Here at
Aesthetic Enhancements, we constantly try to remind our patients that one of the “secrets” to aging gracefully involves staying OUT of the sun. That poses a bit of a dilemma for those of us that still enjoy the sun-kissed look - but not the wrinkles that are sure to follow!
In order to recommend safe options to achieve that “post vacation glow” to our patients and followers, our staff conducted our very own self tanner experiment. Each of our staff members tried 3 different tanning products and rated each one in 6 different categories: Scent, Evenness, Ease of Use, Streakiness and Color. Here is what we found:
Top 5 Self-Tanners:
#5 - Bella Bronze.
This tanner was featured as a top pick in New Beauty Magazine, so we thought we’d give it a try. It left a nice, subtle glow – we just couldn’t get pass the slight streaks it left behind. This would definitely not be a good choice prior to a date, as one reviewer compared the smell to that of a can of tuna!
Cost: $27
#4 - Clarins Gelee.
With one of the highest ratings for shade of color, this popular, high-end tanner will have you looking like a bronze goddess. Even though it may take a few applications to reach the desired shade, we found this product easy to use with minimal streaks. Sound too good to be true? It is…Our only warning is to beware of that lingering “self-tanner aroma” that just might make your lunch come up!
Cost: $34
#3 - Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess.
This tanner lends a nice subtle and even glow, without streaks and a smooth application. This product definitely has nice overall effect but leaves a slight aroma post application. We tanner was voted “most likely recommend it to a girlfriend”…especially one that lives far, far away!
Cost: $36
#2 – Jergens Natural Glow Express.
If you are looking for almost instantaneous color, try this! Stealing second place by delivering rapid results in as little as two applications, with minor streaking - this product is definitely a steal (and won’t break the bank)! Fair skinned girls beware though, this is best for those of us that aren’t so pasty (unless you are going for a striped tiger kind of look!).
Cost: $8
Which one was is #1 in our books? The best overall self-tanner was Neutrogena Micro Mist Spray, as it topped the charts due to the easy application process, even golden tan, barely-there scent and most importantly – No streaks!! You’ll have that ”Sunkissed - I was just found on a deserted, exotic island” kind of look after just a few sprays!
Cost: $9
Don’t be fooled into thinking that the most expensive self-tanners will deliver optimal results…As you can see, our experiment included products ranging from $7-$85. Amazingly enough, one of the lower priced self-tanners took first place!
TANNERS TO STEAR CLEAR OF:
There were a also few self-tanners that were part of our small experiment, but didn’t make the cut on our list of favorites, for more than one reason…
The Cellex-C tanner had the most favorable scent, but lowest score overall. For the money, you are probably better off eating a bag of carrots every day for that same tinge of color.
Cost: $85
L’Occitane delivered a pretty shimmer after a few applications. This tanner is very quick drying, but it does take a bit of patience to see the results. You could probably grow a rock garden in the time it would take you to see the results of this tanner!
Cost: $36
L’Oreal’s mist was a hit for its easy application, but did not deliver a very even OR streak-free tan. We recommend making sure you get the shade that best suits your skin tone. A fair person WILL end up looking like one of the Jackson 5 use a shade that is too dark!
Cost: $7
Remember, to exfoliate before trying out your self-tanner and be sure to wash your hands after application!
