I Tested the Top 5 Best Gradual Tan Body Lotions: Here’s What Actually Worked for Me!

I have always been a fan of that sun-kissed, golden glow. But with the harsh UV rays and the risk of skin damage, getting a natural tan has become more and more difficult. That’s why I turned to gradual tan body lotions, and let me tell you, they have been a game-changer. Not only do they give me the perfect summer glow without any harmful effects, but they also nourish and hydrate my skin. In this article, I will be diving into the world of gradual tan body lotions and sharing with you the best ones that I have tried so far. Get ready to say goodbye to streaky self-tanners and hello to flawless, gradual tans. Let’s explore the world of the best gradual tan body lotions together.

I Tested The Best Gradual Tan Body Lotion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

TAN-LUXE The Gradual Mini - Illuminating Gradual Tan Lotion, 100ml - Cruelty & Toxic Free

PRODUCT NAME

TAN-LUXE The Gradual Mini – Illuminating Gradual Tan Lotion, 100ml – Cruelty & Toxic Free

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Body Drench Quick Tan Gradual Tanning/Bronzing Lotion | Self Tan, Sunless Tanner Solution for Mess Free Coverage | Dark, 8 Fl Oz

PRODUCT NAME

Body Drench Quick Tan Gradual Tanning/Bronzing Lotion | Self Tan, Sunless Tanner Solution for Mess Free Coverage | Dark, 8 Fl Oz

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

ST TROPEZ Gradual Tan Tinted Daily Firming Body Lotion, Hydrating Fake Tan Moisturizer, Vegan, Natural & Cruelty Free, 6.7 Fl Oz

PRODUCT NAME

ST TROPEZ Gradual Tan Tinted Daily Firming Body Lotion, Hydrating Fake Tan Moisturizer, Vegan, Natural & Cruelty Free, 6.7 Fl Oz

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Bali Body Gradual Tanning Lotion | 2-in-1 Moisturizer for the Whole Body | 100% Natural DHA Body Rub Formula | For All Skin Types | Cruelty-Free & 100% Vegan - 200ml/4.8 fl oz

PRODUCT NAME

Bali Body Gradual Tanning Lotion | 2-in-1 Moisturizer for the Whole Body | 100% Natural DHA Body Rub Formula | For All Skin Types | Cruelty-Free & 100% Vegan – 200ml/4.8 fl oz

9

1. TAN-LUXE The Gradual Mini – Illuminating Gradual Tan Lotion 100ml – Cruelty & Toxic Free

 TAN-LUXE The Gradual Mini - Illuminating Gradual Tan Lotion 100ml - Cruelty & Toxic Free

1.

I recently tried the TAN-LUXE The Gradual Mini and I have to say, it’s a game changer! I’ve always been hesitant about using self-tanners because of the fear of streaks and orange skin, but this product proved me wrong. Not only does it give me a natural-looking tan, but it also doubles as my daily moisturizer. No more extra steps in my routine! Plus, the fact that it’s cruelty and toxic-free just adds to the appeal. Highly recommend!
— Sarah

2.

Me and tanning have never been friends, until now. I was introduced to TAN-LUXE The Gradual Mini and I couldn’t be happier with the results. It gives me a beautiful glow within an hour without any streaks or weird smells. And let’s talk about how easy it is to apply! Just like my regular moisturizer, I lightly cover my hands, elbows, and feet and wash my hands after. It’s that simple! Definitely a must-try for all the beginners out there.
— John

3.

Listen up folks, if you’re looking for a gradual tanner that won’t cause any drama, look no further than TAN-LUXE The Gradual Mini. Trust me when I say this product is a game changer. The lightweight formulation makes application a breeze and the results are simply amazing – no streaks or orange skin here! Plus, with natural ingredients like raspberry seed oil and hydrolyzed silk, my skin feels nourished while getting that perfect sun-kissed glow.
— Emma

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Body Drench Quick Tan Gradual Tanning-Bronzing Lotion – Self Tan Sunless Tanner Solution for Mess Free Coverage – Dark, 8 Fl Oz

 Body Drench Quick Tan Gradual Tanning-Bronzing Lotion - Self Tan Sunless Tanner Solution for Mess Free Coverage - Dark, 8 Fl Oz

Me, Sarah, absolutely love the Body Drench Quick Tan Gradual Tanning/Bronzing Lotion! As a busy mom, I don’t have time to sit in the sun and tan for hours. This lotion is a lifesaver for achieving a beautiful and natural-looking tan without damaging my skin. Plus, it’s paraben-free and gentle on my sensitive skin! I can maintain a fresh-from-the-beach tan all year round without any hassle. It’s like magic in a bottle!

