A lot of people are interested in how to get a natural-looking tan without sun exposure. Everyone wants that natural glow, but you don’t want to be risking your health by getting too many UV rays. Finding the best waterproof self-tanner can be difficult because there are so many options for different skin types and preferences. The reason for this popularity is because it can be used in so many different ways, and one application lasts for days. This blog will help to find the best one for you!
At a Glance:
How Do Tanning products Work?
The two active components in all best water resistant self tanning products are dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and erythrulose. These compounds function together in what is known as “photostabilization,” which means they react with amino acids in the dead layers of your skin to generate new skin cells. The new cells become brown, giving you a tan. And just like that, your epidermis becomes darker.
My Recommendations best waterproof self tanner
St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse
Staff PickOne of the main reasons I decided to add St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse tanner to our list of best waterproof self tanner is because it’s a good, reliable product based on my personal experience. According to the results of my test, it doesn’t dry out the skin, has no noticeable scent (which is definitely helpful for those with sensitive noses), and can be easily and quickly absorbed into the skin. This mousse also works well with most of the makeup routine; if you’re looking for one that doesn’t get on your clothes or bed sheets, there might be better options out there, but this one isn’t too bad in that department. It dries relatively quickly and without stickiness which is great because most users put it on at night before going to sleep and do not have to deal with waiting around forever for it to dry. It’s rather pricey but will last you a good while, and the quality is great; one bottle contains 236 ml of product which might not look like much, but it really does go a long way. It also comes with a mitt to help provide an even application, though you can use your own if you don’t want to shell out the money.
I’m sure everyone is familiar with this product so I’ll keep my review quick and simple…this mousse is great for fair skinned ladies who have had trouble achieving a natural looking tan in the past or are just looking for something that will leave them faux-glowy without orange patches! The good thing about the product is its self-tanner that doesn’t wash off and lasts long up to ten days. Based on our past experiences, this is a reliable and long-lasting self-tanner. My only issue with this product is that it doesn’t include enough ingredients information on the label. But considering how well it works, I think it’s safe to assume that because I found a lot of positive reviews about this product without any side effects.
Best Thing: This is the best waterproof fake tan for sensitive skin and also perfect for first-time tanners, as it provides a natural-looking result.
Pros
- Quick Drying
- No self tan smell
- Easy-to-apply tinted mousse
- Long lasting
Cons
- Little Costly
Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam
The second product in the best water-resistant self-tanners list is Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam. When I tried this product, I found the foam itself to be pretty light in color, and once applied, not at all orange like most tans. It’s an easy-to-apply, self-tanning foam that gives you a flawless finish every time. Based on our past experiences, it’s a salon-quality formula that’s enriched with Aloe Vera and Coconut. You can apply it straight to the skin for an even, streak-free glow. According to the results of my test, it doesn’t smell too offensive either; any ‘fake tan’ scent disappears after a few hours. The foam dries quickly, meaning you don’t need to worry about staining clothing or bed linen; this also makes for hassle-free application as there’s no excuse not to do it!
This product is available in packing 208,2ml, which is apparently enough to last up to 10 to 12 applications depending on the size of your application area. This is a prominent selling feature for me since it appears to be quite reasonable. The manufacturer suggests using this product every three days for best results; I think this really depends on what type of base tan you currently have and how dark you want your tan to be. At first, you may use this every three days, and after that, every couple of weeks just because you may find it builds your base tan so well anyway. The whole point of the product is that it’s easy to apply and gives an instant effect, so I can’t really comment on how long it takes to develop.
The effects this product claims to have are dark, sun-kissed-looking skin with a natural tan appearance. Based on our past experiences, we’d say this is correct in so much as it gives you a nice glow and evens out your skin tone very well; we guess the only downside is that it doesn’t provide an instant mega dark tan, so you can’t expect people to be wowed in-particular if they’ve previously seen you look pasty.
