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Best Sunless Tanner Award: Lavera
By metropolitanmama | October 4, 2008
When I start to feel the beauty blahs, there’s nothing like a nice tan to make me feel radiant. I love that just-spent-a-week-in-the-sun look…balmy and golden and sparkling.
That said, I am well aware of the dangers of skin cancer and the havoc that the sun’s rays can play on the appearance of my skin. And thus I’m not ashamed to rub or spray on my tan.
BUT I don’t particularly like trying new sunless tanners. I always do so with a bit of hesitation and trepidation, dreading the proverbial orange “fake bake.” So when I find a good one, I tend to stick with it.
I tried Lavera Sunless Tan this summer after reading about it in Sophie Uliano’s Gorgeously Green, who said that the self-tanner “contains only the good stuff, smells fantastic, and is as streak-free as any I’ve found.” I have to concur with her. Lavera is a wonderful find in the world of skincare products. Made from organic soy and sugar extracts, the tanner is easy to apply and creates a nice tan in 1-2 hours. The color is natural looking and doesn’t smell as “obvious” or as “chemically” as other contemporary brands (I wouldn’t say it “smells fantastic…”, but it’s an improvement for sure…). At $27.50 for a 5.0 FL.OZ bottle, it’s a bit on the expensive side, but I think the price tag is worth it for the more natural ingredients.
I’d also love to try Lavera’s complimentary product - Faces Summer Glow - which “uses only pure, natural ingredients to deliver a streak-free, sun-kissed glow.” [You can actually use Lavera Sunless Tan on your face too, but this product is a little less concentrated so you don't have to worry about overkill in the most obvious place].
I tried this product prior to my pregnancy, but - if you’re a pregnant reader out there - you might be wondering, “is it safe to use a self-tanner during pregnancy?” I googled that question and Dr. DiLeo says that the jury is still out on that question, so I probably will avoid them for the next 5 months. As they say, better safe than sorry…
YOUR TURN: Do you use self-tanner? If so, what is your favorite brand?
WIN IT! One winner will receive a 5.0 FL.OZ bottle of Lavera Sunless Tan. To enter, leave a comment on this post prior to Sunday, October 12 at midnight (don’t forget to follow the rules). * Winner must provide a U.S. mailing address.
*UPDATE* The winner is #6 ab. Congratulations!
Topics: beauty/cosmetics, contests |
October 4th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
I’ve used it once, but I had dry skin on my ankles and knees. I’ll just let you imagine what my legs looked like!
October 4th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
I haved never tried a self tanner
October 5th, 2008 at 4:06 am
I tried sunless tanner as a teenager. It was called QT and I was ORANGE! Not the most attractive look I’ve sported. I’d love to try sunless tanning again hopefully with better results.
October 5th, 2008 at 4:46 am
I use Jergens body lotion with tanning in it several times a week. It’s not like the old QT that turned your skin orange years ago.
October 5th, 2008 at 5:41 am
I have never used a self tanner before, but might try one.
October 5th, 2008 at 5:51 am
I have tried self tanners in the past, but none that I loved enough to stick with. I always felt like they didn’t do enough or else it ended up looking too fake or of course, the dredded orange. There have been one or two things I’ve used that are meant to stay on just for the day and those have workwed well enough, but the cost vs the amount of time it stays on - I could never justify it. I wish I could find a self tanner I love! I tanned so much in high school and know the damage I did to my skin. I still love the look of tan, but want to be able to have it safely! I especially have never fond any kind of self tanner for my face that didn’t seem to end up making my skin feel much too oily. All that to say - this sounds like a potentially great option. Thank you for the chance to win!
October 5th, 2008 at 6:07 am
I havent tried self tanners since I was a teenager and had very bad results, I would love to try this and see how it works, thanks for the great giveaway
October 5th, 2008 at 6:14 am
Once and it didn’t turn out good.
October 5th, 2008 at 7:05 am
I have not tried one in a very long time,Iam sure that they make them better now days.The one I tried many years ago turned me into a pumkin.
