Photo credit: www.whowhatwear.com
As someone with predominantly Italian heritage, an inherent urge to seek a sun-kissed glow year-round feels almost ingrained in me. While I don’t pursue a tan to the extremes seen on Jersey Shore—regardless of its iconic status—I am always on the lookout for that flawless bronze that avoids the dreaded orange tint. Fortunately, my role as a beauty editor means that I receive a steady influx of self-tanners, bronzing drops, and tanning waters, allowing me to try nearly every product available so you don’t have to.
Among my recent deliveries, I found a collection of elegantly packaged tanners from “Dolce Glow,” alongside another set featuring baby blue and yellow accents labeled “Sunnee Bae.” At first glance, their differences were apparent—one evoked a chic, understated vibe while the other radiated a fun, beachy aesthetic. However, as I began to compare the offerings from both brands, a pattern emerged. Despite their contrasting designs, the product names, packaging, and overall purposes were strikingly similar. Intrigued, I decided to delve deeper into each line.
Isabel Alysa, the innovative mind behind Dolce Glow, is a celebrity tanning artist renowned for her expertise in crafting both consumer and professional tanning solutions. Dolce Glow has been a go-to brand among trendsetters for years, earning the loyalty of stars such as Sabrina Carpenter, Selena Gomez, and Olivia Culpo, who even relied on the brand for her wedding day bronze. Alysa has solidified her position in the beauty industry, with high-profile clients like Kim Kardashian and Miley Cyrus seeking her expertise for their red carpet appearances. After getting accustomed to the sophisticated style of Dolce Glow, I was fascinated to learn that Sunnee Bae is also her creation, prompting me to reach out for her insights.
A Look at the Best Dolce Glow and Sunnee Bae Products
How Do Dolce Glow and Sunnee Bae Differ?
Alysa: I’ve come to understand that everyone is at a unique point in their skincare and self-tanning journey. This realization inspired me to establish two distinct lines that stay true to our core mission: providing a beautiful, natural-looking tan while catering to varying skin needs.
Dolce Glow is my first love. I infused years of experience as a spray tan artist into crafting self-tanners that feel like a luxurious skincare routine. Each product features carefully selected ingredients—various types of hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, macadamia oil, green tea leaf extract, and vitamin A—all of which support anti-aging, enhance collagen production, and restore skin balance. From the formulation to the packaging, every element was designed to create an upscale experience.
Product Comparison
Price Range: $5-$140 | Benefits: Professional-grade, skincare-infused formulations, upscale packaging
Alysa: Sunnee BAEskin emerged from a different place in my heart. I aimed to create something equally effective but more relaxed and accessible. Reflecting on the times when I could barely afford quality skincare, I vowed to craft products for those who deserve to feel confident and beautiful despite life’s challenges. This brand holds deep personal meaning for me.
Sunnee BAE aims to serve those who desire radiant skin and a stunning glow without complexities. Infused with marine-based, deeply hydrating ingredients such as blue-green algae, sea kelp, wakame extract, and moringa seed oil, it provides essential nourishment for dry or lackluster skin. The sleek, modern packaging avoids unnecessary outer boxes, embodying an effortless yet elevated feel.
Product Comparison
Price Range: $9-$45, excluding merchandise | Benefits: Budget-friendly, marine ingredient-focused
The Evaluation Process
When comparing the prices side by side (can a $16 tanner really compete with a $50 product?), I dedicated a few days to objectively test both lines. I allotted the right side of my face and body to Dolce Glow while using Sunnee Bae on the left, setting aside any fears about looking mismatched. It was time to test!
Contour Wands
Designed similarly to a well-known contour wand, these products go beyond merely enhancing cheekbones. The bronzy formulas, powered by dihydroxyacetone (DHA)—the common tanning agent in self-tanners—gradually color the skin where applied.
I began with the Dolce Glow Contour Self-Tanning Sculpt + Glow on the right side of my face, enjoying its golden luminescence, before switching to the Sunnee Bae Baeside Sea Sculpt Contour on the left. With no specific development time required, I let them deepen naturally over the course of approximately 10 hours while going about my day.