For a medium tan, you can wash your skin after one hour of application. But for a dark tan, allow foam to remain on your skin for up to 6 hours. According to the results of our test, afterward, fill a tub with warm water, and rinse the skin carefully with no harsh rubbing.
Best Thing: The salon-level formula that is enriched with Aloe Vera and Coconut oil will act as a terrific moisturizer for your skin being tanned, preventing dryness and flakiness, leaving it smooth, soft, and flawless. This product is perfect for achieving a natural-looking, water-resistant tan that won’t leave you looking orange.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Pump foam applicator
- Smells Good
- Streak Free
Cons
- Can transfer color
Touch of Hemp Premium Self-Tanning Mousse
The Touch of Hemp Premium Self-Tanning Mousse is a well-known product on the market with a lot of positive reviews from customers. It is marketed as all-natural with no harmful ingredients. When I tried this tan, I was pleasantly surprised by the color and how well it blended. So I decided to add this also to our best waterproof self-tanner list. Unlike most self-tanners, which basically spray paint for your body, Touch of Hemp Premium Self-Tanning Mousse is more like a thick face mask you spread over yourself. This product is safe because of its organic content, so I decided to look up what this meant exactly. After some research, I found it has around 60% organic contents which make it the best water-resistant self-tanning Mousse.
Touch of Hemp has many different products for hair and skincare for both men and women, all made with hemp seed oil which is rich in omega fatty acids that are very beneficial to your skin. Unrefined hemp seed oil helps restore balance and hydration while fighting aging properties at the same time. It’s perfect for those who have acne or scarring problems because it kills bacteria that can lead to breakouts.
It smells like fake orange juice but mostly fades away once it dries up. My favorite thing about Touch of Hemp is how easily it blends into the skin AND HOW FAST IT DRIES! It takes you less than 15 minutes to put it on and get dressed up. If you think you will get immediate results, then don’t expect it to give your skin a tanned look after one use. You have to keep applying it until you get the desired shade, or just mix this with your foundation for an instant tan effect.
The product has a brilliant mousse texture- it’s not heavy like some other brands you may have tried, doesn’t streak nor fade off quickly, makes you feel hydrated, and gives a nice natural color that lasts for days even if you shower or swim. If you’re wondering if this can be used as a self-tanner AND a moisturizer, the answer is YES, but apply it very cautiously to avoid leaving white marks on your skin.
Best Thing: This fake tan is made with the highest quality ingredients, ensuring that it’s safe for even the most sensitive skin. This rich, creamy waterproof tanning mousse is infused with Hemp oil to moisturize your skin without clogging pores, leaving it smooth, soft, and with a natural-looking tan that lasts.
Pros
- Contains Organic Ingredients
- No Orange look
- For All skin types
Cons
- Does Not Last Longer
Skinerals Onyx Extra Dark Self Tanner
The Skinerals Onyx Extra Dark Self Tanner is another best water resistant self tanner, which is specially designed to give your skin an instant tan without any pre-tan hassle, sun damage, or damaging UV rays. This unique formula gives you color within 4 hours of application, and the color gradually develops until it becomes a beautiful, natural-looking tan after two days.
As per my experience with this tanner, this lotion is both vegan and organic, meaning it will provide immediate benefits without harming the skin. The product is effective on a wide range of skin types, so you won’t have to worry about applying it to your face; additionally, the product does not include any artificial chemicals or preservatives.
This solution differs from other tanners in that it provides results quickly. Users will start seeing results within 4 hours of application i.e.. They can go out for an event right after applying this lotion and still get the desired outcome. The color looks natural and will not wash off after you shower. It does not streak or transfer either! Moreover, Skinerals Self Tanner is a completely safe formula as it contains natural ingredients as well as constructive vitamins and antioxidants, which work to give you a long-lasting tan. You will experience all these benefits after just one application!
As we mentioned earlier, this tanner is specially made to give your skin an instant tan without having to wait for days or weeks. The best part about this self-tanner is that it develops into a deeper shade of tan within 2 days and lasts for up to 7 days. The formula will not wear off either, even after showering, which means you can flaunt your tanned skin wherever you go! And the price is quite reasonable for this one of the best waterproof self tanner.
