7 Best Self Tanner for Men Worth Buying in 2025

As a guy who’s always wanted a healthy, sun-kissed glow without the actual sun damage, I’ve dabbled in my fair share of self-tanners over the years. Let’s be honest, finding the best self tanner for men can feel like a quest for the holy grail. We’re often looking for something that won’t leave us streaky, doesn’t smell like a chemical factory, and definitely won’t turn us Oompa Loompa orange. We want a natural-looking tan that makes people think we just spent a weekend outdoors, not an hour in the bathroom with a mitt.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion, Fair…	View on Amazon
	Bro Glo Self Tanner for The Boys – Starter Bundle…	View on Amazon
	Tanning Lotion Self Tanner – USA Made with Natural and…	View on Amazon
	Bro Glo Self Tanner for The Boys – Quick Application…	View on Amazon
	b.tan Dark Self Tanner Mousse | Get Tanned – Best,…	View on Amazon
	Bondi Sands Dark Self Tanning Foam | Lightweight,…	View on Amazon
	Self-Tanner for Men | King Glow – Water-Based, Fast-Drying…	View on Amazon

That’s why I put together this guide. I’ve sifted through a ton of options, focusing on products that genuinely deliver a believable bronze for men. In this article, you’ll find detailed reviews of seven top-rated self-tanners, covering everything from gradual lotions to quick-developing mousses. We’ll break down their features, pros, and cons, and help you figure out which one is the right fit for your skin type and tanning goals. Let’s get that healthy glow, fellas!

1. Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion, Fair…

If you’re new to the world of self-tanning or prefer a super subtle approach, the Jergens Natural Glow +Firming lotion is an excellent starting point. This isn’t a “get dark quick” product; instead, it slowly builds a beautiful, natural-looking light bronze tan over several days with consistent use. What’s great is that it doubles as a daily moisturizer, hydrating your skin while gradually adding color. Plus, it’s infused with beneficial ingredients like antioxidants and Coconut Water, aiming to boost moisturization for healthier-looking skin. It even contains collagen, elastin, and green tea to help reduce the appearance of cellulite within seven days, which is a nice bonus for those looking for firmer skin. You’ll also appreciate its light, fresh scent, a welcome change from some of the heavier, less pleasant smells often associated with self-tanners.

• Key Features:
  • Gradual, natural-looking color development
  • Firms skin with collagen, elastin, and green tea
  • Hydrates with antioxidants and coconut water
  • Light, fresh scent
  • Reduces cellulite appearance within 7 days
• Pros:
  • Easy, streak-free application due to gradual color
  • Doubles as a daily body lotion
  • Pleasant, fresh scent, unlike many self-tanners
  • Affordable and widely available
  • Also offers skin-firming benefits
• Cons:
  • Takes several days to see noticeable results
  • May not be dark enough for those seeking a deep tan
  • Fair to medium shade might not suit all skin tones for desired depth
• Best for: Beginners, those seeking a very subtle, buildable tan, and men looking for added skin-firming benefits.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate how foolproof this lotion is, making it ideal for self-tanner newbies. They often comment on the pleasant scent and the noticeable but natural-looking glow it provides, along with the added benefit of smoother, firmer-feeling skin over time.

2. Bro Glo Self Tanner for The Boys – Starter Bundle…

Bro Glo knows what guys want: a tan that looks good, is easy to apply, and doesn’t feel gross. This water-based and light mousse foam is designed specifically to avoid that heavy, greasy lotion feeling and unwanted breakouts. You’ll hardly notice it once applied, and it won’t have that tell-tale self-tanner smell. The “Starter Bundle” is particularly handy because it comes with a beefy hand mitt, making application a breeze and ensuring you get great coverage without staining your hands. The goal here is a natural-looking, subtle glow – you’ll look extra good, but people won’t quite put their finger on why. It’s fast-absorbing and non-sticky, allowing you to apply it, let it dry, and then get on with your day (or night) without worrying about bronze sheets or clothes.

