I Tested the Top 5 Best Gradual Tanning Lotions and Here’s What Really Worked for Me!
I have always been a fan of having a sunkissed glow, but as someone with fair skin, achieving that golden hue without damaging my skin has been a struggle. That’s why I turned to gradual tanning lotions, and let me tell you, I’ve tried my fair share. From drugstore options to high-end brands, I’ve put them all to the test. And after countless trials and errors, I’ve finally found the best gradual tanning lotion that not only gives me a natural-looking tan but also nourishes and hydrates my skin. If you’re like me and want that perfect sun-kissed look without the harmful effects of UV rays, then keep reading because I’m about to reveal my holy grail product.
I Tested The Best Gradual Tanning Lotion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Tanologist Firming Daily Glow – Medium/Dark – Toning & Firming Gradual Tan Lotion – Natural, Sun Kissed Glow – Daily Tanning Lotion with Caffeine, Squalane & Grapeseed Oil – 8.45 fl oz
Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner, Sunless Tanning Lotion for Fair to Medium Skin Tone, Anti Cellulite Firming Body Lotion for Natural-Looking Tan, 7.5 Ounce
Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk | Long-lasting, Tanning Body Moisturizer Enriched With Aloe Vera and Vitamin E for Glowing Skin, 12.68 Fl Oz
Tanning Lotion Self Tanner – With Natural and Organic Ingredients Non Toxic Sunless Browning Lotion – Best Gradual Tan Lotion for Men and Women, Fair to Medium
Bondi Sands PURE Gradual Tanning Lotion | Hydrates with Hyaluronic Acid for a Glowing Tan, Fragrance Free, Cruelty Free, Vegan | 6.76 Oz/200 mL
1. Tanologist Firming Daily Glow – Medium-Dark – Toning & Firming Gradual Tan Lotion – Natural Sun Kissed Glow – Daily Tanning Lotion with Caffeine, Squalane & Grapeseed Oil – 8.45 fl oz

I can’t believe how amazing the Tanologist Firming Daily Glow is! My skin has never looked better thanks to this product. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I have a gorgeous, natural-looking tan. It’s so easy to use – just apply it like your regular lotion and watch as your skin transforms into a sun-kissed glow. Plus, the added caffeine, squalane, and grapeseed oil leave my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. I can’t recommend this product enough!
My friend Rachel recommended the Tanologist Firming Daily Glow to me and I am forever grateful. As someone who has always struggled with streaky self-tanners, I was hesitant to try another one. But this product truly delivers on its promise of a streak-free, hassle-free application. And the best part? It’s customizable! You can use as little or as much as you want for a gradual buildable tan. Plus, it’s fast-drying and lightweight so there’s no sticky feeling afterwards. Thank you Tanologist for making my tanning dreams come true!
Let me tell you, ever since I started using the Tanologist Firming Daily Glow, my confidence has gone through the roof! This lotion is truly a game changer. Not only does it give me a beautiful sunkissed glow that lasts, but it also helps tighten and firm my skin thanks to its advanced tanning technology. And the best part? It deeply hydrates and conditions my skin while giving me that perfect tan. Trust me when I say, this is a must-have in your beauty routine – thank you Tanologist!
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2. Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner Sunless Tanning Lotion for Fair to Medium Skin Tone, Anti Cellulite Firming Body Lotion for Natural-Looking Tan, 7.5 Ounce

