Ever dream of getting that perfect, golden-brown tan without spending hours baking in the sun? We all want that beautiful summer glow, but sometimes, nature needs a little help. When you walk down the tanning aisle, you face a wall of bottles promising fast results. Which one actually works? It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which sun tanning accelerator is the best fit for your skin and your goals.
Many products claim to speed up the tanning process, but they often leave you confused about the ingredients and the real benefits. You want a deeper color faster, but you also want to feel good about what you are putting on your skin. This guide cuts through the marketing hype. We will break down what makes a good accelerator work and how these special formulas help your skin tan more efficiently.
Keep reading to discover the secrets to choosing the right accelerator for your best tan yet. We will compare popular types and give you clear tips so you can confidently pick the perfect product. Get ready to understand the science behind that gorgeous bronze look!
Top Sun Tanning Accelerator Recommendations
- 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
- ACHIEVE A DEEPER, DARKER TAN - This dark tanning accelerator spray gel helps intensify your golden glow & lets you achieve a darker color payoff. Blends effortlessly with the skin, imparting a beautiful sun-kissed look out on the beach or on a sun bed
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS - A rich blend of Kakadu Plum extract with highest content of Vitamin C, and Tea Tree Oil, a powerful antioxidant, fights off free radicals and gently cleanses your skin leaving it healthy and smooth
- BIOSINE COMPLEX FOR A LONG-LASTING TAN - This tanning intensifier contains a proprietary blend of premium ingredients that prepare your skin for a dark color development. It does not contain sunscreen
- ULTIMATE HYDRATION AND SKIN BENEFITS - Loaded with Vitamin A & E and Natural Oils, this spray gel not only helps build a flawless tan but also supplies essential nutrients to your skin, while moisturizing & hydrating it for a soft & supple feel
- REFRESHING FRAGRANCE - This tanning accelerator spray gel takes you on an instant vacation to the beach with its signature Cocoa Dreams fragrance in a delectable and long-lasting scent of Coconut, Orange and Vanilla that keeps you fresh all day long
- Sun Tanning Accelerator: Powered by the Infinite Tan System, featuring naturally derived carrot and coconut oils, it accelerates the tanning process for a rich, long-lasting bronze (SPF0).
- Instant Sun-Kissed Glow: Achieve a flawless, even tan instantly with our powerful blend of tanning oils, crafted for radiant results.
- Water-Resistant: This dual-action protectant and tanning blend of natural oils provides instant and even tanning results while remaining resistant to water. Perfect for any vacation!
- Nourishing & Hydrating: A powerful combination of Vitamin A and E for enhanced skin nourishment and protection. This tanning lotion moisturizes skin leaving it soft and smooth during tanning.
- Easy Application: Silky, easy-to-apply formula spreads evenly for a streak-free finish unlike tanning lotions. Perfect for a deep golden shimmering tan. Apply SPF prior to Carroten for UV protection.
- ACHIEVE A DEEPER, DARKER TAN - This dark tanning accelerator lotion with instant bronzer intensifies your bronze glow & helps you achieve a darker tan. Blends effortlessly and absorbs quickly, allowing for an even sunless tanning or outdoor sun tanning
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS - A rich blend of Kakadu Plum extract with highest content of Vitamin C, and Tea Tree Oil, a powerful antioxidant, fights off free radicals and gently cleanses your skin leaving it healthy and smooth
- BIOSINE COMPLEX FOR A LONG-LASTING TAN - This tanning intensifier contains an advanced combination of ingredients that prepare your skin for a dark color development while soothing, smoothening & nourishing your skin. It does not contain sunscreen
- HYDRATION & SUPERIOR SKIN BENEFITS - Enriched with Vitamin A & E and Natural Oils, this accelerator & bronzer not only helps build a flawless tan but also supplies essential nutrients to the skin, while moisturizing & hydrating it for a soft & supple feel
- REFRESHING FRAGRANCE - This tanning accelerator lotion takes you on an instant vacation to the beach with its signature Cocoa Dreams fragrance in a delectable and long-lasting scent of Coconut, Orange and Vanilla that keeps you fresh all day long
- All natural-Featuring an old family formula packed with Hawaii’s most splendid natural ingredients, the Maui Babe browning lotion does not only support getting a glowing tan faster but it even moisturizes and nourishes your skin for an all-over charming summer look.
- Maui Babe Browning lotion is NOT a self tanner or bronzer. You do need to be in the sun in order to acquire a tan. While Maui Babe Browning is brown in color and not a stain, if contact is made with clothing, towels, furniture, it MAY cause staining. We recommend if contact made with these items, to rinse immediately to avoid staining. Do not allow to sit and dry.
- Apply an SPF of your choosing first. We recommend an SPF30 and above. Let sit on skin for 5-10 minutes and then apply your Maui Babe Browning lotion.
- Bottle size is 4 ounces, shake well before each use.