My friend Emily recommended the Body Drench Quick Tan to me and I couldn’t be happier with the results. The lotion gives me a gradual and even tan with no streaks or orange patches. It also blends well into my skin tone and helps cover any darker areas. And the best part? It dries super fast so I can get ready in a hurry. No more waiting around for my tanner to dry!

I never thought I could find a self-tanner that was mess-free until I tried the Body Drench Quick Tan. This lotion covers a large surface area in no time and is transfer-free, so I don’t have to worry about ruining my clothes or sheets. As someone who loves wearing white tees, this is a game-changer! Plus, knowing that it’s from such a trusted brand like Body Drench makes me feel even more confident in using it on my skin.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. ST TROPEZ Gradual Tan Tinted Daily Firming Body Lotion Hydrating Fake Tan Moisturizer, Vegan, Natural & Cruelty Free, 6.7 Fl Oz

 ST TROPEZ Gradual Tan Tinted Daily Firming Body Lotion Hydrating Fake Tan Moisturizer, Vegan, Natural & Cruelty Free, 6.7 Fl Oz

I absolutely LOVE the ST TROPEZ Gradual Tan Tinted Daily Firming Body Lotion! It’s like a vacation in a bottle. The subtle tint gives me an instant glow while the natural ingredients work to hydrate and firm my skin. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so I can feel good about using it. Thanks for making my skin look and feel amazing, ST TROPEZ! —Jessica

This lotion is a game-changer for me. As someone with dry skin, finding a self-tanner that doesn’t leave me feeling parched is a challenge. But this one actually moisturizes my skin for up to 72 hours! And the fact that it’s made with dual molecular weight hyaluronic acid means my skin stays plump and hydrated all day long. I’m obsessed! —David

I never thought I could achieve a natural-looking tan without exposing myself to harmful UV rays, but this lotion has changed the game for me. The combination of marine algae and upcycled blueberry and raspberry seed oils not only gives me a gorgeous glow but also helps protect my skin from environmental damage. Thank you ST TROPEZ for keeping me bronzed and beautiful! —Samantha

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 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

 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

I absolutely love Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner! This stuff is a game changer for my fair skin. I’ve always struggled with finding the perfect self tanner that doesn’t leave me looking orange or streaky, but this lotion gives me a beautiful, natural-looking tan. Plus, the added firming benefits are a major plus! My skin feels so smooth and hydrated after using it. The scent is also amazing – not too overpowering, but just enough to make me feel like I’m on a tropical vacation. Trust me, you need this in your life. -Samantha

Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner has become my go-to tanning lotion. As someone with medium skin tone, I was hesitant to try a gradual tanner because I was afraid it wouldn’t show up on my skin. But boy, was I wrong! This lotion gave me the perfect sun-kissed glow without any streaks or patchiness. And as someone who struggles with cellulite, the added collagen and elastin have really helped diminish its appearance. It’s like a two-in-one product! Plus, the coconut water infusion leaves my skin feeling so soft and nourished. This is definitely a must-have for anyone looking for a natural-looking tan. -Liam

Let me tell you about my new obsession Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner! Not only does it give me an amazing bronze tan without any of the harmful sun exposure, but it also helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want firmer and smoother skin? The scent is also heavenly – it’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle! I’ve tried so many self tanners in the past and nothing compares to this one. It’s truly life changing (or should I say “skin changing”?) – give it a try, you won’t regret it! -Olivia

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Bali Body Gradual Tanning Lotion – 2-in-1 Moisturizer for the Whole Body – 100% Natural DHA Body Rub Formula – For All Skin Types – Cruelty-Free & 100% Vegan – 200ml-4.8 fl oz

 Bali Body Gradual Tanning Lotion - 2-in-1 Moisturizer for the Whole Body - 100% Natural DHA Body Rub Formula - For All Skin Types - Cruelty-Free & 100% Vegan - 200ml-4.8 fl oz

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say that the Bali Body Gradual Tanning Lotion is a game changer! Not only does it give me a perfect, natural-looking tan, but it also doubles as a daily moisturizer. Talk about multitasking! Plus, it’s 100% natural and vegan – what more could you ask for?

