The Iconic Orange Gelée Is on Major Sale This Week

Just in time for sunny days ahead: Vacation’s iconic Orange Gelée is on major sale this week—and this week only.

Originally introduced in 1926 by famed hairstylist Monsieur Antoine, Bain de Soleil Orange Gelée became a beach staple from the ’60s through the ’90s, especially in St. Tropez. It was known for its signature orange tint, transportive scent and silky balm-to-oil texture that left skin looking glowy and glossy. It was later discontinued when Bain de Soleil ceased production.

vintage ad for orange gelee — Courtesy of Vacation

In 2024, nostalgia-hunting beauty lovers got their wish. Vacation revived Orange Gelée with a modern update: sunscreen. The new version includes SPF 30 (the American Academy of Dermatology recommends 30 or higher), making it a safer, updated take on the original. It still captures the look, feel and scent of the classic, now paired with skin-loving oils.

When it relaunched, it came in a classic aluminum tube—just like the original—and quickly built a 16,000-person waitlist before selling out within days. Since then, Vacation has expanded the lineup to include a Sunscreen Spray ($25) and the new Orange Gelée 100 Year Fragrance Collection Kit ($79).

This year marks 100 years of Orange Gelée, and Vacation is celebrating with a campaign called “100 Years of Gelée,” kicking off with a limited-time Target promotion. Now through Saturday, May 2, during “Gelée Week,” the Orange Gelée SPF 30 Sunscreen Gel is available in Target stores for just $10—57 percent off its usual $24 price.

The timing aligns with spring and summer travel, making it an easy buy whether you’re stocking up or trying it for the first time. Consider this your sign to grab one (or two).