There is nothing quite like a healthy, golden glow to boost your confidence, but the tell-tale smell that often comes with self-tanning can be a real drawback. That distinctive ‘biscuit’ aroma can linger on skin and clothes, undermining an otherwise flawless, sun-kissed look.
Fortunately, it is possible to achieve a beautiful, believable tan without that giveaway scent. We create our certified organic and natural self tan products with sensitive skin in mind, using innovative formulas that deliver a streak-free finish and not even a hint of that giveaway scent!
At a glance
- Best for a completely scent-free glow: Age Defy+ Liquid Gold Tanning Drops
- Best for a classic lotion application with natural scent: Self Tan Lotion
- Best for tanning with sun protection and natural scent: Glow & Protect SPF30
What causes the fake tan smell?
The characteristic smell from self-tanning products occurs due to a chemical reaction. The active tanning ingredient, Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), interacts with the amino acids in the surface layer of your skin. This process, which creates the golden colour, releases specific compounds that produce the recognisable aroma.
The intensity of the smell can depend on the quality and concentration of the DHA used, as well as the other ingredients in the formula. Some formulations use synthetic fragrances to try and mask this scent, but this can introduce other potential irritants for sensitive skin.
Why choose Green People?
For over 25 years, we have specialised in creating certified organic beauty products that are gentle on sensitive skin. Our approach to self tanning is no different.
Instead of relying on synthetic perfumes to cover the DHA scent, we focus on high-quality, natural ingredients and sophisticated formulas. You will find our natural and organic self tan products are either completely scent-free or feature a subtle, pleasant aroma from natural plant extracts and oils - and they give a lovely natural glow too.
"When I started Green People, my mission was to create truly gentle products for my daughter's sensitive skin. That meant avoiding synthetic fragrances and other ingredients that can cause irritation, focussing instead on the power of pure, organic botanicals."
- Charlotte Vøhtz, Founder of Green People
Best for a customisable, scent-free glow
For those who want to avoid scent entirely, you need to try our natural and organic tanning drops. Made without essential oils or artificial fragrance, you can create your glow without the slightest hint of fake tan smell.
Our certified organic Age Defy+ Liquid Gold Tanning Drops are designed to be mixed with your favourite moisturiser or serum.
They let you build a gradual tan from a subtle hint of sun to a deeper bronze, just by adjusting the number of drops you use. The fluid is lightweight and blends seamlessly, so you can easily incorporate it into your existing skin care routine for face and body.
Clinically proven to be kind to sensitive skin, this dermatologically tested formula allows you to achieve a radiant glow without any scent or irritation.
Age Defy+ Liquid Gold Tanning Drops 30ml
Glow from head to toe with our scent-free certified organic tanning drops402,00 kr
★★★★★
“These Tanning Drops are fab - always look natural and you can decide how much colour you want. No more sad looking skin!”
KATY H · Verified Buyer
Reviewing: Age Defy+ Liquid Gold Tanning Drops 30ml
See this product now →Best for a classic, naturally scented lotion
If you prefer the ritual of applying a traditional tanning lotion, this is the one for you. Our certified organic Self Tan Lotion feels more like a luxurious body moisturiser than a typical self tan. It has a rich, creamy texture that smooths over the skin effortlessly, absorbing beautifully without stickiness.
What you will notice first is what is missing: the biscuity smell. Instead, a light, refreshing aroma from Sandalwood and Vetivert makes the application a pleasure. You will then build a gentle, streak-free golden tan over a few hours.
This dermatologically tested formula is perfect for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin who find other self tanners can cause discomfort. It leaves skin feeling soft, hydrated and beautifully sun-kissed.
Self Tan Lotion 150ml
Tan easily at home with this natural and organic self tan lotion287,00 kr
★★★★★
“This is an extremely good self tan lotion. No streaks and has a natural colour and leaves the skin feeling soft. I really recommend giving it a try.”
Rosemary D · Verified Buyer
Reviewing: Self Tan Lotion 150ml
See this product now →Best for a gradual tan with sun protection
Simply your morning routine by combining your sun protection, moisturiser and gradual tanner into one easy step. That is exactly what our Glow & Protect SPF30 offers. It is an intelligent 3-in-1 lotion that looks after your skin while building a natural-looking glow.
This is the perfect choice for the weeks leading up to a holiday, or for regular use for a continued glow. It provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection while a gentle tanning active develops a natural colour over several applications.
The texture is smooth and hydrating, sinking in without leaving any white cast or sticky residue. It has a lovely, natural scent and helps to keep your skin soft and protected, perfect for maintaining a light, healthy tan throughout the sunnier months.
Glow & Protect SPF30 150ml
Glow, hydrate and protect in one intelligent step364,00 kr
★★★★★
“A very special suncream that protects and gives one a gentle bronze glow at the same time. This is now my favourite suncream.”
Rosemary D · Verified Buyer
Reviewing: Glow & Protect SPF30 150ml
See this product now →We hope this guide helps you find the best self tan for your needs. If you need any more help or advice, our friendly UK customer care team are happy to help on 01403 740350 or on social @GreenPeopleUK.
MEET CHARLOTTE, FOUNDER OF GREEN PEOPLE
Charlotte Vøhtz, founder of Green People, has 25+ years of experience in the natural and organic beauty industry.
A recognised leader in the field of organic beauty, Charlotte helped inform the UK's first organic beauty standards and was voted the People's Choice in the 2023 list of Who's Who in Natural Beauty.
A published author, she wrote the organic beauty bible 'Naturally Gorgeous'. Previously, she qualified as a nurse and spent over 10 years working in pharmaceuticals.
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