Dolce Glow by Isabel Alysa
Contour Self-Tanning Sculpt + Glow
Size: 0.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: DHA, hyaluronic acid, water, apple, and lentil extracts | Skin Type: Normal
Popularized by Hailey Bieber using it in a summer makeup GRWM video, this contour wand showcases a reflective glow paired with a gradual tan that remains intact long after cleansing.
While I didn’t see a noticeable tan after 10 hours, I appreciated the immediate results, with each application lending a healthy, skin-enhancing glow that brought luminosity without any glitter. It provided a pigmented bronze that was simple to blend with a brush.
Key Takeaways: Luminous finish, instant bronze, hydrating formulation
Sunnee BaeSkin
Baeside Sea Sculpt Contour
Size: 0.5 oz. | Key Ingredients: DHA, moringa seed oil, squalane, kelp, and apple fruit extracts | Skin Type: Normal
On the other hand, the Sunnee Bae counterpart retailed for $7 less and offered a matte finish, suitable for shoppers with oily skin or those preferring a shine-free look. While it required more product for building up color, it provided a versatile option for those who favor a natural aesthetic.
Key Takeaways: Matte finish, ideal for natural makeup, hydrating ingredients
Tanning Mousses
As perhaps the most common form of self-tanner, tanning mousse was the true test of efficacy. Both products were packaged in nearly identical bottles, differing only in color and font style.
The Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse and Sunnee Bae Baeside Self-Tanning Sea Mousse were both offered in a single shade but claimed to be buildable for deeper tones, with development times that ranged from 2-4 hours for a light tan, extending up to over 6 hours for the darkest hue. I tested them on my right leg and arm with the Dolce Glow formula, while the Sunnee Bae mousse was applied on the left.
Dolce Glow
Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse
Size: 6.8 oz. | Key Ingredients: DHA, squalane, jojoba oil, vitamin E | Development: 2-4 hours (light tan), 4-6 hours (medium tan), 6+ hours (deep tan)
Right off the bat, I was captivated by the delightful fragrance, devoid of the typical self-tan scent that often lingers. Instead, both mousses emanated a refreshing citrus scent that lasted throughout the day.
The Dolce Glow formula produced a more intense hue quickly, showcasing a medium to dark base that yielded a coppery shade by the six-hour mark, without needing multiple layers. However, I did experience some streakiness on my arms, a potential fault of the mitt I used.
The non-orange results felt justified at the $49 price point despite the minor streaking, but it was time to evaluate the Sunnee Bae side.
Key Takeaways: Deeper initial shade, more golden hue by the end, minor streaking issue
Sunnee BaeSkin
Baeside Self-Tanning Sea Mousse
Size: 6.7 oz. | Key Ingredients: DHA, blue-green algae, sea kelp, wakame, moringa seed oil | Development: 2-4 hours (light tan), 4-6 hours (medium tan), 6+ hours (deep tan)
The Sunnee Bae Sea Mousse impressed me greatly, gliding on smoothly and without streaks, all while maintaining a fresh, clean scent. While slightly less color payoff was noted initially, the buildable nature meant a deeper tone was attainable with additional applications, and the final result closely matched that of my Dolce Glow side.
One notable aspect was how each reacted to water; I noticed some spotting on the Sunnee Bae side due to frequent washing. While this may be subjective, it’s an important consideration for potential buyers.
In conclusion, I would recommend the Sunnee BaeSide Sea Mousse for its similar luxurious effects at a more affordable price of $28.
Key Takeaways: Natural buildable coverage, pleasant scent, susceptible to water streaks
Self-Tanning Serums
Self-tanning serums rank among my favorites for effortless tanning. They are easy to apply, invisible once on the skin (making them perfect for layering beneath makeup), and can be used directly on the face or combined with other skincare products. I used three drops of each serum, applying Dolce Glow Goccia di Sole Self-Tanning Serum Drops on the right and Sunnee BaeSide Searum Drops on the left before bed. The results were nearly indistinguishable.
Dolce Glow
Goccia Di Sole Hydrating Self-Tanning Serum Drops for Face and Body
Size: 1 oz. | Key Ingredients: DHA, erythrulose, aloe vera, cranberry extract, caffeine, jojoba seed oil | Development: 4-6 hours
Sunnee BAEskin
Baeside Searum Drops
Size: 1 oz. | Key Ingredients: DHA, blue-green algae, moringa seed oil, sugar cane extract | Development: 4-6 hours
As mentioned, the outcomes were so similar that distinguishing between the two was impossible. Both serums delivered a lovely glow by morning, matching my vacation-tanned complexion with natural radiance. Each formulation felt deeply hydrating, contributing an extra layer of skincare to my routine.