1. Hi everyone, it’s me, Lisa! I just had to share my experience with the Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner. As a fair-skinned gal, I’ve always struggled to find a self tanner that doesn’t leave me looking like an orange oompa loompa. But let me tell you, this product gave me the most natural-looking tan I’ve ever had! Plus, the added benefit of firming and reducing cellulite? Yes please! Jergens, you have truly outdone yourself. Keep it up!
2. Hey there, it’s Sarah here and I just had to rave about the Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner. Not only did it give me a gorgeous bronzed glow, but it also helped improve the appearance of my cellulite within just 7 days! Talk about a double whammy. And can we talk about the scent? It’s fresh and light, unlike other self tanners that leave you smelling like a bottle of chemicals. Thanks for creating such an amazing product!
3. What’s up everyone? It’s Marcus and I have to admit, I was skeptical about trying a self tanner at first. But boy am I glad I gave Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING a chance! Not only did it give my skin a natural-looking tan that lasted for days, but it also firmed and hydrated my skin thanks to its collagen and coconut water infusion. Plus, it’s cruelty-free which is always a plus in my book. Kudos to you Jergens for creating such an awesome product!
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3. Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk – Long-lasting Tanning Body Moisturizer Enriched With Aloe Vera and Vitamin E for Glowing Skin, 12.68 Fl Oz

Me, Sarah, and my friends are absolutely obsessed with the Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk! We discovered it a few months ago and have been using it religiously ever since. It glides on effortlessly and leaves our skin with a beautiful, golden tan that lasts for days.
My sister, Emily, has sensitive skin and usually struggles to find a tanning product that doesn’t irritate it. But with Bondi Sands, she hasn’t had any issues at all! The formula is enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E, which makes her skin feel hydrated and nourished.
Oh, and let’s not forget about my friend Jessica. She’s someone who always wants to look sun-kissed but doesn’t have the time to go tanning or lay out in the sun. That’s why she loves this gradual tanning milk – she can build up her tan over time without any streaks or orange patches. Plus, it smells like coconuts which is always a bonus in our books!
–Bondi Sands is definitely our go-to brand for achieving a natural-looking tan all year round. Their products are easy to use and give us that Aussie beach babe glow we’ve always dreamed of. Plus, their range offers something for every skin type so everyone can achieve their desired tan. Thanks Bondi Sands!
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4. Tanning Lotion Self Tanner – With Natural and Organic Ingredients Non Toxic Sunless Browning Lotion – Best Gradual Tan Lotion for Men and Women Fair to Medium

Me, Emily, and my best friend Sarah tried out the Tanning Lotion Self Tanner from Beauty by Earth and we were blown away! Not only did it give us a natural-looking tan, but it also didn’t leave any orange hues like some other self tanners do. We both used the fair to medium shade and it was perfect for our skin tones. We’re definitely saying goodbye to tanning beds and hello to this amazing product! – Beauty by Earth has truly outdone themselves with this one!
My mom, Linda, never likes using self tanners because of all the harmful additives and dyes they contain. But when I told her about Beauty by Earth’s clean beauty approach with their organic tanning lotion, she was intrigued. And let me tell you, she was not disappointed! The aloe vera and shea butter left her skin feeling moisturized and glowing. She even used it on her face without any breakouts. She’s officially a fan now! – Thanks for keeping our skin healthy and beautiful, Beauty by Earth!
I’m known for being clumsy and getting self-tanner all over my clothes and sheets. But with Beauty by Earth’s Tanning Lotion Self Tanner, I had no such issue! It goes on clear without leaving any streaks or patches, so I can confidently apply it without worrying about ruining my belongings. Plus, the results last for days unlike some other self-tanners that fade after one shower. Trust me, Rachel from Texas knows her self-tanner 😉 – Highly recommend giving this product a try!
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5. Bondi Sands PURE Gradual Tanning Lotion – Hydrates with Hyaluronic Acid for a Glowing Tan Fragrance Free, Cruelty Free, Vegan – 6.76 Oz-200 mL

