People are always searching for ways to enhance their beauty. Getting tanned is a sure-fire way to accomplish that. A sun-kissed glow makes you feel healthier and sexier.
While baking in the sun is a great way to get tanned, prolonged UV exposure can cause sunburn and skin damage. That’s where indoor tanning comes into play.
Tanning bed sessions can help you achieve a golden glow quite easily. But remember that you’re still exposed to the UV rays of tanning beds. Therefore, it’s important you invest in the best indoor tanning lotion to protect your skin.
Such lotions accelerate the whole tanning process and help you achieve a deep, natural, and long-lasting tan while offering UV protection. In addition, they keep your skin hydrated and moisturized.
So, if you’re someone who craves immediate results, you need to get a tanning bed lotion now. But with so many options to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry! We’re here to help you.
Best Indoor Tanning Lotion Reviews
To save you time, we have collated a list of the best products on the market. Without further ado, let’s dive right in.
1. Australian Gold Cheeky Brown Accelerator Plus Bronzer
With a non-messy and foolproof formula, Australian Gold Cheeky Brown Accelerator has earned the top spot on our list. The formula is loaded with the goodness of native Australian oils and Vitamin E that add hydration and repair damaged skin.
It has a lightweight texture that goes on quickly and doesn’t feel greasy at all. Plus, you’ll love the subtle, clean scent.
The presence of henna extracts and caramel gives you a beautiful bronze color. Other ingredients such as fruit oil, tea tree oil, aloe vera gel, sunflower oil, etc. moisturize your skin and makes it softer.
You can expect an even, natural tan without blotchiness. Interestingly, you can also use it when you’re chilling in the sun. The lotion, however, doesn’t contain SPF, so make sure to mix it with SPF when using it as suntan lotion.
Overall, the product is pretty amazing. Although it’s not a self-tanner, it’s actually quite good to get your base tan and can be used for an advanced tan as well. In addition, the ingredients will make your skin healthier overall.
2. SunGodz Apollo/Artemis Indoor Tanning Lotion With Bronzer
Are you lusting after a full-on golden glow? Meet this powerful indoor tanning lotion from SunGodz. It has a bronzer to give you a deep dark and profound tan. On top of that, it is tattoo-safe. So, you don’t need to worry about your tattoos fading away.
As it doesn’t contain mineral oil, it’s perfect for tanning beds. Filled with the goodness of argan and coconut oil, it is sure to provide you with tons of other skin benefits as well. It is a multipurpose lotion. Use it on tanning beds and beaches without having to worry about anything.
After trying this product ourselves, we can say it is easily the best tanning lotion out there. It hydrates your skin and is also shower-proof. It won’t leave your skin orange and you won’t get that tingling sensation while using it. The fruity smell is quite appealing as well.
Also, it is DHA-free. The product is worth every penny. If only it had a bit more bronzer, that would’ve made it perfect. Other than that, it’s a very fine product.
Also: Best Tanning Bed Goggles to Protect Your Eyes
3. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion
Enriched with coconut milk and coconut oil, Ed Hardy’s coconut kisses golden tanning lotion is exactly what your skin needs for a long-lasting tan. The product doesn’t have a bronzer, but its tanning intensifiers give you a really dark and sexy tan.
It also contains melanobronze that increases melanin production and enhances the tanning process. The cocoa butter hydrates your skin and makes it silky soft. The lotion absorbs pretty quickly into the skin.
The product also offers tattoo protection. It has a very nice scent and is gender-neutral. So, both men and women can use it. If you already have a good base tan, this can help you get a more advanced and dark tan.
You also don’t have to worry about staining your clothes. Not only does it make your skin soft, but it also makes it healthier. Also, it doesn’t look too shiny on your skin and gives you a natural tan.
4. Australian Gold JWOWW One And Done Intensifier
If you crave immediate results, here’s another lotion from Australian Gold. It contains amino acids such as tyrosine that boosts melanin production and gives you that sun-kissed look. The goodness of shea butter, Vitamin A & E improve cell function and improve skin health.
It also contains beeswax and raspberry that lock in skin hydration and protect from environmental damage. Not only will you get that golden tan, but you will also get softer and healthier skin.
It also moisturizes your tattoos and protects them. You are sure to get streak-free skin. The lotion is perfect for tanning beds and can also be used outdoors. It is so effective that you will start seeing results after the first session.
It has a fruity smell which is actually good. The lotion doesn’t have a tingling effect and you will be able to maintain you tan for quite a long time using this product. It’s time to flaunt your sexy look!
5. Millennium Tanning Paint It Black, 50x
If you want a really dark bronze skin tone, it is the right product for you. The Millenium Tanning Paint It Black has 50x auto-darkening tan technology that will give you flawless dark tan. The product is well-received on Amazon and has over 2000 customer reviews.
It also has a silicone blend that gives you silky smooth skin. It enhances tanning results and firms your skin. You will get streak-free results with this tanning bed lotion.
The product also doesn’t have a tingling effect. And it’s suitable for all skin types regardless of their age and gender.
The perfect blend of caramel and tea tree extract moisturizes your skin and has anti-aging properties. The highlight of the product is its silicone blend that gives you supple and healthy skin.
Even if you have really pale skin, you will get a tan after a couple of applications. Also, you do not get orange skin. What you will have is a natural dark tan.
