Ever step out of a tanning bed feeling… just okay? You put in the time under the UV lights, but that deep, golden glow you dreamed of seems a little lackluster. It’s a common tanning struggle! You see rows and rows of colorful bottles promising amazing results, but which one actually works best for *your* skin?
Choosing the right tanning lotion is more confusing than picking out a snack at the grocery store. Do you need bronzers, accelerators, or something totally different? If you choose the wrong one, you might waste money or, worse, end up with a disappointing tan. It’s frustrating when you want that perfect summer look, but the product aisle feels like a maze.
Don’t let lotion confusion spoil your bronze! This guide cuts through the hype. We will break down exactly what ingredients matter, how to match a lotion to your tanning goals, and the secrets to achieving your deepest color yet. Get ready to say goodbye to mediocre tans forever.
Top Tanning Bed Lotions Recommendations
- 100X BRONZING POWER - Get a deep, dark and long-lasting tan with this dark tanning accelerator. This powerful formula is designed to enhance your natural tan and give you 100 times more bronzing power. Say goodbye to pale skin and hello to a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow!
- ULTRA-DARK INDOOR/OUTDOOR TANNING LOTION - Achieve a deep, natural tan with this powerful tan oil. Formulated for use both indoors and outdoors, this lotion contains a silicone bronzer to enhance your tan and leave your skin glowing. Experience 100X dark results with this easy-to-use tanning lotion.
- INTENSE, DEEP, AND LONG-LASTING TAN RESULTS - Achieve the ultimate bronzed glow with our Indoor-Outdoor Tanning Accelerator. This powerful lotion will enhance and extend your tan for a darker, richer, and longer-lasting result. Perfect for those seeking intense and deep tanning results.
- SUITABLE FOR USE IN TANNING BEDS AND OUTDOORS - Achieve a deep, dark tan both indoors and outdoors with this specially formulated lotion. Its silicone bronzer and Tan Enhancing properties make it the perfect choice for those seeking a dark tanning bed lotion.
- ENHANCED WITH SKIN-NOURISHING VITAMINS - This Tan lotion is infused with vitamins to nourish your skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth while achieving a deep, dark tan.
- · Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula: Helps prolong the life and radiance of your tattoos and tanning results.
- · Quad Tyrosine Blend & Melano Bronze: Stimulates and increases melanin formation to accelerate the tanning process.
- · Ultra-Darkening Skin Hydrating Intensifier: Contains coconut milk, coconut oil, and cocoa butter to improve skin hydration. Delivers a dark golden tan without the use of bronzing agents.
- · Coconut Paradise Fragrance: An intoxicating light coconut fragrance with a faint scent of vanilla will make you dream of a day in paradise.
- · Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses is part of the Tanovations company. The Ed Hardy logo was replaced by the Tanovations logo, which has a palm tree.
- DARK UV TANNING LOTION. i boost + accelerate natural tanning results to the darkest level thanks to x2000 tanning intensifiers
- x2000 TANNING INTENSIFIERS. i'm made with peptides to help boost skin melanin levels while activating + accelerating the tanning process
- SO MOISTURIZING. i’m juiced up with mango butter to moisturize + nourish your skin as you tan
- EASY TO USE. apply lotion liberally + evenly to your whole body before sun or UV bed exposure. re-apply as necessary.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i'm free of nasties and i love animals so i'm vegan + cruelty free
- ✅ Dark tanning activators deliver golden results without the use of DHA or bronzing agents.
- ✅ Multiple Tan Intensifier + Melanin Stimulators - Stimulate and increase melanin formation to accelerate the tanning process.
- ✅ Ultra-tan Activator - Stimulates tyrosine activity and promotes even and long lasting color production. Skin Tightening - Reduces the appearance of cellulite and promotes firmness.
- ✅ Coconut Milk, Coconut Butter & Cocoa Oil - Provide intense, deep skin hydration.
- ✅ Tattoo & Color Fade Protector - Prolongs the life and radiance of your tattoos and tanning results.
