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Top 8 Best Natural Tanning Oils

UpdatedJuly 23, 2024

Sun-kissed skin is a desirable look for many people, but achieving it can be a challenge. Sun exposure can be harmful to the skin, and many tanning products on the market contain chemicals that can be damaging to the body. Fortunately, there are natural tanning oils available that can help you achieve the perfect tan without harmful side effects.

When choosing the best natural tanning oil, it's essential to consider the ingredients carefully. Some oils can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, so it's essential to choose a product that is gentle on the skin. Additionally, you should consider the level of SPF protection offered by the oil, especially if you plan to spend extended periods in the sun.

We spent hours researching and testing several natural tanning oils to identify the best options for achieving a beautiful, healthy tan. In this article, we'll share our top picks and provide helpful tips for choosing the right natural tanning oil for your needs.

Top 3 Best Natural Tanning Oils

  1. Absolutely Natural
  2. Carroten Natural Tanning Oil
  3. Dr. Mercola Natural Tanning Oil

We all love getting that perfect summer tan, but we also want to protect our skin from harmful chemicals and UV rays. That's why we've compiled a list of the best natural tanning oils on the market. These oils are made with all-natural ingredients that provide nourishment and protection to your skin while giving you a beautiful, sun-kissed glow. Whether you're lounging on the beach or just soaking up some rays in your backyard, these tanning oils will help you achieve the perfect tan without compromising your health. Check out our top picks below.


Absolutely Natural - Dark Tanning Oil For Outdoor Sun 6floz Helps Tan Faster & Deeper While Keeping Skin Moisturized & Protected

Editor's Choice

Absolutely Natural - Dark Tanning Oil For Outdoor Sun 6floz Helps Tan Faster & Deeper While Keeping Skin Moisturized & Protected

Absolutely Natural - Dark Tanning Oil delivers impressive results—quick absorption, deep tans, and non-greasy hydration. Its subtle fragrance is a plus, though it's pricier and might not suit fair skin. Yet, for a luxurious, effective tan, this oil stands out among the best

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We highly recommend Absolutely Natural - Dark Tanning Oil for those who want to achieve a deeper and faster tan while keeping their skin moisturized and protected.

Pros

  • Provides a deep and fast tan
  • Moisturizes and protects the skin
  • Pleasant fragrance

Cons

  • Slightly expensive
  • Not suitable for those with fair skin
  • Strong fragrance may bother some people

We've used Absolutely Natural - Dark Tanning Oil for a few weeks now, and we're impressed with the results. The oil is easy to apply and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling moisturized and protected. We noticed a significant difference in the depth and speed of our tans compared to other tanning oils we've used in the past.

One of the best things about this tanning oil is its fragrance. It has a pleasant scent that's not overpowering or too sweet. We found ourselves enjoying the fragrance throughout the day.

However, the only downside to this product is its price. It's slightly more expensive than other tanning oils on the market. Additionally, if you have fair skin, this tanning oil may not be suitable for you as it could cause burning.

Overall, we highly recommend Absolutely Natural - Dark Tanning Oil for those who are looking for a high-quality tanning oil that provides a deep and fast tan while keeping the skin moisturized and protected.


Carroten Natural Tanning Oil

Carroten Natural Tanning Oil

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We highly recommend the Carroten Natural Tanning Oil for those looking for a natural and moisturizing tanning oil.

Pros

  • Provides a natural-looking tan
  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Suitable for all skin types

Cons

  • Overwhelming fragrance
  • Artificially floral scent
  • May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin

We used this tanning oil on our recent beach vacation and were impressed with the natural-looking tan it provided. We also appreciated that it moisturized our skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.

Although the fragrance was overwhelming and had an artificially floral scent, it was not a deal-breaker for us. However, those with sensitive skin may want to avoid this product.

Overall, we believe the Carroten Natural Tanning Oil is a great option for those looking for a natural and moisturizing tanning oil.


Dr. Mercola Natural Tanning Oil

Dr. Mercola Natural Tanning Oil

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We highly recommend Dr. Mercola Natural Tanning Oil for those looking for a natural and hypoallergenic tanning oil that is free from artificial fragrances and toxic ingredients.

Pros

  • Provides a natural and even tan
  • Does not cause irritation or allergic reactions
  • Moisturizes skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple

Cons

  • The sprayer may not work effectively
  • The scent may not be appealing to some
  • The consistency is thick and may not come out of the sprayer easily

Dr. Mercola Natural Tanning Oil is a great choice for those who are concerned about the quality of ingredients in their skincare products. It is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial fragrances or toxic ingredients. This tanning oil provides a natural and even tan that looks great on all skin types.

The hypoallergenic formula ensures that it does not cause any irritation or allergic reactions, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin. Additionally, it moisturizes the skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple, which is a great bonus for those who want to keep their skin healthy and hydrated.

While the sprayer may not work effectively, it is easy to pour the oil into your hand and apply it directly to your skin. The scent may not be appealing to some, but it is not overpowering and fades quickly. The consistency of the oil is thick and may not come out of the sprayer easily, but this is a minor issue that can be easily resolved.

