Unless you’re jet-setting off to paradise, getting a nice, even tan from the sun’s rays in the wintertime is pretty much off the table — unless you’re willing to risk it all by using artificial UV. However, you don’t have to accept skin damage by using indoor tanning beds to keep your skin looking radiant this season because self tanners have come a long way. No more Oompa Loompa orange and streaks literally everywhere!
Now, you can get a nice colour that compliments your skin tone, moisturizes the body, and looks as natural as natural can be. To help you find your perfect match, we’ve sifted through reviewer favourites to find the best of the best.
Our top picks for the best self tanners in Canada:
The best self tanner for beginners:
Runner-up:
The best self tanner for value:
Runner-up:
The best self tanner for fair skin tones:
Runner-up:
The best self tanner for dark skin tones:
The best self tanner for sensitive skin:
Runner-up:
The best self tanner for face:
Runner-up:
How to Properly Choose Your Self Tanner
Application
Application varies depending on the product, with some more beginner-friendly than others. If you haven’t yet dove into the waters of self tanning, choosing a product with a foolproof application is your best bet. However, if you’ve been there and done that, the application process isn’t going to be much of an issue for you.
Formula Texture
Self tanners come in all types of textures, including lotions, sprays, mousses, mists, and drops. It’s up to you to decide what texture suits you best and will be easiest to work with to get the best and most natural-looking tan.
Scent
Do you want to smell like you just lounged at a tropical beach, or would you rather smell nothing as you apply your self tanner? Some self tanners have tropical scents, and others have very little fragrance, so it’s essential to consider what kind of sensory experience you want in your self tanner.
Messiness
Self tanning can get super messy and sometimes stain clothing or other fabrics. If you don’t mind dealing with that during application and while it develops, you can choose any type of self tanner, and it’ll be fine. However, if you do, there are a few that promise no staining and quick drying, so it’s easier to avoid them.
Appearance
Do you want your tan to look subtle, or do you want a deep, rich radiance? That’s arguably one of the most important aspects of sunless tanning, and you should choose your self tanner based on that. Your skin tone also comes into play here, too, so factor that in as well.