• Key Features:
  • Water-based, light, and non-greasy mousse formula
  • Natural-looking, subtle glow – no orange hues
  • Fast-absorbing and non-sticky
  • Non-staining formula for clothes and sheets
  • Includes a tanning mitt for easy application
• Pros:
  • Specifically formulated for men’s skin concerns (light, non-greasy)
  • Doesn’t have a strong, unpleasant self-tanner smell
  • Comes with an application mitt for convenience and streak-free results
  • Dries quickly, preventing transfer to clothing or bedding
  • Delivers a truly natural, subtle tan
• Cons:
  • Mousse application requires a mitt for best results
  • Might be too subtle for those desiring a deep, dark tan quickly
  • Bundles can sometimes be slightly more expensive than stand-alone products
• Best for: Men new to mousse tanners, those who want a natural, subtle glow, and anyone looking for a complete starter kit with an application mitt.

User feedback summary: Guys rave about the natural look they achieve with Bro Glo, emphasizing that it truly avoids the orange tint. The quick-drying, non-greasy feel and the lack of a strong odor are frequently praised, making it a favorite for daily use. The included mitt is often highlighted as a huge plus for easy, even application.

3. Tanning Lotion Self Tanner – USA Made with Natural and…

For those who prioritize clean beauty and natural ingredients, this Tanning Lotion Self Tanner from Beauty by Earth is a fantastic choice. Made in the USA with organic aloe vera, shea butter, and botanical extracts, it’s free from harmful additives or dyes. This formula ensures you get a natural, sun-kissed glow without any orange hues, available in fair to medium and medium to dark shades to suit various skin types. One of its standout features is its versatility – it’s suitable for both face and body, making it easy to achieve a seamless, all-over tan. The application is designed to be simple, going on clear to prevent streaks and patches, meaning you can achieve a beautiful, even tan in no time without staining your sheets or clothes. Plus, it delivers long-lasting results, ensuring your gorgeous glow stays put for days.

• Key Features:
  • Natural, sun-kissed glow in fair to medium & medium to dark shades
  • Clean beauty formula with organic aloe vera, shea butter, and botanical extracts
  • Suitable for both face and body, including acne-prone skin
  • Easy, clear application without streaks or patches
  • Non-staining formula
  • Long-lasting tan results
  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
• Pros:
  • Formulated with natural and organic ingredients, great for sensitive skin
  • Versatile for full-body use, including the face
  • Achieves a genuinely natural, non-orange tan
  • Applies smoothly and evenly, reducing streaks
  • Offers good value with long-lasting results
  • Satisfaction guarantee adds peace of mind
• Cons:
  • Lotion format might take slightly longer to dry than mousse
  • Some users might prefer an immediate guide color
  • Premium ingredients can sometimes mean a slightly higher price point
• Best for: Men seeking a natural, organic self-tanner, those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, and users who want a versatile product for both face and body.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise this tanner for its truly natural color, often noting that it’s one of the few that delivers a “non-orange” tan. The clean ingredient list is a big draw, especially for those with sensitive skin, and many appreciate its ability to be used on both the face and body without issues.

4. Bro Glo Self Tanner for The Boys – Quick Application…

This specific Bro Glo variant focuses on quick application and delivering that sought-after natural look without the fuss. Like its Starter Bundle sibling, it’s a water-based and light mousse that completely avoids the heavy, greasy feeling and strong smells. The key promise here is “NO ORANGE HERE” – you’re getting a natural-looking fake tan, designed to mimic “summer sun in a bottle.” It’s incredibly fast-absorbing and non-greasy, which means you can apply it and quickly move on without that sticky residue. This formula is built for the guy who wants to look good without anyone quite knowing why; the glow is subtle yet noticeable. What’s more, it’s a non-staining formula, so you don’t have to worry about your clothes or sheets getting bronzed as the tanner develops.

