best tanning oils

11 Best Tanning Oil Self-tanners & Tanning Oils

Whether it’s summer and you’re looking to head to the beach or it’s winter and you want to enhance your natural skin color and give yourself a little glow, tanning oil can go a long way. 

There are now a variety of products on the market that offer you a natural-looking tan.

There are spray oils, SPF oils, and even organic formulas. Of course, we appreciate the options but with so many choices, it can be hard to make a decision.

It’s always best to ensure you have fully exfoliated, and that your skin is well hydrated before applying self tanning products.

Follow these link for our reviews of the Best Exfoliation Gloves or if you prefer not to use gloves the Best Body Scrub and Best In-shower Body Lotions/Moisturizer for locked in hydration.

Best tanning oils and self-tanners

That’s why we’ve created this list of the 11 best tanning oil self-tanners to help you get the glowing skin of your dreams.

Sun Bum Tanning Oil SPF 15

Sun Bum SPF 15 Moisturizing Tanning Oil

This tanning oil by Sun Bum contains a nourishing blend of marula, argan oil, coconut, and avocado oils that will actively protect your skin whilst you tan at the same time.

This tanning oil self-tanner has many rave reviews, and it’s easy to see why. This impressive product gives you a stunning glow and even has an affordable price point.

To use this tanning oil and receive maximum protection, apply it roughly 15 minutes before any outdoor

Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil

Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Sun Care Moisturizing Oil

Many organic tanning oils can have an expensive price tag, this tanning oil by Hawaiian Tropic provides a deep but natural tan at an affordable and accessible price.

This oil has a variety of natural scents such as coconut oil, passionflower, mango, papaya, and guava. It also contains cocoa butter and aloe which also works to moisturize your skin.

This tanning oil self-tanner is great for enhancing your existing tan, but beware that this doesn’t contain any SPF protection, so beware of staying in the sun for extended periods of time. This product doesn’t leave any greasy residue behind.

Bali Body Watermelon Tanning Oil SPF 6

BALI BODY Watermelon Tanning Oil SPF6

This product smells delightful. Not only this, but it’s ultra-lightweight and doesn’t leave behind any sticky or greasy feel on your skin.

This contains organic watermelon seed oil to enhance your natural tan and provides you with a deep, stunning glow. This formula is extremely hydrating too.

This tanning oil also contains sun protection, so you can relax in the sun without worrying too much about skin damage.

Panama Jack Tanning Oil

Panama Jack Tanning Oil

Panama Jack’s tanning oil will boost your tan significantly.

It contains a stunning blend of fruit and nut extracts, as well as hydrating oils and a mild tropical scent that’ll have you fantasizing about life on a luxury, tropical island. 

Another great thing about this tanning oil self-tanner is that Panama Jack does not test on animals. It’s also free from any synthetic preservatives, dyes, and parabens.

Australian Gold Dark Tanning Exotic Oil

Australian Gold Dark Tanning Exotic Oil

This tanning oil self-tanner by Australian Gold is a great option if you’re looking for a non-greasy formula. It contains sunflower seed oil, olive oil, and tea area oil to provide nourishment and hydration to the skin.

This tanning oil is easily absorbed, leaving behind minimal residue. It’s also reasonably priced and the color-enhancing formula will add an additional boost of bronze for even more radiance.

This product doesn’t contain any SPF protection, so you should always wear it with additional sunscreen.

Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil

Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil

This nourishing tanning oil is infused with organic cocoa to give your skin a bronzed glow as you work towards a deep natural suntan.

Once applied you can immediately see the effects, with your skin emitting a bronze and radiant glow, even if you’re starting with no tan at all. 

It has a non-greasy formula and contains gentle ingredients that are suitable for sensitive skin. This product works well on all skin colors too.

To use, apply generously whilst in the sun for a deep healthy glow.

This product has light SPF protection, but if you’re planning to spend a long time in the sun, it’s recommended to use it with additional sunscreen to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

Maui Babe Tanning and Browning Lotion

Maui Babe Tanning and Browning Lotion

This all-natural tanning oil self-tanner by Maui Babe is made from a secret Hawaiian formula, including aloe, Kona coffee plant extract, and more.

This product is safe for all skin types no matter your complexion. 

By using this product, you’re guaranteed a natural, beautiful, dark tan.

This tanning oil self-tanner is especially beloved by people who struggle normally to catch a tan, making it a great alternative to damaging sunbeds and UV rays.

Banana Boat Deep Tanning Spray Oil

Banana Boat Deep Tanning Spray Oil

Another solid tanning oil we recommend is Banana Boat Deep Tanning Oil Spray.

This reef-safe spray oil is formulated with carrot and banana ingredients to give you a rich tan and velvety skin.

The spray bottle is particularly handy, which is ideal for misting hard-to-reach places like your back.

COOLA Organic Sunless Self Tanner Dry Oil Mist

COOLA Organic Sunless Self Tanner Dry Oil Mist

Next up on our list is the COOLA Organic Sunless Self Tanner Dry Oil Mist, this is another great option for a tanning oil self-tanner.

This tanning oil’s mist applicator allows you to evenly spray it from head to toe, leaving you with a glossy, sun-kissed radiance that lasts up to three days.

If you’re searching for a temporary shimmer for a special occasion like a wedding, engagement party, or birthday party, this is a perfect choice.

St. Tropez Self Tan Dark Bronzing Mousse

St. Tropez Self Tan Dark Bronzing Mousse

If you have darker skin but still want to get in on the self-tanning action, the St. Tropez Self Tan Dark Bronzing Mousse was made just for you.

The majority of self-tanning solutions are designed for those with fair to light skin tones, ignoring a large segment of the population with darker complexions who want to glow.

This light mousse is perfect for getting a tan at home without having to expose yourself to UV rays. While it is costly, you can be confident that this product will not leave streaks and will dry evenly for a uniform and beautiful glow all over.

Banana Boat Ultra Mist Dry Tanning Oil

Banana Boat Ultra Mist Dry Tanning Oil

Finally, we have another great option by the beloved brand Banana Boat.

This tanning oil is a great option as it comes in a spray bottle, making it easier to apply evenly than others.

This is a cost-effective solution that applies dry and has an SPF protection of 4 or 8.

It has a lovely coconut and grapeseed oil scent that is light and can be applied from any angle, making it simple to cover all areas of your body.

The tanning spray is also water-resistant, so you can cool off in the ocean, and still feel the effects.

It should, however, be reapplied after numerous trips. It doesn’t stain clothing or materials, unlike other sprays, and leaves your skin soft and moist.