The Best Self Tanners

Now that the end of April is quickly approaching (um, what?), the time to be nice and bronzed is creeping on up on us. However, I may not be able to participate in being as bronzed as I'd like to, as I have throughout past years. This past year, I gave up tanning in tanning beds.

My pledge originally began as a promise to my worrisome boyfriend, but I’ve since been thankful that he asked me to stop. I feel a lot more at ease about my health, and plan on sticking to my promise.

However, there is one down side to his request; I’m completely pale, and completely upset about it. I’m dreading stepping foot on a beach in a bikini for the first time being so pale, so I’ve been going through the process of researching the best self tanners, to kind of soften the blow.

I’ve come across a few that work extremely well, and I’m happy to share them all with you:

Bliss A Tan for All Seasons ($36) Avoid any awkward streaks with Bliss’ advanced, sunless tanner spray. It’s packed with aloe vera, antioxidants and a transfer-resistant bronzer. We also treasure this spray for another common insecurity (cellulite!).

bareMinerals Faux Tan Gradual Glow Sunless Face Tanner ($24) This new and quick-drying formula offers a sun-kissed complexion using unique tanning peptide (for a subtle glow) and a mineral copper complex (to prolong the tan), while plant-derived emollients help lock in moisture without clogging pores.

Jergens Natural Glow & Protect Daily Moisturizer with SPF 20 ($9.49) Fair skinned beauties will love this drugstore favorite. A daily moisturizer, Jergens Natural Glow gives skin a natural and healthy-looking color within several days.

St. Tropez Self Tan Gel($24.50) St. Tropez is one of our favorite self-tanner brands, and we especially love this tanner in gel form. We recommend using an Applicator Mitt ($6.50) for an even application that won’t stick to arm or leg hairs.

L’Oreal Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Salon Airbrush Self-Tanning Mist ($10.99) This no-rub, wide-angle spray mist applicator makes self-tanning a cinch (not to mention makes our wallets extremely happy!).

Kate Somerville Somerville 360 Tanning Towelettes (8 ct., $48) For all you lazy tanners out there, Kate Somerville’s paraben-free self-tanning formula provides a uniform, quick and even application by simply swiping on in a circular motion.

Will you be trying out any of these self tanners?

Ally Batista | Elite.

Twitter: @allybatista

Photo Credit: Getty Images