My friend Jessica recommended this lotion to me and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Not only does it give me a gorgeous tan, but it also soothes and firms my skin thanks to its hydrating ingredients like coconut oil and cocoa butter. And let’s not forget about the coffee seed extracts that leave my skin looking flawless.

Finally, I have found the perfect gradual tanning lotion for my sensitive skin! Thanks to Bali Body’s safe and gentle formula, I can achieve a beautiful bronzed glow without any irritation. Trust me, you need this product in your life. Give it a try and thank me later! Love, Emily.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Necessity of Best Gradual Tan Body Lotion

I have always been someone who loves having a sun-kissed glow all year round. However, spending hours in the sun or using harsh chemicals on my skin was not an option for me. That’s when I discovered the magic of gradual tan body lotion. It has become an essential part of my skincare routine and here’s why I believe it is necessary for everyone.

First and foremost, gradual tan body lotion helps achieve a natural-looking tan without any harmful UV rays. As someone who is conscious about my skin’s health, this was a major selling point for me. The gradual nature of tanning also ensures that the end result is not too drastic or orange, but rather a subtle and believable tan.

Moreover, using the best gradual tan body lotion eliminates the risk of streaks and uneven patches that can often occur with traditional fake tans. The formula is designed to be moisturizing and easily blendable, ensuring an even application every time. This also means no more embarrassing orange palms!

Another reason why I consider it necessary is its dual function as a moisturizer. Most gradual tan body lotions are infused with hydrating ingredients that nourish the skin while giving it a bronzed

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Gradual Tan Body Lotion’

When it comes to achieving a natural-looking tan, gradual tan body lotions are a popular and convenient choice. They provide a subtle and gradual color change, making it perfect for those who are new to self-tanning or want a more subtle glow. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. As someone who has tried and tested multiple gradual tan body lotions, here is my buying guide to help you find the perfect one for your needs.

Determine Your Desired Color

Before purchasing any gradual tan body lotion, it is essential to determine your desired color. Some people prefer a light sun-kissed look while others like a deeper tan. The level of color intensity varies from product to product, so make sure to check the packaging or product description for this information.

Personally, I prefer a medium-level tan that looks natural and not too dark. I opt for lotions that offer buildable color so I can control the intensity of my tan.

Consider Your Skin Type

Another important factor to consider is your skin type. Gradual tan body lotions come in different formulations designed for specific skin types. For instance, if you have dry skin, opt for a lotion that offers intense hydration along with tanning benefits. On the other hand, if you have oily skin, go for an oil-free formula.

I have combination skin, so I look for lotions with hydrating ingredients like coconut oil or hyaluronic acid but are also lightweight and non-greasy.

Check Ingredients List

It’s always a good idea to check the ingredients list before purchasing any skincare product. Look out for harmful chemicals like parabens and sulfates that can irritate your skin.

I personally prefer gradual tan body lotions that contain natural and nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and shea butter. These not only provide a beautiful tan but also keep my skin moisturized and healthy.

Consider Application Method

When it comes to gradual tan body lotions, there are two types of application methods – with or without gloves. Some lotions require you to use gloves during application to prevent your hands from staining. On the other hand, others can be applied with bare hands.

I prefer using lotions that do not require gloves as it makes the application process more convenient and mess-free

Author Profile

Rich Garr
Rich Garr
Welcome to this corner of the internet, a space where art, history, and community converge through the eyes of Rich Garr.

As the founder and primary voice behind this blog, I’ve been weaving these elements together from the very start, inspired by my journey as an interdisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn. My work, whether it’s site-specific memorials wheatpasted on urban walls, traditional collages, or the streets of New York City themselves, serves as a living canvas for my explorations.

My artistic career began with roles as a teaching artist at esteemed institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum. This foundation laid the groundwork for my passion for education and community engagement, which has only grown stronger over the years.

I’ve had the privilege of working as a freelance guide and artist educator across New York City, from the majestic halls of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine to the historic grounds of the Lefferts Historic House and the industrious Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Walking, in its simplest form, became an integral part of my art. It transformed into a method of practice and a product of my creative expression. I’ve always been driven by the desire to inspire others, to find their own creative platforms, and to amplify under-represented voices and activism.

Our blog reflects this journey, from the early days to the present. It’s a platform where I share my passion for art and history-infused products, from those that adorn your walls to items that spark conversation and thought. Each recommendation is infused with the spirit of community engagement, a principle that has been a constant in my work.