• Key Features:
  • Water-based, light, fast-absorbing mousse
  • Guaranteed “no orange” natural-looking tan
  • Subtle glow that enhances your natural look
  • Non-greasy and non-sticky feel
  • Non-staining formula for clothes and sheets
• Pros:
  • Quick application and fast-drying formula
  • Specifically designed to avoid an orange tint
  • Light texture, perfect for men who dislike heavy lotions
  • Doesn’t transfer to clothing or bedding
  • Minimal to no self-tanner smell
• Cons:
  • Requires careful application with a mitt for best results (mitt not included in this particular variant)
  • May require multiple applications for a deeper tan
  • Still a mousse, which might be less familiar for lotion users
• Best for: Men who want a quick, natural-looking tan without any orange undertones, and those who prefer a lightweight, non-greasy mousse application.

User feedback summary: Reviewers consistently highlight the incredible natural color this Bro Glo mousse provides, stating it truly delivers on the “no orange” promise. Its fast-drying nature and lack of offensive smell are major benefits, making it a convenient choice for busy guys who want a quick glow.

5. b.tan Dark Self Tanner Mousse | Get Tanned – Best,…

If you’re after a deep, dark, and undeniable tan, the b.tan Dark Self Tanner Mousse is probably what you’re looking for. This product is specifically formulated for darkest results, making it perfect for anyone who wants more than just a subtle glow. The best part? It boasts a 1-hour cure time, meaning you can rinse off after just an hour for a noticeable tan, though leaving it on for 4+ hours will achieve even darker results. It’s designed to be simple, with no gimmicks and no fake tan smell, just a powerful bronzing effect. For the smoothest application, it’s recommended to apply a moisturizer to drier areas like elbows, knees, and ankles beforehand, and to use an application mitt. What’s more, b.tan is committed to ethical beauty; this mousse is vegan friendly and cruelty-free, and free of parabens, produced by tanning experts right here in the USA.

• Key Features:
  • Formulated for the deepest, darkest tan
  • Rapid 1-hour development time (leave on 4+ for darker)
  • No fake tan smell
  • Vegan friendly, cruelty-free, and paraben-free
  • Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients
• Pros:
  • Delivers a significantly darker tan than gradual options
  • Very fast development time, ideal for last-minute tanning
  • No unpleasant self-tanner odor
  • Ethical choice (vegan, cruelty-free)
  • Easy to blend with a mitt for streak-free results
• Cons:
  • Requires prior moisturization of dry areas for even application
  • Not suitable for those seeking a subtle or gradual tan
  • Dark color means any application mistakes will be more noticeable
  • Mousse format requires a mitt for best results
• Best for: Experienced self-tanners, men who desire a deep, dark tan quickly, and those who prioritize vegan and cruelty-free products.

User feedback summary: Users love the b.tan Dark Mousse for its ability to deliver a truly deep, dark tan without a hint of orange. The quick 1-hour development time is a frequently praised feature, making it convenient for fast results, and many appreciate that it lives up to its promise of being odor-free.

6. Bondi Sands Dark Self Tanning Foam | Lightweight,…

Hailing from Australia, Bondi Sands is a staple in the self-tanning world, and their Dark Self Tanning Foam is a prime example of why. This lightweight foam is incredibly simple to apply and consistently delivers a flawless, streak-free bronzed tan every time. The unique, salon-quality formula is enriched with aloe vera and coconut, which not only contribute to a natural, bronzed glow but also help to hydrate your skin. Application is straightforward: simply use a mitt and apply the foam in long, sweeping motions to clean, dry skin. A major benefit of this foam is how quickly it dries – in seconds, actually – ensuring you won’t feel sticky or wait ages before dressing. You can typically wash off the guide color after just one hour for a sun-kissed look, or leave it on longer for a deeper shade.

• Key Features:
  • Lightweight foam formula
  • Simple, streak-free application
  • Enriched with aloe vera and coconut for hydration
  • Dries in seconds to a natural, flawless tan
  • Wash off after one hour for results
• Pros:
  • Achieves a beautiful, natural dark tan
  • Extremely fast-drying, no sticky residue
  • Easy to apply with a mitt for even coverage
  • Nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and coconut
  • Can customize depth of tan based on development time
• Cons:
  • Foam format requires an application mitt (not included)
  • Dark shade might be too intense for very fair skin as a first-timer
  • Has a slight “tanner” smell, though less offensive than some
• Best for: Men seeking a reliable, dark, and quick-drying self-tanning foam, and those who appreciate hydrating ingredients in their tanner.