- GIVE YOUR SKIN A NATURAL, BEAUTIFUL GOLDEN GLOW without applying any bronzers or skin darkening products. Australian Gold's Rapid Tanning Intensifying lotion speeds up the tanning process while you bask in the sun or use a tanning bed
- BE SUMMER READY - Formulated with Biosine Complex, a proprietary blend of premium ingredients, it prepares your skin for dark color development. It does not contain sunscreen but increases the pigmentation so your skin gets a quicker tan
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS - Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and the goodness of Vitamin E, both of which are powerful antioxidants, this tanning intensifier fights off free radicals, gently nourishes and cleanses your skin leaving it smooth and fresh
- ULTIMATE HYDRATION - The exotic combination of native oils, vital nutrients and Aloe Vera provide naturally soothing and deeply nourished skin that remains hydrated for long. Available in a delectable Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla fragrance
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED - Australian Gold's time-tested formula is designed to be Vegan, Gluten Free, while being loaded with the goodness of Kakadu Plums and Safflower Seed Oil for an instant radiant tan
- European Gold's professional salon formula. ULTRA DARK FORMULA: Premium indoor tanning lotion with Elite Dark Triple Bronzer complex for achieving the darkest possible tan results
- Elite Dark Bronzers offer instant, natural, and flawless DHA bronzing for your darkest tan yet. TIME-RELEASE TECHNOLOGY: Advanced bronzing formula gradually develops and intensifies over time for long-lasting, natural-looking color
- Time-release bronzers continue to darken your tan after your session. TATTOO ENHANCEMENT: Special complex helps maintain tattoo vibrancy and clarity while developing your desired tan shade
- Coconut, Watermelon, Raspberry, & Avocado extracts nourish skin for a beautiful radiance. SKIN CONDITIONING: Tones and enhances skin appearance while tanning, suitable for all tanning bed types
- Skin-firming ingredients tone the appearance of skin CLEAN BEAUTY: Vegan, cruelty-free formula without parabens or sulfates, available in a convenient 12 FL OZ bottle
- ✅A Deep Tan: That’s What Sea Said tanning lotion is specially formulated for a rich, dark tan; Our outdoor and indoor tanning lotion contains a proprietary blend of tyrosines to help stimulate melanin production; Achieve a glowing golden bronze faster with this advanced tanning oil
- ✅Safe: Ideal for outdoor use as well as tanning lotion for tanning beds, That’s What Sea Said tan lotion has undergone stringent quality inspection and many hours of development with leading dermatological experts; This sun tanning lotion is crafted to the highest standards; Our promise is this; if we wouldn’t use this tanning oil for outdoor sun exposure ourselves, we won’t sell it
- ✅Tattoo Protection: It’s time to say goodbye to tanning bed lotion that doesn't prevent your tattoos from fading; Our advanced tan and tattoo lotion actively works to protect your ink from becoming dull; Show off your best self and tan more confidently with That’s What Sea Said tanning lotion
- ✅Advanced Hydration: People love how our dark tanning lotion helps prevent against wrinkles and signs of ageing; Enriched with aloe vera, coconut and passionfruit to lock in moisture, That’s What Sea Said outdoor and indoor tanning bed lotion is enhanced with botanical extracts for smooth, luxurious and supple skin
- ✅No Stains: Tell self tanner lotions that leave unsightly stains on your sheets and clothes to step aside, this premium body and face tanner from That’s What Sea Said is a white suntan lotion and has a smooth touch that’s never sticky; What’s more, our body and face tanning lotion smells like a gentle coconut summer breeze
- Indoor/Outdoor Bronzing Blend with low levels of DHA combined with high levels of Natural bronzers allow the skin to develop natural, long lasting bronzed results.
- Guava Extracts are rich in antioxidants that help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while providing a glowing complexion.
- Watermelon Extracts provide 24-hour hydration while improving the skins tone and deeply improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dry spots of the skin.
- MelanoBronze stimulates melanin activity to allow for longer lasting, darker tanning results.
- Tattoo & Color Fade Protection protects the color and luster of your tan and tattoos.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Tanning Bed Lotions
Buying the right tanning lotion makes a big difference in your indoor tanning experience. Tanning lotions help your skin tan faster and look better. This guide will help you choose the perfect lotion for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Good tanning lotions have special ingredients that boost your tan. Look for these features when you shop:
Bronzers
- What they do: Bronzers give you an instant color boost. They act like makeup for your tan.
