
I'm an expert in nontoxic self-tanning and have a passion for a beachy aesthetic—here are my 15 essential products for a desert island.
(Image credit: Original graphic by Audrey Hedlund) The Lineup is a monthly feature that provides an exclusive look into the beauty collections of top experts and trendsetters in the industry. Prepare for an insider's view of the essential products that are integral to their daily lives.
Bethany Menzel is the co-founder of Saltyface, a stylish beauty brand cherished by editors, recognized for its non-toxic self-tanning products. She launched the company with her husband, David, in Vancouver, Canada. "As someone who enjoys the beach, I've always felt more self-assured and like myself with a tan. Growing up in Canada, I became quite familiar with self-tanning to achieve that sun-kissed look," she shares. "Upon discovering the harmful ingredients present in many self-tanning products and their effects on my skin, we began developing formulas that recreated the beachy appearance I adore while being clean and genuinely beneficial for your skin."
Menzel describes her not-so-guilty pleasure as enjoying the sun (safely, of course). "I spend a lot of time outdoors, so I make it a point to protect my skin by covering up," she states. "Occasionally, I'll indulge in a day of soaking up that vitamin D, guilt-free. I'd choose the glow from one of those days over any treatment."
(Image credit: Bethany Menzel) Since starting Saltyface, Menzel has developed a newfound appreciation for clean, non-toxic beauty products. "We are committed to creating genuinely clean products, and this commitment shapes the products I choose to use as well," she explains.
Her dedication to clean ingredients aligns with her approach to healthy aging. Menzel believes that aging should be embraced rather than feared or resisted. "You have to be intentional about not viewing aging as a flaw. As I notice changes in my face during my 30s, I refuse to conform to society's obsession with youth. I believe that confident, happy individuals are the most beautiful because their comfort with their age radiates," she states.
Shop Menzel's Beauty Edit:
"I use our liquid bronzer every day to achieve an instant glow on makeup-free days, mix it with my SPF for tinted sun protection, or contour over my tinted moisturizer."
ILIA
Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Skincare Foundation
"This is my top choice for skin coverage. I appreciate its lightweight feel, dewy finish, and, of course, clean formulation."
NUDESTIX
Nudies Matte All Over Face Bronze Color
"I have these cream blush sticks in numerous shades. They are my preferred blush because of their clean ingredients and creamy texture without being overly dewy."
OSEA
Ocean Cleansing Milk
"This pH-balanced cleanser serves as my second cleanse, and I resonate deeply with OSEA's philosophy, loving their products."
OSEA
Undaria Algae Body Oil
"I have dry skin and am fond of oil-based body products. This one has an incredible scent."
Tower 28 Beauty
Shineon Lip Jelly
"This is my daily lip gloss, and I always have extras at home, in my purse, and in my car."
Oak Essentials
Cleansing Balm
"I use this melty formulation to remove my makeup. I'm a fan of the Jenni Kayne brand, and her Oak Essentials line features beautiful, clean products."
Saltyface
Tanning Moisturizer
"I apply this in place of my regular moisturizer every third night in my evening routine. It feels just like skincare, and I wake up with a natural-looking tan."
Editor's note: Menzel notes that using the tanning product on bare skin yields the best results due to greater absorbency. "That's why I love our Tanning Moisturizer," she adds. "It's a skincare-based formula that I can apply right after cleansing, ensuring I receive skincare benefits and hydration while allowing for tan absorption without any barrier."
"I've always adored freckles for their cute, sun-kissed look. The Freckle Paint lasts all day and blends in beautifully."
Crown Affair
The Texturizing Air Dry Hair Mousse
"I typically air-dry my hair to maintain its health. This mousse helps it dry more manageably and smells fantastic."
MERIT
The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Foundation and Concealer Stick
"I use this product under my eyes as concealer. It provides just the right level of coverage without creasing."
Living Libations
Seabuckthorn Best Skin Ever
"When I'm traveling or want a super low-key skincare routine, this product acts as both a cleanser and hydrator. It's my most frequently repurchased item, as it's very versatile and smells delightful."
Dr. Loretta
Intense Replenishing Serum
"This product is miraculous; it feels like applying silk to my face. I incorporate it into my evening routine when my skin needs extra care."
Moon Juice
Magnesi-Om With Magnesium

















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I'm an expert in nontoxic self-tanning and have a passion for a beachy aesthetic—here are my 15 essential products for a desert island.
Click here to watch Bethany Menzel, co-founder of the nontoxic self-tan brand Saltyface, discuss her favorite beauty products.