October 5th, 2008 at 7:25 am
The only sunless tanner I’ve ever tried is one of those spray-on tans you can get at tanning salons. I did it the day before our wedding and was pleased with the results, but they’re also more expensive than the apply-yourself stuff. Over the past few years I’ve become much more wary of the sun (and, consequently, much more albino), so I’d love to try a sunless tanner that doesn’t make me streaky or orange. Thanks!
October 5th, 2008 at 7:46 am
I have not tried a sunless tanner. Would love to try it though.
October 5th, 2008 at 7:54 am
I’ve tried a number of different self tanners and the one I found to like this summer was Neutrogena’s, I got it at Walmart. I looked so tan, it was a great feeling without having the sun damaging guilt!
I would LOVE to try this one though! Thanks for the great giveaway!
October 5th, 2008 at 8:09 am
I like Bliss’s self tanner…it is kind of messy to apply but it is looks natural and looks amazing for a couple of days!
October 5th, 2008 at 9:12 am
I have never used a self-tanner, but would like to try one. Thanks for offering this prize.
October 5th, 2008 at 9:19 am
I haven’t tried one for years; I know they’re a lot better than they used to be. I’d love to try this one - thank you!
October 5th, 2008 at 9:23 am
I’ve never tried one, but would like to! thanks for the review and contest.
October 5th, 2008 at 9:33 am
my white bosy needs some fake sun!
October 5th, 2008 at 9:34 am
my white body needs some fake sun!
October 5th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Never used one but I need one!
October 5th, 2008 at 10:13 am
i have never tried them but i would live to try this one!
thanks!
moore.g@insideconnect.net
October 5th, 2008 at 10:20 am
So far my favorite has been Made in the Shade from Arbonne.
October 5th, 2008 at 10:58 am
haven’t tried tet but would love to
October 5th, 2008 at 11:07 am
i like to use self-tanner in the winter when i am feeling so pale. i occasionally use jergans but i would love to try this!
October 5th, 2008 at 11:27 am
i love tanners & can’t wait to try this one.
October 5th, 2008 at 11:33 am
I have used several different brands over the years and have yet to find one I’m really satisfied with enough to call a favorite. I would love to try this one!
October 5th, 2008 at 11:34 am
Haven’t tried any but would like to.
October 5th, 2008 at 11:51 am
I’ve used Jergens
gkstratos@yahoo.com
October 5th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
I’ve never used any sunless tanner, but I definitely need to!! LOL!! I am SOOOOOO pale!
October 5th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
I haven’t because I’m afraid I will be streaky.
October 5th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
never tried it but would/will one of these days
October 5th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
I like sunless tanners in the summertime to get rid of the winter paleness before wearing skirts or shorts. I try to stay out of the sun as much as possible so it is great to have the option of a sunless tanner. My only complaint is that many of the sunless tanners I have tried smell a bit funky.
October 5th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
I used Olay tanning mousturizer and I must be allergic to it because my face broke out in the worst way.
October 5th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Have never tried a self-tanner but desperately need to!
Would love to try this!
Thanks
October 5th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
I have never tried it. I would love to though.
October 5th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
I love sunless tanner. I don’t really ever let myself tan from the sun anymore, especially on my face. I use Neutrogenas, the kind that makes you smell like grapefruits. it really does a good job and doesn’t make your face breakout either! But I am always looking to UPGRADE!!
thanks for the chance!
October 5th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
I haven’t used a tanner, but I have always wanted to try one
October 5th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
My favorite so far is Jergens. I would really like to try this one.
October 5th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
I have tried the Jergen’s Natural Glow once before and I liked it. I would love to try this brand.Thanks for the great giveaway!
October 5th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
I’ve never used a sunless tanner, but with my glowing white skin, I’d love to give this a try!
October 5th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
would love to spray- yes I have expienced the orange splotches
October 5th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
never tried a sunless tanner
October 5th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
I use Loreal Sublime Glow and I love it.
October 5th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
I’ve tried jergans and olay facial with suntanner.
October 5th, 2008 at 7:34 pm
I had a sample once of Jergens and liked that.
October 5th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
I really like TanTowel.
