A nice summer glow definitely helps to freshen up pale winter skin. No need to go the route of UV damaging tanning beds or toxic spray tans. Natural facial self-tanning lotions are the healthiest option.

Facial self-tanners have come a long way since the orange, streaky products of a decade or two ago. This quick and inexpensive alternative is becoming a big favorite amongst those looking for a safer tan. It is important to keep in mind that not all tanners are safe.

So which are the safest facial self tanners? Let’s start with which ones are not safe. Most department and drug store brand facial tanners include such toxic ingredients as petro-chemicals, silicones, parabens, and synthetic fragrance. These harmful ingredients have been linked to everything from skin irritation to certain cancers.

The safest facial self‐tanning products are made with all natural, nontoxic ingredients. The active ingredients in safe facial tanners are naturally sourced Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and Erythrulose. These naturally-derived plant sugars are found in sugar beets or cane sugar, and raspberries. The browned effect they bestow is the result of a nontoxic reaction with amino acids on the top layer of skin. The color change is called melanoidins, similar in color to the melanins our bodies produce naturally with a suntan. (DHA) and Erythrulose achieve a more natural looking tan than chemical tanning agents and are a much safer alternative. A tanned look appears within 2-4 hours of application and gradually fades over 3-10 days. Which tanner is right for your face?

As with other skin care products, facial tanners are made specifically for the more delicate skin of the face. Just as you would not use body lotion as a facial moisturizer, self-tanners designed just for body can be too heavy or irritating for delicate facial skin. In the name of convenience, some natural tanning lotions are formulated to be lighter – suitable for use on both face and body.

The Safest Facial Self‐Tanning Lotions

If you are looking for hydration with a light glow, Lavera FACES Summer Glow Self Tanner for Face is super easy to use and feels like a daily moisturizer. Delivers natural looking results and is gentle enough for most skin types.

We talked about products that double as face and body tanners. These two fit the bill. Designed to be gentle enough for both face and body, True Natural Self Tanner Anti-Aging Face & Body (comes in Citrus or Lavender scent) is made with healthy organic ingredients and offers a medium-hued tan. Hydrating and easy to apply.

For a darker tan try True Natural Tropical Tan. This self-tanner also works on both face and body, and produces a streak free tropical tan. Comes in beach-inspired Vanilla Coconut scent. A customer favorite!

Award winning Lavera Self Tanner offers the ultimate in tanned perfection. This creamy, lightly scented organic sunless tanning lotion goes on effortlessly and produces a super natural looking tan. This gentle, gluten-free self tanner may be mixed with a bit of moisturizer and applied as a facial tanner. Two products in one tube.