Best Thing: The waterproof bronzers contain antioxidant-rich acai berry and fig extracts which help to nourish and protect skin. It can help reduce the appearance of blemishes, stretch marks, and scars as well.
Pros
- Instant Results
- No Bad Odor
- No Streak
- Contains antioxidants
Cons
- Not Ultra Dark
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Self Tanner Mousse
Best PickIf you’re looking for an organic, vegan and/or affordable way to get your summer glow on, Coco & Eve’s new product is worth checking out and is one of the best waterproof self tanner in the market. I’ve found through my testing that this self-tanner gives the skin an instant bronze color upon application, but it’s best to wait 5-6 hours for the tan to develop fully. I also recommend applying it at night before bed to allow more time for the color to develop.
This product is wonderful and provides a lovely golden brown color. With two applications, it lasts approximately a week and a half. Self Tanner Mousse comes in two shades: medium and dark, so you can choose the one that suits your requirements. Since it’s a mousse, not a lotion, the product is quite runny, but you can use gloves to apply the self-tanner for better control. The best part is that you can swim and shower after applying it, as it is one of the best self-tanners that doesn’t wash off.
You can definitely smell the DHA in this product, but the Sunny Honey Bali fragrance is lovely – tropical and sweet with a hint of coconut. The product promises to improve signs of aging with powerful natural antioxidants like fig, banana, papaya, and cocoa, and it can also help to hide stretch marks. It is one of the best self-tanners that doesn’t wash off, but make sure to follow the specific time period mentioned on the product for the best results.
Pros
- Anti Aging benefits
- Organic ingredients
- Smells Good
- Non Sticky
Cons
- Does not last longer
Devoted Creations WOKE UP LIKE THIS Bronzing Lotion
My friend Julia tested this self tanner so sharing her experience. The Devoted creations bronzing lotions are also the best waterproof self tanner. This product stimulates the production of melanin for darkening results that last for a long time. The formulation also contains anti-oxidants and skin pigment corrector. Featuring RevitaFit, Body Fit, and Ideal Lift, it provides superior skin tightening and firming benefits.
First off, it smells great! If you have severe allergy issues and this did not bother you at all. The best part is that I did not smell like you just left a tanning salon after using it. It is tan in color for even application, but it will not stain or appear orange. It goes on smoothly and does not leave you feeling oily or sticky like some lotions do. It leaves your skin feeling silky smooth almost immediately. Some people in their reviews call it waterproof fake tan for swimming, but as per my research and my friend’s experience, you need to avoid swimming or showering at least 10 hours after application.
My friend tested this product and found that it does not take long for this product to work. Your skin will have a golden brown appearance if you are in accordance with the directions of usage. Results vary depending on how often you tan and your skin type. However, after a couple of applications, you will notice the difference. You will feel like you have a nice natural tan.
Best Thing: This self-tanning lotion is superior because it provides skin firming and tightening benefits. It is made with anti-aging ingredients that help to improve the appearance and texture of the skin.” Make sure it should look natural.
Pros
- Smells Good
- Does not stain
- Anti Aging benefits
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Strong Smell
Fake Bake Flawless Self-Tanning Liquid
Budget PickAnother one in my list of best water resistant self tanner is Fake Bake Flawless Self-tanning liquid. I tested this tanning liquid and it is a super dark instant tan that you can apply in just three simple steps. Just clean, exfoliate and moisturize before applying the Flawless Self Tanning Liquid for perfect golden results lasting up to 7 days.
The unique formula ensures even the palest skins are gorgeously bronzed after one application, whilst darker skins receive an impressive dark bronze without any hint of orange or fake tan smell. You can enjoy gorgeous glowing golden results in just a short time, and you will never need an instant tan again! With its tropical scent and non-sticky formula, this tan develops in about 4-6 hours for a gorgeous tan.
