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Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse Review: Is This Self-Tanner Worth It?

Written by Lexi Carlson
Medically Reviewed by Denise Christine Bries, MD
Updated
Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse Review_ Is This Self-Tanner Worth It_

A clear self-tanner? Well, that’s interesting.

But the best thing about it is that because it’s clear, it doesn’t stain. And we all know that messy self-tanners cause so much hassle and stress!

As interesting as it sounds, is the Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse worth it? Find out in this review.

(SPOILER ALERT: Yes.)

Overview of the Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse

Overview of the Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse

The Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse stands out with its clear liquid appearance. It has a whipped foam formula, giving it a smooth glide on the skin upon application.

As the name suggests, it’s hydrating and moisturizing – a rare characteristic among self-tanners.

It’s also free from toxins and unwanted chemicals such as synthetic dyes, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oils, and methylisothiazolinone.

Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse Specifications:

  • It comes in two (2) shades: light-medium, and medium-dark
  • It includes a tanning mitt
  • No guide color
  • It’s made of vegan and cruelty-free
  • Key ingredients include glycerin, vitamin E acetate, aloe barbadensis (a.k.a aloe vera/aloe leaf juice), Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) seed oil

Pros

  • This clear self-tanning mousse doesn’t stain clothing and sheets.
  • It’s an easy-to-apply self-tanner.
  • The tan gives a more natural look.
  • The tanning mitt inclusion helps with consistent results.

Cons

  • It has a strong smell (it smells good for some but bad for other reviews).
  • It’s not the option for people who prefer a darker shade
  • The transparent appearance makes it difficult to know how even your application is
  • More expensive than other self-tanners

Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse Review

Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse Review

The Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse can be a hit or miss, depending on your preference and expected results.

It’s not a tanning product for everyone, but it can be the perfect choice for some.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

I give the Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse a 4 out of 5 stars.

We’ve never seen a clear mousse before, and I appreciate its hydrating factor. Dryness is the number one hindrance to a good tan!

Looks, Feel, & Smell

It looks like water on the bottle but comes out as white mousse when pumped out. You’d never think that it’s self-tan.

It’s perfect for those who prefer subtlety.

This mousse glides on your skin, from face to feet. It feels hydrating as you smoothly apply it.

However, many users get turned off by the smell. Many of us hate the smell of self-tan, and this one is no exception.

There seems to be an effort to combat the smell by throwing in some floral fragrance. But the combination doesn’t smell the best.

But to be fair, the smell can be subjective. Some reviews vouched for it and claimed that it smells better than others.

Application, Directions, and Usage

The application process is easy.

Like other brands, you use a mitt to rub the product on your body in circular motions. You leave it for 6-8 hours before seeing results.

I suggest applying the tan at night before bed to minimize the waiting time. The only drawback is for those sensitive to smell – it might transfer to the bed.

Tanning Effect

There’s no amount of product specified. But you may want to try gradually building it up to achieve a darker medium shade.

Unlike other tans with color guides, this one doesn’t go as dark in one application.

It’s good news for those who prefer a subtle tan but disappointing for those who want to go darker.

But I must say, it gives you a beautiful golden undertone as if you’re growing from within!

Price

The price is the main drawback.

This mousse is not cheap at all. It costs around $49 a bottle, and the average price point of self-tanner options is around $20 to $30.

Who Will Like This Self-Tanner

What makes it unique is a clear consistency.

You won’t look orange after applying, and it has less of a sticky feeling, although not absent.

If you’re someone who struggles with staining, this self-tanner doesn’t do that! The Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse is applied without color and only stains the skin.

It’s the perfect self-tanning solution for people who want a natural body tan without deviating much from their initial skin tone.

Who Might Not Like This Mousse

Some people apply tanners to be significantly darker.

Unfortunately, this tanner won’t immediately do that. Their darkest shade gives a medium shade on light or pale skin.

It might be achievable by building more layers, but you’ll also use more products. And this mousse is already expensive at around $49 per bottle!

It’s also challenging to know if you’re over or underapplying because the tan doesn’t show up on the body until a few hours or the next day.

The smell of this mousse is a bit strong, but that’s also true for other tan lotion options. It smells nice for some because of a hint of floral fragrance, but others hate it.

Summary

It deserves a high score for all other aspects, but the drawback is the smell and price.

If it has a milder smell and is cheaper, it’s the easiest 5 out of 5 product for people looking for that subtle, hydrating tan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse Last?

The tan lasts about ten (10) days and gradually fades. Don’t worry; the fade remains even.

How Long Does Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse Take to Kick In?

It takes 6-8 hours before the effect kicks in. It’s best to apply at night before bed to minimize waiting time!

Alternatives to the Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse

Alternatives
  • Super Glow – a hyaluronic self-tan serum best to include in your skincare regimen
  • The Water – like the mousse, but in water form. It’s an even more hydrating option.
  • The Butter – a 4-in-1 self-tanning moisturizer (replenishes, hydrates, perfects, and illuminates)
  • The Gradual – lightweight moisturizer for a subtle and gradual glow

Final Verdict: Is the Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse Worth Buying?

I say yes! The Tan-Luxe Hydra Mousse is a worthy product to achieve a beautiful sun-kissed look. It saves you from the obnoxious orange and makes you look naturally healthier.

Check out Isle of Paradise Mousse, it’s a pretty great alternative as well!