Gradual Self Tanning Lotion
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This gradual self tanning lotion gives you a natural-looking glow without the typical self-tanner experience. MAKAI Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion was formulated with one goal in mind: creating beautiful, seamless color without the heavy, sticky, overly bronzed feel often associated with self tanner.
Our lower-DHA blend is designed to develop gradual color while helping minimize the strong developing odor that can come with higher levels of DHA. We also keep the bronzer light, so your skin looks naturally sun-kissed rather than overly dark or brassy while your color develops.
The result is a more comfortable self-tanning experience with a natural-looking finish that feels like your skin, just better, because we believe a good self tan shouldn't look, feel, or smell like you're wearing self tanner.
The details:
- Size: 200 ml (6.8 fl oz)
- Color: A subtle glow on day 1 and noticeable color by days 2 to 3 of daily use
- Development: Keeps developing for 6 to 8 hours, so avoid water, sweat and tight clothing during that window
- Scent: Light and pleasant, without the strong self-tanner smell
What makes MAKAI different:
- Lower-DHA blend for a more gradual tanning experience
- Light bronzer for natural-looking color
- Designed with a focus on seamless, even color and tone
- Lightweight feel without an overly sticky finish
- Formulated to avoid the heavy, artificial look associated with some self tanners
Moisturizing ingredients that do the work:
- Glycerin draws moisture into the skin
- Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) helps hydrate and soothe
- Cocoa Butter adds rich, lasting moisture
- Rosehip Oil nourishes and softens
- Sunflower Seed Oil and Soybean Oil keep skin smooth without a greasy feel
Use it to extend your mousse tan: Already using our Self-Tanning Mousse? Once your mousse tan starts to fade, apply the Gradual Lotion every day or every other day to keep your color even and your skin hydrated until your next full application.
Apply with clean hands just like your daily body lotion, or use a tanning applicator for the most even coverage. Wash your palms right after. Looking for more options? See all our gradual self tanners.
The Results Are In
From fair to golden.
Why You'll Love It
Buildable Color
Gradually deepen your glow with each application while staying in complete control of your results.
Hydrates While You Tan
Combines daily moisturization with natural-looking color development.
Beginner Friendly
Perfect for first-time self tanner users who want subtle, low-maintenance results.
Natural-Looking Glow
Develops gradually to create an even, streak-free tan that looks natural.
How To Apply
Step 1: Prepare Your Skin
Exfoliate dry areas and ensure skin is clean and dry before application.
Step 2: Apply Like a Moisturizer
Apply evenly across the skin using circular motions, just as you would a daily body lotion.
Step 3: Wash Hands Thoroughly
Wash hands immediately after application to avoid unwanted color on the palms.
Step 4: Build Your Desired Color
Apply daily until you reach your preferred shade, then maintain results with regular use.
BUILDABLE COLOR
From a subtle glow to a deep bronze tan, you're in control. Our buildable formula develops into natural-looking color that can be customized to your preferences. Choose the shade that fits your goals and enjoy results that look authentic, never orange or overly dramatic.
BUILDABLE COLOR
From a subtle glow to a deep bronze tan, you're in control. Our buildable formula develops into natural-looking color that can be customized to your preferences. Choose the shade that fits your goals and enjoy results that look authentic, never orange or overly dramatic.
SEAMLESS APPLICATION
A great tan starts with an even application. Our formula blends smoothly into the skin, making it easy to achieve streak-free, natural-looking results. Whether you're a first-time tanner or a seasoned pro, it's designed to apply evenly and develop consistently from head to toe.
SEAMLESS APPLICATION
A great tan starts with an even application. Our formula blends smoothly into the skin, making it easy to achieve streak-free, natural-looking results. Whether you're a first-time tanner or a seasoned pro, it's designed to apply evenly and develop consistently from head to toe.
HOW IT DEVELOPS
Our formula is designed to fit seamlessly into your routine. It absorbs quickly into the skin and begins developing shortly after application, giving you a natural-looking glow without a sticky feel or long wait. Check your product's specific development time above for the exact timing that applies to your formula.
HOW IT DEVELOPS
Our formula is designed to fit seamlessly into your routine. It absorbs quickly into the skin and begins developing shortly after application, giving you a natural-looking glow without a sticky feel or long wait. Check your product's specific development time above for the exact timing that applies to your formula.
