19 best self-tan products for mature skin for a hydrated and sun-kissed glow every time

Dove is a trusted name in skincare, so it’s no surprise that their Summer Revived Gradual Self-Tan Lotion delivers a natural, streak-free glow while deeply nourishing the skin. Formulated with hydrating glycerin, aloe vera and pro-lipids, this dermatologically tested tan locks in moisture for lasting hydration—perfect for keeping skin soft and smooth.

Our tester raved: “After trying many different moisturising gradual tans, this is now the only one I buy because it never streaks! It always leaves me with a natural and even glow.” Thanks to its cell-moisturising formula, this self-tanner blends effortlessly, ensuring no orange patches or streaks, even when applied without precision. The rich hydration targets dry areas like knees and elbows, leaving skin feeling nourished and supple.
"My skin is left feeling really nourished and moisturised. It gives me smooth feeling skin with a gentle and natural looking glow."

Unlike many tanning products, there’s no unpleasant biscuity odour—just a lovely sweet peach fragrance. And while the formula feels luxe, this is one of the most affordable self-tanners out there. “I use this on holiday to top up my tan, and it makes it last so much longer. I can’t rate this bargain tanner highly enough!”

If you're looking for an easy, foolproof way to achieve a radiant glow while keeping your skin hydrated, Dove’s Summer Revived Gradual Self-Tan Lotion is a must-have.

St. Tropez is the UK's most trusted tanning brand, and we can see why! This Self Tan Purity Face Mist is infused with uplifting green mandarin water, hyaluronic acid and tropical hibiscus flower extract, which helps to combat the effects of pollution.

Sprayed on as a lightweight, transparent mist, it's a great option for dry skin. Because it's translucent, you don't need to worry about making a mess or transferring it to clothes. Refreshing and easy to use, you'll have a glowing, natural-looking facial tan developed to show off in 4-8 hours.

Our tester was really surprised how at how evenly this product went on.
"I love using this self-tan face mist in summer. It's incredibly refreshing and so quick and easy to use. You literally just spray it on your face. There's no need to rub it in with your fingers, so there's no worry about being left with orange hands.
"I found that just after one use I was left with a natural glow. I tend to use it every other day as everyday made my skin a bit too dark as I'm naturally quite pale.
"There's absolutely no mess, and no streaks left on your bed clothes, even if you apply it at night."
Many customer love the smell of this product but our tester wasn't that keen.
"I didn't love the small but equally it didn't bother me. It's not all unpleasant, but as you apply this to your face it's quite noticeable throughout the day."

To conclude this is a cost-effective and non-ageing alternative to sunbeds. It won't stain your pillows, and it can be used under and over makeup.

Nivea's Q10 Firming Plus Radiance Gradual Tan not only leaves you with a natural-looking sun-kissed glow but also contains a powerful Q10 coenzyme that tightens and firms skin for an anti-ageing effect. The formula is moisturising and hydrating, making it a fabulous option for mature or dry skin types. It leaves your skin feeling soft, supple and silky smooth all day long.

Our tester described it as a solid self-tanner with a few things to keep in mind.
"The product has a pleasant scent, reminiscent of sunscreen, which I didn’t mind at all," she says. "Application is a breeze, as it glides on smoothly and evenly without any streaks. I used my hands to apply it, and it covered my skin effortlessly, but a word of caution, make sure to wash your hands afterward, as it can leave stains.
"While the product develops, I did notice a bit of the typical 'fake tan' smell, which I wasn’t particularly fond of, but it wasn’t overpowering. Thankfully, the scent faded once it fully developed. The product didn’t irritate my skin, and it dried pretty quickly, though I recommend waiting for it to fully dry before getting dressed, as it could transfer onto clothing if you’re not careful.
In terms of results, the tan gradually developed and left my skin with a healthy, radiant glow. It’s not an instant bronzer, but with consistent use, you’ll see a subtle yet noticeable tan. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something easy to apply and gentle on the skin."

Skinny Tan’s Wonder Serum is where tanning meets skincare. This bestselling, top-rated formula is enriched with Q10 and vitamin E extracts, working as a full-body anti-ageing treatment that’s particularly beneficial for mature skin. The guide colour ensures an even application, while the tan develops over a few hours before being washed off to reveal a natural-looking glow.