User feedback summary: Bondi Sands consistently receives high marks for its beautiful, natural dark tan that avoids any orange tones. Users love how quickly it dries and how easy it is to apply for a streak-free finish, often citing it as their go-to for a deep, even glow.

7. Self-Tanner for Men | King Glow – Water-Based, Fast-Drying…

King Glow is another fantastic option specifically designed for men, focusing on a no-fuss, high-quality tanning experience. This water-based, fast-absorbing, lightweight mousse ensures you won’t feel like you’ve covered yourself in “goop.” The primary goal of King Glow is to deliver a natural bronze that looks like you’ve just returned from a beach vacation, never orange. It’s engineered to be odor-free, so you can enjoy your glow without any unpleasant smells that often accompany self-tanners. Furthermore, King Glow features a non-staining formula, meaning your clothes and sheets will stay clean while you wake up with a regal glow. It’s all about achieving a confident, sun-kissed look without any of the typical self-tanner downsides.

• Key Features:
  • Lightweight, non-sticky, fast-absorbing mousse
  • Delivers a natural bronze, “never orange”
  • Completely odor-free
  • Non-staining formula for clothes and sheets
  • Water-based for a clean feel
• Pros:
  • Specifically formulated to meet men’s preferences (light, no smell)
  • Achieves a very natural, believable tan
  • Truly odor-free, a huge plus for many users
  • Dries quickly and doesn’t transfer to fabrics
  • Easy to apply mousse texture
• Cons:
  • Requires an application mitt for best results (mitt not included)
  • Might be a newer brand, so fewer long-term reviews than established names
  • Focuses on natural bronze, might not be for those seeking extreme darkness
• Best for: Men who prioritize an odor-free and non-staining self-tanner, and those wanting a natural, healthy glow that looks authentic.

User feedback summary: Users are very impressed with King Glow’s completely odor-free experience, a major selling point for many men. The natural, non-orange color and the non-staining formula also receive high praise, solidifying its reputation as a reliable self-tanner for a confident look.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re looking for the best self tanner for men, it really boils down to your specific needs and preferences. If ease of use and a subtle, buildable tan are your top priorities, a gradual lotion like Jergens Natural Glow +Firming is an excellent choice. You apply it like a regular moisturizer, making it almost foolproof, and the firming benefits are a nice bonus.

For guys who want a more immediate and noticeable tan without the wait, the mousses are generally the way to go. Brands like Bro Glo, b.tan, Bondi Sands, and King Glow all offer mousse formulas. If a truly deep, dark tan is what you’re after, b.tan Dark Self Tanner Mousse or Bondi Sands Dark Self Tanning Foam are your strongest contenders, often developing significant color within a few hours. b.tan stands out for its 1-hour development time for initial results.

If you’re concerned about that infamous “self-tanner smell”, options like Bro Glo and King Glow make a point of being either low-odor or completely odor-free, which is a massive plus for many. These are also great if you want a lightweight, non-greasy feel that absorbs quickly, avoiding any sticky residue.

For the environmentally conscious or those with sensitive skin, the Tanning Lotion Self Tanner from Beauty by Earth is a standout. Its natural and organic ingredients, coupled with its suitability for both face and body, make it a versatile and gentle option. It also delivers a very natural, non-orange glow, which is crucial.

Finally, if you’re a beginner and want to ensure a streak-free application right from the start, Bro Glo Self Tanner for The Boys – Starter Bundle is a smart pick because it includes an application mitt, making the process much smoother and helping you avoid stained palms.

Final Verdict

Picking the “best” self tanner is incredibly personal, but after diving deep into these options, I can confidently say there’s a fantastic choice for every guy out there.

If you’re new to self-tanning or prefer a fuss-free, gradual approach that also offers skin benefits, the Jergens Natural Glow +Firming Self Tanner is your safest bet. It’s incredibly forgiving and builds a natural glow over time.