It’s worth noting that Dolce Glow’s serum features more skin-enhancing extracts, including energizing caffeine and skin-soothing aloe vera, which may make it a preferable option for those with acne-prone skin. On the other hand, Sunnee Bae offers a cost-effective option at a $30 discount while still packing beneficial ingredients, providing hydration through moringa seed oil and rejuvenation via algae extract.
Additional Products Reviewed
Self-Tanning Facial Mists
Dolce Glow
Acqua Hydrating Self-Tanning Face Mist
Size: 3.4 oz. | Shades: 1 | Key Ingredients: Sugar cane, Australian macadamia oil, cranberry extract, green tea leaf extract, sodium hyaluronate | Use: 4-5 pumps | Development: 6-8 hours
This facial mist offers even distribution without the need for drying time, delivering streak-free results that allow one to build color with varying mists. It also functions as a primer and setting spray while providing hydration and collagen-boosting properties.
Sunnee BAEskin
Baeside Hydrating Sea Mist Tanning Water
Size: 3.4 oz. | Shades: 1 | Key Ingredients: Blue-green algae, sea kelp, wakame, moringa seed oil | Use: 4-5 pumps | Development: 6-8 hours
Similar to its Dolce Glow counterpart, this tanning mist offers a versatile formula for achieving various bronzing levels. With added oceanic nutrients, it nourishes the skin barrier and enhances hydration, all at a significantly lower price of $20.
Self-Tanning Body Sprays
Dolce Glow
Self-Tanning Mist – Medium to Dark
Size: 6.4 oz. | Shades: 2 | Key Ingredients: Goji berry fruit extract, aloe vera, Australian macadamia oil, sodium hyaluronate, Bulgarian rose oil, jojoba seed oil | Use: Slow, circular sprays | Development: 2-4 hours (light tan), 4-6 hours (medium tan), 6+ hours (deep tan)
This self-tanning spray mimics the experience of an airbrush tan, providing easy application through controlled, circular spraying. Infused with skin-nourishing ingredients, it is designed for gradual development across two shades.
Sunnee BAEskin
Baeside Sea Spray Self-Tan
Size: 6.4 oz. | Shades: 1 | Key Ingredients: Blue-green algae extract, wakame extract, kelp extract, moringa seed oil | Use: Slow, circular sprays | Development: 6-8 hours+
Unlike its Dolce Glow counterpart, Sunnee Bae’s self-tanning spray comes in one adaptable shade to achieve deeper hues. It promises an airbrush finish and is cost-effective at $26 less.
Choosing Between the Brands
Who would you recommend each line to, based on lifestyle, price, etc.?
Alysa: I believe Dolce Glow is best for those who enjoy a more luxurious beauty experience, while Sunnee Bae caters to those seeking simplicity. If you prioritize skincare benefits entwined with self-tanning and appreciate investing in high-quality formulas, Dolce Glow is a perfect fit. Sunnee Bae appeals to a younger audience or anyone desiring a straightforward, accessible glow. Regardless of choice, each line addresses distinct skincare and self-tanning needs.
Q&A
What do you hope customers take away from each brand?
Alysa: My first spray tan came during a challenging financial time, yet it unexpectedly provided an enormous confidence boost. This pivotal moment remains with me and inspired the creation of these brands; I aim for everyone to feel that same uplift, regardless of their current circumstances. There’s deep intention infused into every formula we offer.
What are your must-have products for each line?
Alysa: My essentials for a desert island would undoubtedly include:
- Dolce Glow Acqua Hydrating Self-Tanning Water: It’s incredibly light and delivers a beautiful glow without rinse-off.
- Sunnee BAEside Sea Spray: For multi-tasking on a deserted island, this product’s 360-degree capability would be invaluable for application.
- Dolce Glow Self-Tanning Contour Sculptor: An indispensable 3-in-1 product great for sculpting and enhancing both makeup and bare skin.
- Dolce Glow SPF 50 Body Balm: Essential for sun protection, it melts effortlessly into the skin while imparting shimmer.
Source
www.whowhatwear.com