Our tester was thoroughly impressed: “I have to say, this product is my new favourite tan. The colour was glowy and natural on my pale skin tone, and it was the first tan that I received compliments for.”

Unlike traditional mousse-based tans, this serum formula offers enhanced hydration, leaving the skin feeling moisturised and smooth. “I was always a big fan of mousse-based tans, but this serum felt much more moisturising on the skin and lasted much longer.”
This glow-boosting serum hydrates the skin while providing an even, ultra-dark tan.
"I started using this almost two years ago, and I am still resolutely a Wonder Serum loyalist, I’ve thus far found nothing that matches its luminous and extra dark yet natural-looking results. It applies smoothly and blends seamlessly, leaving behind no streaks or uneven spots. It gives me the most realistic, deep tan I’ve ever had from a bottle."

Not only does Wonder Serum deliver long-lasting results, but it also fades beautifully while helping to blur imperfections, giving skin a flawless finish. “It faded beautifully and did a good job at hiding any skin imperfections!”

For a hydrating, skin-perfecting tan with a natural glow, Skinny Tan’s Wonder Serum is a must-try.

Read our full Skinny Tan review.

If you love a streak-free tan but hate stained sheets, this lightweight, hydrating formula is for you. Enriched with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5 and Aloe Vera, it locks in moisture, making it ideal for those with dry or mature skin. Unlike many self-tans that can turn patchy or flaky, this one fades naturally and evenly, leaving a beautifully smooth finish.

Our tester confirmed: “As someone with drier skin, I found this tan faded beautifully and gradually, unlike many others that become flaky after a week or so.” The refreshing pink grapefruit scent provides an uplifting alternative to the usual self-tan smell, while the stain-free formula means no more worrying about discoloured sheets: “I also loved that my white bed sheets did not get stained after wearing this overnight.”

Clear in colour, this won’t leave you looking overly tanned right after application, won’t stain your bed sheets, and leaves no streaks - just a smooth, natural-looking golden glow. 

"If you really like a full-impact finish, this one probably isn’t for you, but if you’re all about subtlety, I think it’s worth a shot. Given how easy it is to apply and how quickly it dries, I’d say it’s perfect for maintaining a golden glow (it lasts about six days before needing a reapplication, which isn’t too bad!). You do need to scrub it away before it fades too unevenly though."

With its clear formula, application is effortless for experienced tanners, though beginners may need a little practice. But for those seeking a hydrating, naturally fading tan, this is a must-try.

Don't worry, this product won't leave you feeling greasy despite being oil-based. This Natural Bronzer Self-Tan Dry Oil from Garnier will absorb rapidly into the skin and dry instantly. This enriches the skin with nourishing coconut and apricot kernel oil, giving a gorgeous sun-kissed glow. It'll hydrate and soften dry skin. Plus, the spray applicator will help to evenly distribute the tan on your skin for quick and easy application – without streaks.

Our tester was really impressed with this product.
"The spray application makes it easy to use, although I found it a little thin and runny, so I found it easier to spray it directly onto my hand for better control during application," she said. "Once applied, it rubbed in nicely and didn’t settle into any fine lines, which I really appreciated.
The texture is smooth, and while it feels a bit greasy right after application, I was pleasantly surprised that there was no residue or stickiness once it fully dried. That being said, it does talk a good half an hour to completely dry, so maybe don’t apply this one if you need to get somewhere in a hurry afterwards. The oil leaves my skin feeling soft, shiny, and hydrated, with a beautiful golden glow. It gives a natural, sun-kissed look that doesn’t appear fake, which is a huge plus for me.
Overall, a great option for a subtle, streak-free, natural tan with a lovely, radiant finish."

Whether you’re new to fake tan and looking to try some high-quality products or searching for the perfect gift for a tanning enthusiast, the Bondi Sands Ultimate Aussie Glow 8-Piece Gift Set is an excellent choice. This comprehensive set includes everything needed for a flawless, sun-kissed glow: Self-Tanning Foam Dark, Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Foam, Tinted Skin Protector Gradual Tanning Lotion, One Hour Express Self-Tanning Foam, Gradual Tanning Face Lotion, SPF 50+ Fragrance-Free Tinted Face Fluid, Self Tan Eraser, and a Self-Tan Mitt.