SKIN LOVING INGREDIENTS
This isn't a formula that dries out your skin to get you tan. It's made to feel good on, not just look good after. No heavy, drying finish like a lot of self tanners leave behind.
SKIN LOVING INGREDIENTS
This isn't a formula that dries out your skin to get you tan. It's made to feel good on, not just look good after. No heavy, drying finish like a lot of self tanners leave behind.
HOW MAKAI COMPARES
Sunless by MAKAI
Other Self Tanners
Natural, streak-free finish
Fast-drying, no sticky finish, no weird smell, streak-free every time
Sticky, slow to dry, chemical smell, prone to streaks.
Skin-kind ingredients, built on your feedback
Clean, dermatologist-tested, formula created from real customer feedback.
Harsh chemicals, drying formulas, one-size-fits-all approach
Lasts 7-10 days | No Orange or muddy tones
Natural-looking color that adapts to your skin and fades evenly without patchiness
Often orange or unnatural, limited shade options, patchy fade
Frequently Asked Questions
Application & Timing
How long will my self tanner last on my skin?
While everyone's skin is different, your tan usually lasts 7 to 10 days with proper skin prep prior to application. Exfoliate your skin at least 4 hours before application and moisturize after your post tanning rinse to ensure a long lasting, even fading tan.
What should I expect in the first 24 hours?
Your tan will continue developing for six to eight hours after application. Avoid water, sweat, and tight clothing during that window. Once you shower off the excess product, your full color will be visible and will continue to settle over the following day.
How long should I wait before rinsing off?
We recommend waiting 6 to 8 hours for full color development. Avoid contact with liquids during development time.
Troubleshooting
What if my tan comes out patchy or uneven?
This almost always comes down to prep, not the formula. Dry skin, missed exfoliation, or applying over old fading tan are the most common causes. Exfoliate thoroughly before applying, make sure skin is completely dry, and blend in circular motions for even coverage.
How do I get a perfect tan on my hands and feet?
Use any remaining product on your applicator for your hands and feet. Bend your fingers into a claw-like position and blend in a circular motion until even. Apply a small amount of lotion afterward for a natural finish.
Shade Selection
How do I choose the right shade for me?
Our Gradual Self Tanning Lotion comes in one buildable shade for every skin tone. You control the depth by how often you apply it. For our mousses, take our Shade Finder Quiz to match a shade to your skin tone.
Can I use this on my face?
We recommend using our Glowing Face Mist for facial tanning. The face mist is specifically designed for delicate facial skin.
Formula & Ingredients
Will MAKAI self tanner look fake or orange?
No. Our formulas use a balanced level of DHA, and our Gradual Lotion uses an even lower-DHA blend, so your color develops into a natural bronze tone rather than an orange or muddy appearance.
Will MAKAI self tanner smell strong or chemical?
No. Our formula features a light, pleasant scent instead of the strong chemical odor commonly associated with self tanners.
Aftercare & Longevity
How long does one bottle last?
It depends on the product and how much you use each time. For most customers:
- Self-Tanning Mousse: about 8 to 10 full-body applications
- Gradual Self Tanning Lotion (200 ml): about 15 to 20 full-body applications, or roughly 3 to 5 weeks of building daily and then maintaining every other day
- Glowing Face Mist (100 ml): about 150 to 200 uses at 4 to 5 spritzes each
Does self tanner transfer onto clothing?
Our formula is designed to dry quickly and minimize transfer. Allow the product to dry fully before dressing for best results.
Why Choose a Gradual Tanning Lotion?
Who It's Best For
What Results Can I Expect?
Frequently Asked Questions About Gradual Tanning Lotion
The MAKAI Difference
Founded in 2020, MAKAI was created to give people a beautiful, natural-looking glow without relying on UV tanning. Inspired by a personal family experience with skin cancer, we believe you shouldn't have to compromise your skin to feel confident in a tan.
With over 20 years of self-tanning experience and more than 10 years of professional spray-tanning experience, our founder understands what makes a great tan. We focus on creating easy-to-use formulas that dry quickly, deliver natural-looking color, and fade evenly.
Today, MAKAI has served over 2,500 customers. Our products are vegan, cruelty-free, and made in the USA.
Not Sure Which Self Tanner Is Right For You?
Your glow, your way. Let’s find the self tanner that feels like you. Compare our self tanning mousses, shades, and formulas to find your perfect glow.
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