Not all tanning lotions are created equal—and we’ve all had our fair share of streaks, smells, and orange disasters. That’s why this list is your new summer glow guide. Whether you’re a tanning rookie or a self-bronzing queen, these 10 top-rated tanning lotions deliver the results you want, with the price points and skin benefits you need.
☀️ Best Overall: Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam
Price: $41
Why it’s a fave: Delivers a flawless, streak-free tan with a tropical mango scent. Fast-drying and enriched with natural antioxidants for skin nourishment.
Perfect for: Those seeking a natural-looking tan with skincare benefits.
Shop now: Coco & Eve on Amazon
💸 Best Budget-Friendly: Jergens Natural Glow Firming Moisturizer
Price: $11
Why it’s a fave: Combines gradual tanning with firming agents to tighten skin. Ideal for daily use and beginners.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious individuals wanting a subtle, buildable tan.
Shop now: Jergens Natural Glow on Amazon
🧴 Best for Sensitive Skin: Tanologist Daily Glow Hydrating Gradual Tanning Lotion
Price: $13
Why it’s a fave: Formulated with vitamin C and niacinamide, this lotion hydrates while providing a gentle, gradual tan.
Perfect for: Sensitive skin types desiring a radiant glow without irritation.
Shop now: Tanologist on Amazon
🌴 Best for Outdoor Tanning: Maui Babe Browning Lotion
Price: $15
Why it’s a fave: Accelerates the sun-triggered tanning process using natural Hawaiian ingredients. Not a self-tanner, so sun exposure is required.
Perfect for: Sunbathers looking to deepen their natural tan quickly.
Shop now: Maui Babe on Amazon
🛏️ Best for Indoor Tanning: Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion
Price: $26
Why it’s a fave: Enhances melanin production without bronzers, leaving skin soft with a coconut fragrance.
Perfect for: Tanning bed users seeking a deep, natural-looking tan.
Shop now: Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses on Amazon
✨ Best Luxe Glow: Sol de Janeiro Glowmotions Glow Oil
Price: $30
Why it’s a fave: Provides an illuminating shimmer with a hydrating formula, perfect for highlighting tanned skin.
Perfect for: Those wanting a radiant finish over their tan for special occasions.
Shop now: Sol De Janeiro on Amazon
🍉 Best Gradual Tan: St. Tropez Gradual Tan Watermelon Daily Firming Lotion
Price: $20
Why it’s a fave: Offers a buildable tan with a refreshing watermelon scent, while firming and hydrating the skin.
Perfect for: Users preferring a subtle, everyday tan enhancement.
Shop now: St. Tropez on Amazon
🏖️ Best Express Tan: Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tanning Foam
Price: $29
Why it’s a fave: Develops in 1–3 hours without the need to rinse off, leaving a golden tan with a coconut scent.
Perfect for: Busy individuals needing a quick tan before events.
Shop now: Bondi Sands on Amazon
✈️ Best Travel-Friendly: L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Towelettes
Price: $11 (for a pack of 6)
Why it’s a fave: These single-use towelettes are your carry-on’s new best friend. Pre-soaked and perfectly portable, they deliver a smooth, streak-free tan without the mess.
Perfect for: Travelers who want to glow without packing a full bottle of lotion.
Shop now: L’Oréal Paris Towelettes on Amazon
🌞 Best Natural Ingredients: Australian Gold Accelerator Dark Tanning Lotion
Price: $9
Why it’s a fave: Infused with native Australian oils and vitamins A and E, it enhances natural pigmentation for a deep tan.
Perfect for: Those seeking a natural tan with skin-conditioning benefits.
Shop now: Australian Gold on Amazon
Xoxo, Srsly Rachel
Whether you’re new to tanning or a seasoned pro, these top picks cater to various needs—from budget-friendly options to luxurious glow enhancers. Remember to always patch-test new products and follow application instructions for the best results.
