Our Favorite Self-Tanners That Don’t Smell Gross

June 01, 2020
Samantha Holender
By: Samantha Holender | Makeup.com by L'Oréal
self tanner dont smell

My complexion is fair as can be and I refuse to leave the confines of my apartments sans a heavy (I repeat: heavy) application of SPF. Given that and my skin’s tendency to burn, self-tanner is my summertime BFF. It wasn’t always the case though. I had a serious aversion to self-tanner for years. The chemical-like smell and stinky residual odor grossed me out. But with super fair skin and a desire to be bronzed to perfection in the summer months, I set out to try as many  self-tanners as possible. Ahead, I’m sharing my all-time favorite, non-smelly self-tanners that you (and your nose) will love applying. 


1 / 5

L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Water Mousse 

For a tan that gradually develops over four to eight hours, give this L’Oréal option a try. It’s a mousse that gives the skin a sun-kissed glow and smooth, even coverage (no streaks allowed!). If you want a longer lasting tan, apply the product three times over 12 to 24 hours. The best part? This tanner smells like a mix of a tropical vacation and coconut.
2 / 5

Lancôme Flash Bronzer 

For a self-tanner that smells clean and fresh (think: sunscreen-ish), the Lancôme Flash Bronzer is the one for you. It’s a tinted lotion that gives your skin a golden, streak-free tan. The color develops over 30 minutes and will last up to five days. Plus, the formula dries down in minutes and won’t transfer onto furniture or clothing post-application. 
3 / 5

L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Tanning Towelettes 

If you fear getting the dreaded self-tanner line on your wrists and ankles or streaks on the back of your legs, we promise the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Tanning Towelettes are the answer. The wipes make application a breeze and ensure streak-free application. Oh, and there’s no mess or odor. Just wipe your body with the towelette and watch your skin turn from pale to bronze over two to four hours. 
4 / 5

Miami Gorgeous La Playa Glow Self Tanning Mousse 

For a self-tanner with zero odor, this Miami Gorgeous mousse is the way to go. It makes you look a few shades darker without picking up any orange hues. It’s formulated with argan oil, vitamins A, C and D, coconut, olive and jojoba oils, so it’s nourishing and hydrating on the skin. Just make sure you wash your hands after application!  
5 / 5

Tan Luxe The Face Illuminating Self Tan Drops 

Not all self-tanners are created equal — especially when it comes to bronzing your face. That’s where these Tan Luxe drops come into play. All you have to do is mix the illuminating concentrate with any moisturizer or serum and apply as usual. It’ll gradually tan your face for a radiant, illumized and naturally bronzed finish. 


Read more

Loading