In conclusion, Dr. Mercola Natural Tanning Oil is a great product that provides a natural and even tan while being gentle on the skin. It is a great choice for those who want to avoid artificial fragrances and toxic ingredients in their skincare products. Plus, with a full 90-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free!


Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil

Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil

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If you're looking for a natural tanning oil that develops into a deep, natural sun tan, Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil is the perfect choice for you. It's made with natural ingredients that are gentle on your skin, and its unique formula produces a captivating chocolate-like tint that enhances your tan and gives your skin a beautiful bronzed finish.

Pros

  • Develops into a deep, natural sun tan
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Non-greasy formula

Cons

  • Smaller size than expected
  • A little messy to use
  • Results may not be the best

We've tried Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil and we can confidently say that it's a great product for achieving a deep, natural-looking tan. The oil is lightweight and non-greasy, making it easy to apply and ensuring an even, streak-free finish. Its organic, skin-friendly formula is suitable for all skin types, and it's hydrating and moisturizing, leaving your skin feeling supple and smooth.

One standout feature of Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil is its captivating chocolate-like tint. This unique feature enhances your tan and gives your skin a beautiful bronzed finish that makes every skin tone glow beautifully. The oil is also made with natural ingredients, which makes it gentle on your skin and the environment.

However, one downside of this product is its smaller size than expected, which may not be ideal for those who are looking for a larger quantity. Additionally, the oil can be a little messy to use, so you may need to wipe the bottle down after every use. Lastly, the results may not be the best for everyone, as some users may not achieve the desired level of tan they're looking for.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a natural tanning oil that's gentle on your skin, produces a deep, natural sun tan, and gives your skin a beautiful bronzed finish, Bali Body Cacao Tanning Oil is a great choice for you. However, if you're looking for a larger quantity or have specific expectations for your tanning results, you may want to consider other options.


Isabella's Clearly GOLD

Isabella's Clearly GOLD

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We highly recommend Isabella's Clearly GOLD for anyone looking for a natural tanning oil that will leave your skin feeling moisturized and glowing.

Pros

  • Clearly GOLD is made with 100% natural plant-based ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to traditional tanning products.
  • The blend of natural oils in Clearly GOLD, including coconut oil and olive oil, help to moisturize and hydrate the skin, preventing dryness and irritation.
  • Clearly GOLD smells amazing, with a natural scent that will transport you to a peaceful and relaxing paradise.

Cons

  • The highly concentrated formula of Clearly GOLD can be difficult to apply evenly, especially for those new to tanning oils.
  • The natural ingredients in Clearly GOLD may not be as effective at accelerating tanning as some chemical-based tanning products.
  • The small travel size bottle may not be enough for those looking to use Clearly GOLD for extended periods of time.

If you're looking for a natural tanning oil that will leave your skin feeling moisturized and glowing, Isabella's Clearly GOLD is the perfect choice. The 100% natural plant-based ingredients, including coconut oil and olive oil, help to moisturize and hydrate the skin, preventing dryness and irritation. The natural scent of Clearly GOLD is also a major plus, providing a peaceful and relaxing experience while you tan.

However, the highly concentrated formula of Clearly GOLD can be difficult to apply evenly, especially for those new to tanning oils. Additionally, the natural ingredients in Clearly GOLD may not be as effective at accelerating tanning as some chemical-based tanning products. Finally, the small travel size bottle may not be enough for those looking to use Clearly GOLD for extended periods of time.

Overall, we highly recommend Isabella's Clearly GOLD for anyone looking for a natural tanning oil that will leave your skin feeling moisturized and glowing.


COCOSOLIS ALOHA Sun Tan & Body Oil

COCOSOLIS ALOHA Sun Tan & Body Oil

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We highly recommend purchasing the COCOSOLIS ALOHA Sun Tan & Body Oil if you want to achieve a stunning, deep tan while keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.

Pros

  • Provides a quick, smooth, and deep tan
  • Made with certified organic ingredients that help you get tanned quicker and prolong your glow
  • Can be used in the sun or in the sunbed, and can also be used as a body oil for dry skin

Cons

  • The natural and organic oils solidify below 25 degrees Celsius, which may require a 10-minute steam bath to liquify the oil
  • Contains no SPF protection, so it is important to start with a high SPF and cut down on the time spent on the sunbed to avoid burning
  • The pump can be hard to use and the oil may come out watery

This tanning oil is made with a variety of organic cold-pressed oils, including coconut oil, sweet almond oil, avocado oil, and vitamin E, which deeply hydrate and moisturize your skin. The oil also has a sweet coconut scent that is not overwhelming.

We found that the COCOSOLIS ALOHA Sun Tan & Body Oil helped us achieve a deep, chocolate tan without burning our skin. We also appreciated that the oil kept our skin silky smooth and deeply hydrated.

Overall, we highly recommend the COCOSOLIS ALOHA Sun Tan & Body Oil for anyone looking to achieve a healthy and radiant sun-kissed look.


Just Nutritive Tanning Indoor Oil

Just Nutritive Tanning Indoor Oil

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We highly recommend Just Nutritive Tanning Indoor Oil for anyone looking for a natural tanning oil that is both effective and gentle on the skin.

