricot scent. It also uses aloe and coconut water to keep your skin nourished while your fake tan stays on point.
8. Vita Liberata Advanced Organics Invisi Foaming Tan Water
Price: $40
One thing every self-tanner is afraid of is product transferring to their sheets or clothes. The Vita Liberata Invisi Foaming Tan Water is formulated to stay on while you get your best fake tan to date. This organic product dries off quickly and feels light and non-sticky.
9. Beauty by Earth Self Tanner
Price: $31
Another cult favourite is this little potion by Beauty by Earth. Their self-tanner is buildable, lightweight, and full off hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter. The colour develops into a nice natural glow that lasts for days. Just use the product with a tanning mitt to prevent streaks on your palms.
10. St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist
Price: $30
If you don’t have a skincare routine down just yet, this self-tanner is your easiest bet to get glowing. Jut spritz the St. Tropez Bronzing Face Mist under or over your makeup and watch it develop into a beautiful glow in four to eight hours. Our favourite part: its DHA is also naturally derived and the product is completely cruelty-free.