October 5th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
I have never used a sunless tanner but I’m thinking about trying it this winter. I have lost 20 lbs since July and can finally start to show off some skin.
agsweeps [@] hotmail [.] com
Thanks!!
October 5th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
used it when i was younger but cant remember brand. BUt havent used it in many years.
October 5th, 2008 at 10:19 pm
I like the new “glows” out there. In the past I had an EXTREMELY bad experience with a sunless tanner. I think it was Frankie Avalon brand. Anyhow I built up this great “tan” and then went to the beach with a huge group from our church for an outreach. Well, something in the water seemed to trigger the tan to turn SCREAMING ORANGE. And then the sand rubbed off all the tan from my feet and ankles. So I was bright orange with white feet and ankles. So many people were laughing at me, I was sooooooo embarrassed. I wanted to hide and I rode with other people there so I could not leave. Ugh! LOL!
October 5th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
I have olive skin and tan really easily so I don’t use a sunless tanner but my BF is white as can be and would LOVE this! : )
October 5th, 2008 at 11:08 pm
Ive tried a few many years ago that made me orange and blotchy and then more recently tried the Jergens self tanning lotions and they are okay, until i noticed it rubs off when you get out of the shower. haha.
but I live in seattle, so its pretty hard to get a tan, so we do what we can.
October 6th, 2008 at 2:56 am
Living with snow six months out of the year, I could use a tan in a bottle.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:55 am
i like jergens natural glow
haven’t tried this one
October 6th, 2008 at 5:01 am
I use self tanners, but it’s hard to find a good one. Would like to try this one. Please count me in. Thanks!!
October 6th, 2008 at 5:04 am
I’ve never used a self-tanner due to the fear of turning orange or streaks showing. I have been waiting for a wonderful review to change my mind! Thanks!
October 6th, 2008 at 5:16 am
I have used Dove but it doesn’t last very long.
October 6th, 2008 at 5:51 am
havent tried a self tanner yet
October 6th, 2008 at 6:50 am
I use Avon’s sunless tanner
October 6th, 2008 at 7:24 am
It’s been awhile since I tried a self-tanner.
October 6th, 2008 at 7:44 am
I did use one a few times this summer, I really like the Coppertone brand. It leaves a natural looking color.
October 6th, 2008 at 8:01 am
I use lancome’s spray tan. I use it almost every day after I shower. Love it.
October 6th, 2008 at 8:09 am
I have never tried self tanning lotion yet.
October 6th, 2008 at 8:23 am
I haven’t used any, but this looks promising.
October 6th, 2008 at 8:58 am
I have never used on but would like to try it
October 6th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Haven’t used any yet, so this could be a first.
October 6th, 2008 at 9:33 am
i never have ~ but really need 2
October 6th, 2008 at 9:59 am
I have used Jergens, a while ago, it streaked alittle
October 6th, 2008 at 11:33 am
I’ve tried it several times with no success. I’ve used expensive and cheap brands and have found all of them streak or come off unevenly and leave me blochy. I’d love to find one that works great. I have fair skin and my legs are the topic of many jokes at summer picnics because they’re so pasty. I’ve concluded I’d rather be pasty than orange streaked.
October 6th, 2008 at 11:34 am
I have never tried a self tanner because I am also worried about the orange look or would I mess it up on the application. I would love to give this a try.
October 6th, 2008 at 11:35 am
I forgot to add - I would love to try this to give me an uplift in the middle of winter and when I am sick of snow for 6 months and temperature that barley reach zero!
October 6th, 2008 at 11:37 am
i don’t but i need to use one
October 6th, 2008 at 12:08 pm
Like previous comments, I’ve also used Jergens Natural Glow. I actually stopped using it becuase it made my arm hair darker! Which I just was *not* going to have. So, I use it on my legs a few days before I need to show them, but no where else. I’ve been scared to try a different kind, but would be willing to try one that is good for free!
October 6th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Good gift for someone.
October 6th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
While I haven’t done this, it is interesting to think about.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
I have used it in the past- I THINK it was Loreal.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
I have neutrogena right now…but i have not found a product that works flawlessly.
