Dana’s Favorite Sunless Tanning Secrets

You know that golden glow we all crave around summertime (or let’s be real—year-round)? Yeah, it turns out you don’thave to roast like a rotisserie chicken to get it. As much as I love the sun on my face and a cute lounge chair moment, I don’t always have the time—or patience—to sit outside for hours baking a tan into place.     That’s where sunless tanning swoops in like the bronze fairy godmother we didn’t know we needed. ✨

If you’ve ever worried about turning out orange or streaky (hello, zebra legs of the early 2000s), let me reassure you—today’s products are so much better. I’ve tested quite a few over the years, and these three are my tried-and-true favorites for a natural-looking tan without the sun damage.

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🧴 1. Jergens Natural Glow Sunless Tanner (Medium to Dark)

This one’s a no-fuss daily lotion that builds gradually. It’s perfect if you want to ease into the glow, or if you’re a little nervous about going full bronze right away. It moisturizes, smells nice, and never looks fake or streaky.

🛒 Shop Jergens on Walmart »

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🫧 2. St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse + Mitt

When I need a quick transformation—like before a weekend event or when I want to look alive before Monday hits—St. Tropez is my go-to. The foam is lightweight, the scent is surprisingly tolerable, and the included mitt keeps your hands from looking suspicious. Leave it on for 1 to 3 hours depending on how deep you want the glow.

🛒 Grab the St. Tropez Set on Amazon »

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☕️ 3. Fake Bake Flawless Self-Tan Mousse

The name says it all. “Fake” but flawless. This one’s been around for a while, and for good reason. It gives one of the most natural-looking tans I’ve ever had. It goes on like a dream with the mitt and has a slight color guide so you can see where you’ve already applied.

🛒 Find Fake Bake on Amazon »

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Dana’s Pro Tips for a Streak-Free Glow:

• Exfoliate first. Dry, flaky skin is a no-go. Think of your skin like a blank canvas—you want it smooth and prepped.

• Use a mitt. Always. Even if the bottle says you don’t have to. Trust me.

• Work in sections. Arms, then legs, then torso—so you don’t miss a spot and end up with a surprise white patch.

• Let it dry. Give it a good 10 minutes before putting on clothes. Air-drying in a robe with a podcast on = the move.

• Stay hydrated. Glowy skin starts from within. Drink the water, babe.

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When your schedule’s packed and the sun just isn’t cooperating (or you’re trying to be a responsible adult and avoid UV damage), sunless tanning is such a game-changer. Sure, it takes a couple of hours start to finish, but compared to trying to carve out days in the sun? I’ll take it.

Let me know your favorite self-tanners in the comments—or if you try any of these! I’ll be the one over here glowing without even stepping outside. 😎✨

xoxo, Dana 💛