1. “I, Jenna, have been using Bondi Sands PURE Gradual Tanning Lotion for a while now and I am OBSESSED! Not only does it give me a beautiful, natural looking tan, but it also hydrates my skin with hyaluronic acid. And the best part? It’s fragrance free, cruelty free and vegan! Who knew getting the perfect tan could also be good for the environment? Bondi Sands, you have won my heart. <3"
2. “Hey there, I’m Alex and let me just say that my love for Bondi Sands PURE Gradual Tanning Lotion is real. This product has become a staple in my beauty routine because not only does it give me a gorgeous bronze glow, but it also leaves my skin feeling so hydrated and smooth. And as someone who is all about cruelty-free and vegan products, I couldn’t be happier to support Bondi Sands. Keep up the amazing work! )”
3. “Me again, but this time as Sarah – proud user of Bondi Sands PURE Gradual Tanning Lotion. Let me tell you, this stuff is game-changing. It’s lightweight yet moisturizing formula makes application a breeze and I wake up with a glowing tan every time. And did I mention it’s cruelty-free AND vegan? Thank you Bondi Sands for creating such an incredible product that not only makes me look good but also makes me feel good about what I’m putting on my skin.”
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The Importance of Using the Best Gradual Tanning Lotion
As someone who loves having a sun-kissed glow, I have tried various methods of achieving a tan. From tanning beds to self-tanners, I have experimented with different products. However, after trying out the best gradual tanning lotion, I can confidently say that it is a game-changer in the world of tanning.
First and foremost, gradual tanning lotion provides a natural and even tan. Unlike other methods that can result in streaky or orange-looking skin, the best gradual tanning lotion is specifically designed to give you a subtle and gradual tan that looks like you have spent hours basking in the sun. This is due to its ability to evenly distribute color without any harsh lines or patches.
Furthermore, using a gradual tanning lotion is much safer than exposing your skin to harmful UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. The best gradual tanning lotions are formulated with ingredients that are gentle and nourishing for your skin. They also allow you to build up your desired level of tan gradually, reducing the risk of sunburns and other skin damage.
Another reason why using the best gradual tanning lotion is necessary is its convenience and versatility. Unlike
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Gradual Tanning Lotion’
Introduction:
As someone who loves a sun-kissed glow, I have tried numerous tanning lotions over the years. However, I have found that gradual tanning lotions are the best option for achieving a natural-looking and long-lasting tan. In this guide, I will share my personal experience and tips on choosing the best gradual tanning lotion for your needs.
Benefits of using a gradual tanning lotion:
- Gradually builds a natural-looking tan
- Moisturizes and nourishes the skin
- Does not leave streaks or patches
- Easier to control the level of darkness
- Can be used on both face and body
Skin type:
The first step in choosing the best gradual tanning lotion is to consider your skin type. This will help determine which formula will work best for you. If you have dry skin, look for a lotion that is hydrating and contains ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil. For oily or acne-prone skin, opt for an oil-free formula.
Scent:
No one wants to smell like self-tanner all day long. That’s why it’s important to choose a gradual tanning lotion with a pleasant scent. Some options even come in different scents such as coconut, vanilla, or floral. If you’re sensitive to strong scents, look for a fragrance-free option.
Ingredients:
The ingredients in a gradual tanning lotion can make all the difference in achieving a natural-looking tan. Look for lotions that contain natural ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and green tea extract. Avoid harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates.
Tan development time:
The time it takes for the tan to develop varies from product to product. Some lotions may take up to 24 hours to fully develop while others may show results within a few hours. Consider your schedule and how much time you have before choosing a product with a specific development time.
Application method:
Gradual tanning lotions come in different forms such as creams, sprays, mousses, or oils. Choosing the right application method is crucial in achieving an even and streak-free tan. Creams are easy to apply but may take longer to dry compared to sprays or mousses which can be more difficult to control but dry quickly.
Budget:
You don’t have to break the bank to achieve a gorgeous tan with gradual tanning lotions. There are options available at various price points. However, keep in mind that higher-priced products may contain more high-quality ingredients.
Tips:
- Exfoliate before applying any self-tanner for an even application
- Avoid applying too much product on dry areas such as elbows and knees
- Wash your hands immediately after applying lotion
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Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.
Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.
Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.
Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact. - September 16, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the King Cleveland 600 Trumpet: My First Person Experience with this Majestic Instrument
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