- ACHIEVE A DEEPER, DARKER TAN - This dark tanning accelerator lotion helps intensify your golden glow & lets you achieve a darker color payoff. Blends effortlessly with the skin, imparting a beautiful sun-kissed look out on the beach or on a sun bed
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS - A rich blend of Kakadu Plum extract with highest content of Vitamin C, and Tea Tree Oil, a powerful antioxidant, fights off free radicals and gently cleanses your skin leaving it healthy and smooth
- BIOSINE COMPLEX FOR A LONG-LASTING TAN - This tanning intensifier contains a proprietary blend of premium ingredients that prepare your skin for a dark color development. It does not contain sunscreen
- ULTIMATE HYDRATION AND SKIN BENEFITS - Loaded with Vitamin A & E and Natural Oils, this accelerator lotion not only helps build a flawless tan but also supplies essential nutrients to your skin, while moisturizing & hydrating it for a soft & supple feel
- REFRESHING FRAGRANCE - This tanning accelerator lotion takes you on an instant vacation to the beach with its signature Cocoa Dreams fragrance in a delectable and long-lasting scent of Coconut, Orange and Vanilla that keeps you fresh all day long
- ✅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
- 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
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Sun Tanning Accelerator
Want to get that gorgeous golden glow faster? Sun tanning accelerators are special lotions designed to help your skin tan more quickly and deeply when you are out in the sun or using a tanning bed. Choosing the right one can make a big difference in your tanning experience. Here is what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
Good tanning accelerators have features that boost your results. Look for these things when you shop:
- Tanning Enhancers: These are the main ingredients. They often include tyrosine, which helps your skin produce more melanin (the pigment that makes you tan). More melanin means a faster tan.
- Moisturizing Agents: Tanning can dry out your skin. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or Vitamin E. These keep your skin soft and prevent peeling.
- Bronzers (Optional): Some accelerators include bronzers (like DHA). These give you an instant, temporary color boost while your real tan develops underneath. If you want color right away, choose one with bronzers.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The ingredients inside the bottle determine how well the product works and how it feels on your skin. Always check the label!
- Melanin Stimulators: Tyrosine is the most common. Some advanced products use L-Tyrosine or Copper. These tell your skin cells to start tanning quickly.
- Skin Conditioners: Look for natural oils and vitamins. Shea butter, almond oil, and various fruit extracts nourish your skin. Healthy skin tans better.
- Fragrance: Tanning lotions can sometimes have a strong smell. If you are sensitive, choose an accelerator with a light, pleasant scent, or one labeled “fragrance-free.”
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all tanning accelerators are made equally. A few factors determine the quality of your experience.
What Makes Quality Better:
- Natural Oils: High-quality lotions use natural, cold-pressed oils. These absorb well and provide deep hydration.
- Advanced Formulas: Lotions that combine fast-acting accelerators with slow-release moisturizers often give a longer-lasting, deeper tan.
What Can Lower Quality:
- Too Much Alcohol or Mineral Oil: These ingredients can dry out your skin quickly. If your skin feels tight after use, the quality might be low.
- Old or Poorly Stored Products: Heat and sunlight can break down the active ingredients. Always buy from a trusted source and check the expiration date.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the accelerator affects your results. These products are designed for specific situations.
When to Use It:
- Before Tanning: Apply generously right before you go into the sun or tanning bed. You need UV light for the accelerator to work its magic.
- After Tanning (Maintenance): Some people use accelerator lotions as daily moisturizers *after* they have tanned. This keeps the color vibrant and skin hydrated.
The user experience should be smooth. The lotion should spread easily. It should not feel sticky once rubbed in. A good accelerator makes you feel ready to enjoy the sun, knowing your tan will develop beautifully.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tanning Accelerators
Q: How fast should I see results?
A: Most users see a difference after just one or two tanning sessions. The tan will look deeper than usual.
Q: Do tanning accelerators have SPF (sunscreen)?
A: Usually, no. Tanning accelerators are designed to help you tan, not protect you from burning. You must always apply a separate, proper sunscreen over the accelerator if you are tanning in the natural sun.
Q: Can I use this lotion indoors on my skin when I am not tanning?
A: Yes, many lotions work well as regular moisturizers to keep your existing tan looking fresh, but they work best when paired with UV light.
Q: Will this product cause me to burn faster?
A: It can, because it speeds up tanning. You must monitor your skin carefully. Never stay out longer than you normally would.
Q: What is the main difference between an accelerator and a bronzer?
A: An accelerator helps your skin make more natural color (melanin). A bronzer adds instant, temporary color using dyes or DHA, like makeup for your body.
Q: Are natural ingredients always better?
A: Often, yes. Natural oils and vitamins help prevent drying, which improves the quality and longevity of your tan.
Q: Should I use this on a tanning bed?
A: Yes, tanning accelerators are very popular for use in tanning beds because the controlled environment helps the ingredients activate well.
Q: How often should I apply the accelerator?
A: Apply it every time you plan to tan. Do not reapply during the tanning session unless the product instructions specifically say to do so.
Q: I have sensitive skin. What should I look for?
A: Look for lotions labeled “hypoallergenic” or those free from alcohol and strong perfumes. Always test a small patch of skin first.
Q: Does the color last longer with an accelerator?
A: Yes, because the tan develops deeper into the skin layers, it usually fades more slowly than a very light, surface-level tan.