For the man who wants a quick, natural-looking tan without any orange undertones or strong odors, both Bro Glo (either bundle or quick application) and King Glow are exceptional. They hit all the marks for a comfortable, reliable mousse experience, with King Glow particularly excelling on the odor-free front.

If you’re seeking a deep, dramatic tan that develops fast, you can’t go wrong with b.tan Dark Self Tanner Mousse or Bondi Sands Dark Self Tanning Foam. These are for the guys who know what they want and want it quickly.

And for those who prioritize clean ingredients and a versatile product for both face and body, the Tanning Lotion Self Tanner from Beauty by Earth offers an impressive, natural-looking tan that feels good on your skin.

Ultimately, the best self tanner for men is the one that fits seamlessly into your routine, delivers the shade you desire, and leaves you feeling confident and looking naturally bronzed. No matter your preference, one of these top contenders is sure to help you achieve that perfect glow.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: How do I prepare my skin before applying the best self tanner for men?
A: Preparation is key to a streak-free tan! Start by exfoliating your entire body (pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles) 24 hours before applying. Shave or wax at least 24 hours prior to allow your pores to close. On the day of application, ensure your skin is clean, dry, and free of any lotions, deodorants, or perfumes.

Q2: How do I avoid streaks when applying self-tanner?
A: To avoid streaks, apply your chosen best self tanner for men to clean, dry, and exfoliated skin. Use an application mitt for mousses and foams, applying in circular motions. Work in sections, starting from your legs and moving upwards. Use a very small amount on drier areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Blend carefully, especially around wrists and ankles.

Q3: How long does self-tanner last, and how can I make it last longer?
A: Most self-tanners last between 5-7 days, depending on your skin type, how well you prepared, and how you maintain it. To extend your tan, moisturize daily (after the initial rinse), avoid harsh scrubbing or long hot baths, and pat your skin dry after showering instead of rubbing. Some gradual self-tanners like Jergens can be used daily to maintain the color.

Q4: Can men use any self-tanner, or are there specific ones for men?
A: Absolutely, men can use any self-tanner! However, products marketed as the best self tanner for men, like Bro Glo or King Glow, are often formulated with specific male preferences in mind: lighter textures, less floral scents, and a focus on natural-looking rather than overly dramatic results. Many also address common male concerns like non-greasy feel and avoiding body hair discoloration.

Q5: How do I choose the right shade of self-tanner for my skin tone?
A: If you’re fair-skinned or new to self-tanning, start with a “light to medium” or gradual formula to avoid an unnatural look. If you have a naturally olive or medium skin tone, you can opt for “medium to dark” shades. If you desire a very deep tan, look for products specifically labeled “dark” or “extra dark” like b.tan or Bondi Sands. It’s always safer to start lighter and build up.

Q6: What’s the difference between self-tanner lotion, mousse, and foam?
A:
* Lotions (like Jergens): Tend to be gradual, hydrating, and develop color slowly over several days. They’re great for beginners and for maintaining a tan.
* Mousses/Foams (like Bro Glo, b.tan, Bondi Sands, King Glow): These are lightweight, dry quickly, and usually provide more immediate and darker results. They often have a guide color, making them easier to apply evenly. They typically require an application mitt.
Choosing the best self tanner for men often comes down to personal preference for texture and desired speed/depth of tan.

Q7: Can self-tanner protect me from the sun?
A: No, self-tanner offers absolutely no protection from the sun’s UV rays. The color comes from a chemical reaction on the skin’s surface, not from melanin production. You still need to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an adequate SPF whenever you’re exposed to the sun.

Q8: How do I remove self-tanner if I make a mistake or want a fresh start?
A: If you notice a streak or patch shortly after application, you can gently buff it away with a damp cloth or a tanning eraser product. For a full removal or to lighten an older tan, exfoliate your skin with a scrub or an exfoliating mitt. Some people find success with lemon juice, baking soda paste, or specific self-tan removers that break down the DHA.