A topical tanning composition comprises an aqueous continuous phase comprising water; and at least one fruit or vegetable juice; at least one optional compound selected from the group consisting of tanning accelerators, bronzers, and a mixture thereof; and a non-aqueous discontinuous phase. The composition is made by mixing water and a fruit or vegetable juice to make an aqueous juice phase; preparing a nonaqueous mixture of at least one thickener; at least one hydrophobic solvent, wax or oil; and an emulsifier to make a hydrophobic phase; mixing the hydrophobic phase and the aqueous juice phase to form a uniform emulsion; and optionally adding at least one component selected from the group consisting of tanning accelerators, bronzers, and a mixture thereof to the uniform emulsion.