Our tester was impressed by the presentation and value: “I got this for a friend who always wears fake tan, and I was pleasantly surprised at how neatly it was packaged.” Not only does the set offer a range of tanning options, but it also provides a complete tanning routine, including self-tan for the face, a remover, and a mitt. “They were delighted to receive so many full-sized products (including self-tan for the face) and were pleased that it comes with some remover and a mitt.”

This all-in-one set includes everything needed for a seamless, streak-free tan, making it a fantastic giftor a great way to treat yourself to the ultimate Aussie glow.

Beauty by Earth’s Organic and Natural Self Tanner is composed of organic ingredients that'll give you that sun-kissed look, without the damage. With organic shea butter, argan oil and coconut oil, it will nourish as you tan. The colour is natural and easily buildable, which you can use to help diminish the appearance of veins and blemishes. We've picked this as our best self-tan for mature skin overall.

Customers highly praise the natural result of this self-tan. It doesn't stain and it has a nice scent. They say that it goes on smoothly and is easy to blend. For mature skin, this is a top option, because it will apply evenly to loosen skin. One customer comments that it was like "putting on a lotion" and their skin felt wonderfully moisturised.

This lightweight, silky mousse from Coco & Eve delivers an instant bronze that is fast drying and develops in just two hours for a natural-looking golden glow. The Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam is non-sticky, leaves no streaks, and smells divine. It's fragranced with tropical mango and guava so you won't get that 'biscuit' fake tan smell, and you'll feel like you're holidaying in the tropics – we wish! The enriching formula is filled with natural antioxidants, botanicals, and amino acids to hydrate the skin, blur imperfections, and help to improve the signs of ageing and cellulite.

Customers have left over 3,700 reviews on the Coco & Eve website, rating it 4.8 out of 5. They love the natural tanned result and tropical coconut scent. Many rate it as the best self-tan they've used. If you're looking for a product that gives a noticable tanned finish, this is a top option for a smear-free sun-kissed look.

Read our full Coco & Eve products review.

James Read's tanning brand has been endorsed by celebrities and tan advocates alike. The H20 Gradual Self Tanning Spray is an easy-to-apply mist that you spray over your face to give you a buildable bronzed effect. We would also recommend James Read's H2O Gradual Tan Drops, which can be mixed in with your favourite moisturiser or foundation during your skincare or makeup routine as an easy method of self-tanning your face.

Customer comments that less is more for a natural look, as this product can develop into a deep tan. This self-tan is a good choice if you like a bronzed look. Also, if you're fair haired, a customer says this doesn't turn hair ginger, as some other products can.

Enriched with apricot oil, vitamins and unsaturated fatty acids, Garnier's Summer Body Gradual Tan also intensively hydrates skin all day long. There's a choice between two shades, from 'light' to 'deep', so you can build a tan that suits you.
Our tester gave this a glowing review after using the 'light' shade for three weeks.
"It comes in a generous bottle and I found that I didn’t have to use a lot. I applied a small amount daily and found the tan developed quite deep pretty quickly so then I started using it every other day instead.
Our tester was really impressed with how soft it left her skin.
"It's deeply moisturising so left my skin feeling really soft and hydrated. It also delivered a nice even tan- I had no streaks at all which I was thrilled with."
Our tester commented that it took a few minutes to sink into her skin so she needed to leave it about 5 minutes before getting dressed, but on the whole she loved it.
"It has a lovely sweet peachy scent and left absolutely no stains on my clothes or bedding. I think this product is great value for money. It's become my new body moisturiser, with benefits! If you have fair skin I'd recommend starting with the 'light' shade to see how you get on."

Vita Liberata Fabulous Self-Tanning Gradual Lotion is an ultra-hydrating formula with nourishing organic botanical ingredients that'll make your tan look smoother and help with your anti-ageing routine. This lotion boosts your skin’s water levels and can leave it looking plump and youthful. Organic to help your skin heal, this self-tanner locks in your moisture for 72 hours. Great for dry or sensitive skin, it's completely free from parabens, perfumes, alcohol and toxins.

Customers praise this self-tan for it being easy to apply and it results in a builable tan that looks natural. It also has good longevity. Once tried, customers have made this their go-to self-tan lotion.