Pros

  • Achieve a fast, dark, and long-lasting golden tan
  • Keep your skin soft and radiant with Vitamin E and nutritive moisturizers
  • Level up your beauty regimen with skin-loving ingredients like Black Cumin Seed Oil

Cons

  • The oil has a strong smell that some may not enjoy
  • It needs to be applied generously before tanning bed sessions
  • The color may not be as dark as some users may prefer

This tanning oil is lightweight, non-greasy, and easy to apply. We love how it helps maintain our tan for longer than ever while also diminishing skin imperfections. The antioxidants and nutrients packed in this nutritive body serum help restore skin to radiant health, particularly after sun exposure and tanning. The natural oils can also help prevent tattoos from fading by keeping the skin moisturized.

We appreciate that this body tanning oil has no mineral oil and is made with the most potent nutritive moisturizers that give us more tone and moisturize our skin, leaving it soft and glowing. Black Cumin Seed Oil is packed with valuable skin-loving components like vitamins A, B, and C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and zinc, providing the necessary nutritive factors for skin recovery and repair.

Overall, Just Nutritive Tanning Indoor Oil is a top-notch product that delivers on its promises. It's handmade with love in the USA, cruelty-free, and chemical-free, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a natural tanning oil that is both effective and gentle on the skin.


b.tan Tanning Oil | Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray

b.tan Tanning Oil | Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray

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If you're looking for a natural tanning oil that will give you a dark and deep tan without spending too much time in the sun, b.tan Tanning Oil is the right choice for you.

Pros

  • Tan accelerating actives speed up the tanning process, which means less time in the sun for deeper, darker tanning results.
  • Packed with ultra moisturizing oils to keep your skin hydrated.
  • 100% vegan, free of nasties like parabens and cruelty-free.

Cons

  • The spray bottle can be a little irritating.
  • It doesn't seem to moisturize at all.
  • The smell might be too strong for some people.

We've tried b.tan Tanning Oil and we're happy to report that it's a great product. The tan accelerating actives really work, and we were able to get a dark and deep tan in a short amount of time. The oil is also packed with ultra moisturizing oils, which kept our skin hydrated and soft.

However, the spray bottle can be a little irritating, and we had to be careful not to spray too much product on our skin. We also noticed that the oil doesn't seem to moisturize at all, so we had to use a separate moisturizer after tanning. Lastly, the smell might be too strong for some people, so make sure to test it out before using it all over your body.

Overall, we think b.tan Tanning Oil is a great product for anyone who wants a natural and deep tan without spending too much time in the sun. It's also vegan and cruelty-free, which is a big plus.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best natural tanning oil, there are a few features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

SPF Level

If you plan to spend a lot of time in the sun, you'll want to look for a tanning oil with a high SPF level. This will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of sunburn. However, keep in mind that a higher SPF level may also mean that your skin will take longer to tan.

Ingredients

When it comes to natural tanning oils, you'll want to look for products that contain natural ingredients such as coconut oil, avocado oil, and jojoba oil. These ingredients can help nourish and moisturize your skin while you tan. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.

Application

Consider how easy the tanning oil is to apply. Look for products that come in a convenient spray or pump bottle for easy application. You may also want to consider the consistency of the oil. Some oils may be too thick or greasy, while others may be too thin and runny.

Price

Natural tanning oils can vary in price, so consider your budget when making a purchase. Keep in mind that a higher price tag may not necessarily mean a better product. Look for products that offer a good balance of quality and affordability.

By considering these factors, you can find the best natural tanning oil for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some natural tanning oils that can be made at home?

There are several natural tanning oils that can be made at home. Some of the most popular options include coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and carrot seed oil. These oils can be combined with other natural ingredients like cocoa powder or cinnamon to create a DIY tanning oil that is safe and effective.

What are the benefits of using tanning oils with SPF?

Tanning oils with SPF offer several benefits. They help protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Additionally, using a tanning oil with SPF can help you achieve a more even and longer-lasting tan.

What are some of the best self-tanning oils available?

Some of the best self-tanning oils available include St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Oil, Clarins Self Tanning Milky-Lotion, and Bali Body Self Tanning Oil. These products are formulated to provide a natural-looking tan without the harmful effects of UV exposure.

Is olive oil effective for tanning?

Olive oil can be effective for tanning, but it is important to use caution when using it. Olive oil has a low SPF and can increase your risk of sunburn and skin damage if not used properly. Additionally, it may not provide the same level of protection as other tanning oils with SPF.

What are some of the best tanning oils for pale skin?

Some of the best tanning oils for pale skin include Josie Maran Argan Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Oil, Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Dry Oil, and Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops. These products are designed to provide a natural-looking tan without causing irritation or dryness.

Is it safe to use coconut oil for tanning?

Coconut oil can be safe for tanning, but it is important to use caution and protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Coconut oil has a low SPF and may not provide adequate protection against sunburn and skin damage. It is recommended to use a tanning oil with SPF if you plan to spend extended periods of time in the sun.

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