October 6th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
I love sunless tanner
October 6th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
no i don’t.
October 6th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
neutrogena
October 6th, 2008 at 7:30 pm
I used one years ago when they first came out and looked like a striped lady. It was awful.
I would love to find one that works well.
Thank you for the nice and sunny giveaway.
October 6th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
i have all ways wanted to give these tanners a try
October 6th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
I would love to try this.
janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
October 6th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
I’m so pale and would love a little bit of sun to help in this dreary Seattle like conditions!
October 7th, 2008 at 4:34 am
so far i have not found one that either gives me an “orange”glow
or does not streak ! would love to win and see if it is as good as it claimes 
thanx!
October 7th, 2008 at 6:38 am
I’ve not tried it yet
October 7th, 2008 at 6:59 am
I envy the look but my one experience with self-tanners was a disaster.
October 7th, 2008 at 7:47 am
I use Aveeno gradual tanner lotion
October 7th, 2008 at 9:03 am
i have never tried sunless tanner, but people always ask if i use it on my arms cus they are supertan. i get that from bike riding!
October 7th, 2008 at 9:24 am
I’ve been using Bath and Body Works but I don’t like the smell.
October 7th, 2008 at 10:17 am
Loreal Sublime Bronze
October 7th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
I have used it in the past, but not for very long…Im not even good at putting on lotion on a regular basis. I have liked Neutrogena…
October 7th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
I’m a ghostly white redhead, I have to use self tanner just to be seen!
October 7th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
I never tried one because I would see kids in my class with orange skin thinking they looked nice and tanned. I think not! I would give this a try. Thank you!
October 7th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Well, as opposed to some people that are just to win — I will actually use this on myself!! I LOVE sunless tanner and L’Oreal Sunless Tanner is the best I’ve used (so far!). I love the spray on kind especially since my hands stay away from getting a tan as well.
October 8th, 2008 at 6:07 am
Since I’m a redhead, think Nicole Kidman’s complexion, I don’t tan. I’ve used tanners before; the one I’m currently using is from Jergens. It works pretty well.
October 8th, 2008 at 6:46 am
Yes
THANK YOU GOD BLESS
October 8th, 2008 at 8:08 am
I like this, Hope I win
October 8th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
I have tried self tanners but they always make me orange. So I would to try this one. Thanks for the giveaway.
October 8th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
Wow, I’d lovvvve to win this!!!
October 9th, 2008 at 12:51 pm
I use self tanners for special occasions. I have Abrionne (not to be confused with Arbonne) self tanner and it worked beautifully! No streaks, no ungodly orange color, and no awful after odor! It is applied with a brush (which it came with) and I really like the way it worked. I have had it a couple of years now so I think it is probably not “fresh” anymore. I would love to try the Lavera Sunless Tan product. I have a wedding to go to in November down south and can use this for it!
October 9th, 2008 at 6:55 pm
The Self-tanners I’ve tried have been either too greasy or streaky. If this one works as well as you say it does, I would love to try it.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
have never tried a self tanner
October 9th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
I’ve never tried self tanner, I’ve always been too scared. But there is a first time for everything.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
I haven’t tried any self tanners since I was in my teens many years ago. It made me orange and I haven’t tried any since. This sounds great and I would love to try it. Thanks!
braaisjo at gmail dot com
October 10th, 2008 at 6:25 pm
I would love to have this safe tan!
October 11th, 2008 at 2:55 am
I have tried the Jergens daily one that gets progressively darker each day and it does work but every time I stopped using it, it faded in a really funny patchy way. Also, I seem to have trouble with shaving and tanners. I shave daily and I don’t think self-tanners like that.
October 11th, 2008 at 6:45 am
I have never use a self-tanner but would like to.
October 11th, 2008 at 9:51 am
Never have but I sure would love to try some!
October 11th, 2008 at 9:57 am
I have used a sunless tanner in the past. I mostly used Neutrogena products but also have used the Jergens Healthy Glow moisturizers.