Finding a self-tanner for your body is simple, but it’s not always so easy finding one that works well for your face, especially if you have sensitive or breakout-prone skin. COOLA's Sunless Tan Face Serum is made with moisturising hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and argan oil to leave your skin feeling smooth, hydrated and glowing. It even has plant stem cell cultures too to help reduce the signs of premature skin ageing that you may have developed when trying to tan in the past. But, don’t be fearful if you have sun or age spots, as this product won’t darken or draw more attention to them. Use it on its own, or add it to your everyday moisturiser for a lighter boost.

A serum is a lightweight alternative to creams and lotions; it can be more suitable for people who suffer with sensitive skin. This product doesn't have a bronzer, so it's best used on fair skin to create a natural, healthy glow. It won't make much difference on darker skin.

As we get older, our skin often loses hydration. So, a moisturising self-tan will help tenfold if you're looking to glow. This Natural Bronze Gradual Tanning Moisturiser from Palmer's will keep your skin looking radiant and will provide a delicate, sun-kissed tan. Plus, you can gradually build it to get the skin tone you're looking for. Packed with pure cocoa butter and vitamin E, it'll provide 24-hour moisture to have your skin feeling its best.

Customers say that they can see a difference in their skin tone after one application, but it takes two or three applications to develop a deeper tan. People with pale skin say this moisturising self-tan works on their skin type and it dries streak-free. However, it does have a particularly strong fake tan aroma that divides opinion.

The secret to a flawless tan is using a mitt – promise! Using your hands can leave streaks and patches and turn your palms and knuckles orange. This Self Tanning Mitt Applicator is double-sided for durable use and makes self-tanning a breeze with good distribution, giving you a more even, natural-looking finish. It's machine washable, so you can stick it in the machine when it's ready. We also love that it comes with a mini applicator so you can apply evenly to the more difficult areas, such as your face, ankles or toes.

It's received over 7,000 reviews on Amazon, rating it 4.5 out of 5. Customers say it's an effective way of applying streak-free self-tan, plus it keeps your hands clean. The smaller mitt is perfect for applying product to your face and neck. No more orange hands!

Get a natural looking golden glow in as little as two hours with Nuxe Hydrating Self Tan. Its scent is evocative of holidays in the sun, combining orange, tiare and vanilla for a sweet and floral fragrance.
It has a silky texture that is easily rubbed into skin and absorbs fast. There are light-reflecting pearly particles in the formulation to give you an uplifting glow.

Customer reviews across the web indicate that people love the scent and it's a streak-free self tan that is fine to apply even on sensitive skin.

However, some reviews suggest that it's a subtle self tan and some people did not see a marked change in their skin tone. As always, skin type is a factor, so we'd recommend this self tan for paler skin.

For glorious sun-kissed sun, Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan is a popular choice. Plus, this cream gel contains moisturising and protective ingredients to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
It's an award-winning product, with a fragrance profile based on pear, mandarin, sandalwood and musk. Also, it contains coconut oil to nourish skin and vitamin E to protect against the effects of pollution.

A customer says they received compliments about their tan after only two applications. Another says this is an effective self tan for fair skinned people.

Just two pumps per limb is enough to provide coverage, so a little goes a long way. See results in as little as 3–4 hours.

This Works Perfect Legs Gradual Tan combines natural caramel and DHA that results in a golden gradual tan. This is a 98% natural and vegan product from a popular health and beauty brand.

Customers said this self tan was easy to apply because the tint is immediately visible when you apply it to skin. This gradual tan has been panel tested, with the vast majority of users saying their tan was streak-free, natural looking and that they felt more confident about their skin as a result.

Enriched with sweet orange oil, this self tan is a light and bright choice from a top brand in natural and ethical beauty.

Note that this product is not suitable to be used on the face.

The Gradual by Tan-Luxe is a weightless blend of oil and lotion that begins to develop a gentle glow in as little as one hour. It contains hydrating and healthy ingredients for skin, including raspberry seed oil, vitamin E, aloe vera and a caffeine-rich cellutone complex that firms skin.

It's applied to skin in the same way as you would apply a body moisturiser. Just be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after applying it. It can be used daily to build a deep colour.

Customers say that it's pleasantly scented and not sticky to apply. It leaves skin feeling moisturised. However, some customers say that it's a runny product and therefore a little difficult to apply. Start by using a small amount until you get used to the consistency and the results.