The liquid itself is a rich dark brown color, it’s obviously fake tan, but you will be surprised that it has no orange in it at all. It smells pretty lovely actually, once you catch the scent of it on your skin after it develops, you can definitely tell there is fake tan in there, but when you first put it on or are just smelling the bottle, I wouldn’t say there’s much of a scent at all, maybe just a bit of black coconut. With the help of a built-in color guide, Fake Bake lets you see where you’re applying the self-tanner on your skin, so streaks can be avoided. The kit also comes with a mitt that will assist in spreading the self-tanner.
I would recommend this to everyone who wants an instant fake tan that is easy to apply and has absolutely no orange in it. One bottle lasts me ten applications depending on how much you are putting on. This is the best waterproof self tanner due to its unique formulation, which works together to create a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow instantly.
Pros
- Fast Absorbing
- Last longer
- Natural color
- Works with every skin tone
Cons
- Can Dry Skin
Sun Laboratories Ultra Dark Self-Tanning Lotion
I didn’t personally use Sun Labs self-tanning lotion but found several positive reviews from other customers, which is why I included this lotion in my list of best waterproof self tanning products. This product will provide you with an immediate tan look that will keep getting darker for up to 7 days. The ultra dark self-tanning lotion contains an anti-aging formula that helps moisturize your skin while also maintaining it healthy and vibrant, without clogging pores. Instant color makes this the perfect solution for those who are always on the go. Ensure that it is smoothed evenly over the face and body. Color is immediate, and it intensifies within three hours.
Utilizing natural ingredients, this product enhances your overall appearance by leaving behind a golden glow without any orange hues. The added ingredients of aloe Vera and chamomile extract will leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated without any greasy residue. There is a shade for everyone that dries quickly within three hours without streaking or patchiness for an effortless, sun-kissed glow that lasts long and keeps your skin glowing. If you are a person who likes to have a dark tan but wants it fast and natural, this tanning lotion is best for you. I love the smell. It’s like cherry lotion. You wake up at least three shades darker after using it. This product does not stain clothes or sheets, so that is a significant plus.
Best Thing: This waterproof sunless tanner is free of the harmful parabens, meaning it will not harm your skin in any way. The product also contains Vitamins C and E, which are both antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect your skin from environmental damage, and they also help to reduce the signs of aging. Vitamin C is also a brightening agent, so it will help to lighten any dark spots on your skin. Vitamin E is a moisturizing agent, so it will help to keep your skin hydrated.
Pros
- Quick results
- Natural Ingredients
- Paraben Free
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Tan Smell
Frequently Asked Questions about Self Tanner
Does fake tan come in waterproof form?
A self-tanner that is quickly absorbed into the skin and lasts up to a week is considered a waterproof tanner. You just need to wait for a specific time period mentioned on the product, and then you can take a shower or go out to swim; your tan will not fade out.
Can I tan my skin permanently with fake tanners?
It does give you a tan to some extent, but the effect only lasts from 2 days to 1 week after applying it. The color gradually fades away. If you have been using it for one or two years, the result may be different because your skin absorbs it more quickly than others. Therefore, its effects last longer. That’s why people become addicted to them.
Is it okay to swim in chlorine after applying a fake tan?
Swimming directly after a spray tan is not recommended for at least 8 hours because of the risk of staining your pool or hot tub. One way that fake tans are unique from natural tans is that they don’t wear off with water exposure or time, but instead they can be rubbed off by contact with certain substances, which makes their potential permanence very important if you plan on doing things like swimming in a chlorinated pool or attending an event where you will perspire a lot.
Conclusion:
All tanners which I have added to my list of best waterproof self-tanner are good to go. But if you are looking for a self-tanner that provides just enough color, is easy to apply, and dries quickly St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse is your product! I’ll be honest- No funky smell at all. Without fuss or hassle, this mousse will leave you bronzed in no time. When you’d like an even glow from head to toe on a weekend getaway, it’s perfect!