October 11th, 2008 at 10:19 am
I tried self tanner many years ago, which of course made my hands stained. I’d like to try it again, since I never have time to lay out in the real sun like I did back in the good old days…
October 11th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
I like Jergens because it is creamy and you only see a hint of a tan at a time. I would love to try because I am very pale, I don’t go lay in the sun . Count me in to win
October 11th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
I just use the Jergens brand but haven’t seen much tanning mostly moisturising! Thanks!
October 11th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
I have not been a self-tanner for a while.
October 11th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
I haven’t had a tan in a while…except on my exposed arms during my power walks. I really should cover those up. But, anyway, I haven’t used anything since the disastrous QT incident in junior high. Ahh, memories.
October 11th, 2008 at 4:01 pm
I love self-tanner and I love Arbonne!
October 11th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
I’ve never tried self tanner before as I’m afraid that it would come on streaky.
October 11th, 2008 at 8:19 pm
I use Jergen’s Natural Glow…it works pretty well…but I’d really love to try lavera!
October 11th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
I use Neutrogena, but would love to try this one!
October 11th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
I have never used a self tanner, Im scared too, I dont want to be orange. But I havent been able to tan in a while, its too expensive…so I would try it!! cause Im looking pasty!
October 11th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
I’ve tried self-tanner a few times before and the only one that didn’t leave me orange was Neutrogena! I’d love to try this product and see if I can get even better results!
October 11th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
I really need this tanner lol I really would love to try a self tanner just never really know which one would be best. I am as white as a vampire lol
Tara
cloudspassby78 (at) yahoo (dot) com
October 12th, 2008 at 2:28 am
Australian Gold is good.
October 12th, 2008 at 8:01 am
i don’t use a self tanner because i am afraid they will make me orange, but i am willing to give this one a try.
October 12th, 2008 at 8:09 am
I’ve never used a sunless tanner.
October 12th, 2008 at 8:48 am
i tried one once but i looked like a jack o lantern..
October 12th, 2008 at 10:20 am
I’ve never tried a self tanner
October 12th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
I use self tanner on occasion..but I have always wanted to try this brand…thanks for the fab contest.
October 12th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
I’ve never tried one because I worried it would look fake. I’ve always wanted to try a good one though.
October 12th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
This is a good topic to discuss, as it is very hard to find a decent sunless tanning product!!
I have found that I waste a lot of money on sunless suntan products that I buy, hate and either sit in my cabinet forever, or get thrown away!
It is nice you have tried Lavera and have given it a thumbs up! We as consumers appreciate it! It saves us time and money!!
I like that you said it contains only the good stuff, smells fantastic, and is as streak-free! You went on to say: “Lavera is a wonderful find in the world of skincare products.” “Made from organic soy and sugar extracts, the tanner is easy to apply and creates a nice tan in 1-2 hours.” “The color is natural looking and doesn’t smell as “obviously chemical as some brands!”
I would also someday like to try Lavera’s complimentary product - Faces Summer Glow! It sounds good too! I was also impressed that you had “googled” sunless suntanning use in pregnant women, and mentioned in your post what you found! Good job for the “complete review”!
Thank you for the “heads up” on Lavera! I would love to try LAVERA!!
baileybobby6@hotmail(dot)com
October 12th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
I have never tried sunless tanner,but would love to try it!
October 12th, 2008 at 4:14 pm
I’ve used it once.
October 12th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Ive tried many and still looking for the best.
Would love to try Lavera! Neutrogena and Jergens have worked the best so far for my very pale skin.
October 12th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
I have only used the self tanners in lotions because I don’t want to streak!
October 12th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
i use coppertone fake tan and i do like it i mix it with lotion so it looks more natural
October 12th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
I have tried Banana Boat and it worked o.k.
October 12th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
I haven’t tried one in a long time, but I sure would like to try this one! Thank you so much for the great giveaway!
October 12th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
coppertone have used..was ok…still not as good as i wanted.thanks for the opp
October 12th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
I do use a sun tanner.I think Clarins is the best,
but it is expensive.Right now im using Jergens.
I would love to try this brand,I have not heard of it.Please enter me and thanks for the giveaway
October 12th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
Ni,
I don’t use it.
October 12th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
I don’t currently use self-tanner.