- Types: Natural bronzers (from things like walnut shell) give a warm color. DHA bronzers offer a deeper, delayed color.
Tingle Ingredients
- What they do: Ingredients like Benzyl Nicotinate create a tingling or hot sensation. This brings blood to the skin’s surface, helping you tan deeper.
- Note: These are only for experienced tanners. Beginners should avoid them at first.
Accelerators
- What they do: Accelerators use amino acids (like Tyrosine) to help your body produce more melanin, which is the natural tanning pigment.
Important Materials in Tanning Lotions
The ingredients list tells you a lot about the lotion’s quality. Focus on these key materials:
Moisturizers (Hydrators)
- Why they matter: Tanning beds dry out your skin. Lotions packed with moisturizers keep your skin soft.
- Look for: Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, and Coconut Oil. These ingredients lock in moisture.
Vitamins and Antioxidants
- Why they matter: These ingredients protect your skin. They fight off damage caused by UV light.
- Look for: Vitamin E and Vitamin A. These keep your skin healthy while you tan.
Silks and Silicones
- Why they matter: These make the lotion feel luxurious. They help the lotion spread evenly and leave your skin feeling smooth, not greasy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all lotions are made equal. Some things greatly affect how well the lotion works.
Quality Boosters
- High-Quality Bronzers: Lotions with high percentages of quality bronzers often give a richer, longer-lasting color.
- Advanced Formulas: Look for lotions marketed as “darkening formulas” or “advanced tanning technology.” These usually contain better ingredient blends.
Quality Reducers
- Too Much Fragrance: Lotions heavy on perfumes might smell nice, but they often contain fewer active tanning ingredients.
- Mineral Oil Base: Some cheaper lotions use mineral oil. This can sometimes block the UV light from reaching your skin effectively.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about when and how you plan to use the lotion.
For Beginners (First-Time or Occasional Tanners)
You need a gentle lotion. Choose an Accelerator-only lotion. These lotions focus on hydration and melanin production without harsh tingling or heavy bronzers. They help you build a base tan slowly and safely.
For Experienced Tanners (Regular Users)
You can use lotions with Intense Bronzers or Tingle Factors. These give you maximum color in fewer sessions. If you want a very deep, dark tan, look for lotions labeled “Max Bronzing.”
Everyday Use (Maintaining Color)
A good Daily Moisturizer is key. These lotions often have very light bronzers or no bronzers at all. They keep your color fresh between tanning sessions.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tanning Bed Lotions
Q: Do I have to use a lotion every time I use a tanning bed?
A: Yes, it is strongly recommended. Lotions keep your skin hydrated, which helps you tan more evenly and reduces dryness.
Q: What is the difference between a bronzer and an accelerator?
A: An accelerator helps your body make more tan pigment naturally. A bronzer gives you instant color right away, like makeup for your skin.
Q: Are tanning lotions safe?
A: Yes, when used correctly. They are designed to work with UV light. Always follow the directions on the bottle.
Q: What is the tingle effect?
A: Tingle ingredients create a warm, slightly itchy feeling on your skin. This means blood flow is increasing to the surface, helping you tan deeper.
Q: How soon after tanning should I apply a lotion?
A: You should apply the tanning lotion right before you get into the bed. Use a regular moisturizer on your body after showering to keep the tan longer.
Q: Can I use regular body lotion instead of tanning lotion?
A: No. Regular lotion often blocks UV rays, which stops you from tanning. Tanning lotions are specifically formulated to enhance UV absorption.
Q: How long does a bottle of tanning lotion last?
A: It depends on how often you tan. For someone tanning 2-3 times a week, a standard bottle usually lasts about 4 to 6 weeks.
Q: What should I do if the lotion makes my face too dark?
A: Many tanning lotions have a warning not to use them on the face. Use a special, non-comedogenic facial tanning lotion instead, as facial skin is more sensitive.
Q: Do expensive lotions really work better than cheap ones?
A: Often, yes. More expensive lotions usually have higher concentrations of quality accelerators and better moisturizing ingredients.
Q: What does “DHA-free” mean?
A: DHA is an ingredient that causes a delayed, deeper color. If a lotion is DHA-free, it only relies on instant bronzers or accelerators for color.