10 Tanning Waters to Try For a Foolproof Glow

If you love the harmless glow self-tanners deliver but hate the streaky, sometimes-complicated application process, consider tanning waters. Tanning waters have taken the self-tanning industry by storm with their streamlined, foolproof approach.

With water and DHA (dihydroxyacetone) as its main ingredients, this revolutionary product gradually develops and absorbs quickly into the skin to reveal a natural-looking tan in just two easy steps. Before moisturizing the applied areas, be sure to exfoliate the skin for a smoother complexion. After prepping the skin, apply the tanning water from your head to your toes. Be sure to blend the formula with a tanning mitt for a streak-free application. When applying the water onto the face, apply the product directly onto a tanning mitt for a finer application in the harder-to-reach areas of the face. 

Here are the ten of the easiest tanning waters to achieve that sun-kissed glow this summer.

1 / 5

Best For Dry-Combination Skin

Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water ($32)

A must-have for your summer travel bag, this cult favorite features three different tanning shades. With vegan ingredients such as avocado oil, this tanning water absorbs into the skin instantly, revealing hydrated and bronzed skin without streaks or harsh odor. The formula also contains color-corrective active ingredients to ensure a natural-looking tan.

St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist ($30)

A miracle in a bottle, this unique, vegan formula features green mandarin water and hyaluronic acid to help boost hydration while developing a tanner complexion in just one application. The tropical-scented mist will give you that summer vacation vibe all year round.

2 / 5

Best For Sensitive Skin

Tan Luxe THE WATER Hydrating Self-Tan Water ($48)

Featuring a blend of vitamins B, C, and E and raspberry seed oil, this tanning water combats dull and uneven skin tones without clogging pores or drying the skin. The product is applied through a fine mist, resulting in a mess-free result. To glow even further, Tan Luxe’s tanning water can be applied over makeup for a radiant, glowy look.

Tanologist Self Tan Water ($20)

Tanologist’s Self Tan Water is one of the most popular products on the self-tan market today. Available in three buildable shades, each product brightens and softens the look of skin throughout the gradual tanning process. Pro tip: Store your Tanologist tanning water in the fridge for a refreshing application to combat the summer heat.

3 / 5

Best For All Skin Types

Whiind Ourika Sun Instant Glow Tinting Water ($35)

Hesitant to experiment with self-tanning products this summer over the fear of looking orange or streaky? Whiind’s tanning water can gradually match natural undertones by utilizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid for a long-lasting and hydrated bronze. One thing that sets this tanning water apart? Its main natural ingredient, eythrulose, a botanical alternative to DHA.

James Read’s Coconut Water Tan Body Mist ($33)

James Read’s Vegan tanning water body mist is the perfect product for that on-the-go glow while traveling this summer and beyond. This ultra-lightweight, fast-drying mist absorbs quickly, allowing you to dress just minutes after application, while the tan gradually develops within three to five hours.

Supergoop Healthy Glow Sunless Tan – Self Tanner with SPF ($38)

Supergoop’s take on the tanning water craze delivers a natural, buildable tan and features SPF 40+ to protect the skin after application. The lightweight spray develops within two to four hours and is water-resistant for up to eighty minutes. 

4 / 5

Best For Acne-Prone Skin

Typology Progressive Self-Tanning Serum ($25)

This French-based skin-care brand’s self-tanning serum is almost always sold out. With a combination of all-natural ingredients, the serum reacts with the amino acids present on the surface of the skin, resulting in a progressive, natural tan. Even better, its aesthetically pleasing packaging not only looks perfect in your beauty bag but is also sustainable.

5 / 5

Best For Aging Skin

By Terry Tea To Tan Face And Body ($88)

By Terry’s Tea To Tan Face and Body spray not only creates a warm bronze but also doubles as a skin-enhancing treatment. Its universal shade features Youth-Correcting Micro Prisms and tea-derived antioxidants to combat dull and uneven skin tones. The product is also easily buildable to customize the intensity of your sun-kissed glow.

Bali Body Face Tan Water ($30)

Bali Body’s Face Tan Water is a staple for your facial skin-care routine this summer. Enriched with anti-aging and vegan ingredients, this tanning water can be applied to the face and neck. It’s the perfect medium between skincare and self-tan.

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