Winner: St. Tropez Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion

This chocolaty-brown lotion looks dark but delivers a pretty golden glow that rapidly develops into the “perfect shade of brown,” said one tester. Plus, it dries quickly and (unlike some products) has no chemical smell.
To Buy: $37.50, www.sephora.com.

Runner-Up: Lancôme Flash Bronzer Glow ’N Wear

A lightweight gel, this leaves a tint that looks believable and contains moisturizing ingredients, like vitamin E. Though not for all, the shimmer in its formula won points with some testers.
To Buy: $31, www.lancome-usa.com.