6. Devoted Creations #Tanlife Hydrating Tanning Butter
There is so much to love about this tanning lotion by Devoted Creations. First off, it’s a good choice to develop a base tan. It doesn’t have a bronzer. And you will get an even and natural tan.
More often than not, tanning beds can leave your skin dry. This lotion moisturizes really well and accelerates the results of your tanning sessions. A lot of customers have fallen in love with this product because it doesn’t stain your hands or clothes.
It absorbs into the skin quickly without making it greasy. This tanning lotion is a must-have for people with sensitive skin. Also, it is quite affordable.
This lotion is for a nice, natural, and even tan. So, don’t expect to get a dark tan after a couple of uses. It also offers tattoo and color fade protection. The product also contains matrixyl synthe 6 that fights signs of aging and firms your skin.
On top of that, it has AcquaCell complex to remove wrinkles and fine lines.
7. Hempz Dark Tan Maximizer, Hypoallergenic
Made from natural hemp seed oil, Hempz Dark Tan Maximizer is one of the best indoor tanning lotions when it comes to getting a dark tan that lasts longer. Ingredients such as oatmeal extracts absorb excess oil and treat dry skin.
Since oatmeal has antioxidant properties, you can get rid of your dead skin cells quite easily. This amazing product has mango seed butter that hydrates your skin and gives you a vibrant glow.
The product is 100% vegan and gluten-free. All its ingredients protect your skin in tanning beds and enhance your tan. Plus, its natural tan enhancers give you a golden tan.
Also, there are a lot of customers who do not like the smell of these lotions. If you’re one of them, this one’s for you. It is also fragrance-free. Once you start using this tanning lotion, you’re sure to fall in love with it.
It is lightweight and goes on your skin pretty quickly without making it greasy.
8. Tan Asz U LUAU Black 200X Bronzer
It is yet another exciting and the best indoor tanning lotion with a substantial amount of bronzer in it. The product works like a charm on any skin type be it dry, pale, or sensitive skin.
Also, you can get this lotion for half the price you will pay at the salon. So, it’s really amazing and works better than the stuff you get at most salons.
It has Hawaiin blend extracts that will make you look like Latin golden beauties. It has a DHA bronzer to give you picture-perfect tan. It’s one of the best tanning bed lotions but you can also use it outdoors.
Just make sure to apply some sunblock as well to prevent sunburns as the product doesn’t have SPF. Hawaiin butter and black charcoal present in the lotion cleanses your skin and gives you a golden glow.
It has a very pleasing scent and you will see the results after a couple of applications. Overall, it’s a great product and is priced quite reasonably.
9. Baja Bae Bronze Tanning Lotion
Made up of 100% natural ingredients, Baja Bae bronze tanning lotion is an amazing tanning bed lotion. It is a multipurpose lotion that you can use as a tan accelerator, a daily moisturizer, and can be applied on the face instantly for flawless bronze skin.
It is non-sticky and is very easy to apply. Ingredients such as jojoba oil, hibiscus, agave, and coconut oil moisturize your skin and keep it soft. The Mexican vanilla and caramel extract gives it a very pleasing scent.
The fact that you can use it both sunless and in the sun makes it stand out. Although it’s not a self-tanner, you can still use it with your foundation to get a golden glow.
It is perfect for every skin type. Also, it doesn’t contain DHA so your skin won’t turn orange. On top of that, it is streak-free and it won’t leave you with patchy skin.
Take note that the lotion doesn’t contain SPF. Therefore, it’s best to mix it with SPF sunscreen when used in the sun.
10. Supre – Snooki Ultra Dark 70X Black Bronzer
The product has a perfect blend of black walnut, henna extracts, and DHA that not only accelerates the tanning process during the session but also continues to darken your skin even after your tanning bed session is over.
It has a special formula that firms your skin, moisturizes it, and gives you a nice brown tan. The lotion also has coconut and almond oil that protects your skin from UV radiations while keeping your skin healthy.
The product also retains moisture in your skin so you don’t have to worry about your skin drying out after the tanning session. If you want orange-free and streak-free results, you should go with this product. It won’t disappoint you.
Customers have seen results only after 2 to 3 sessions with this bronzer. Also, your tan won’t fade away. It is specially formulated to retain your tan.
11. Ed Hardy Hollywood Bronze Bronzer Tanning Lotion
Another product from Ed Hardy on the list and you shouldn’t be surprised. It is undoubtedly one of the best bronzers for tanning beds. As the name suggests, you will feel like you’re a Hollywood celebrity with a golden glow.
It is also a multipurpose lotion acting as a bronzer, anti-aging lotion, and an accelerator. It has an amino-peptide complex that helps you get rid of fine lines and wrinkles. Infused with essential vitamins and oils, your skin will feel soft and supple.
This lotion is the secret to getting a deeper and darker tan. Want to get that radiant glow and look like a golden goddess? This lotion is a must-have.
This beige-colored bronzer does not streak and gives you golden brown tan. You don’t have to worry about turning orange as you do with low-quality bronzers. Customers use it outside as well but we don’t recommend using products with DHA for sun tanning.
Because if the skin absorbs DHA, you won’t get a deep tan during the sunless tanning session. It has a great price and does a better job than most salon lotions.
12. Designer Skin New Adore Black Label Bronzer Lotion
If we had to pick the top 5 indoor tanning lotions, this product would definitely make it to that list. Its perfect blend of ingredients boosts melanin production and gives you the darkest tan possible.
It has a natural bronzer that helps you get a dark golden skin with an even skin tone. Plus, streak-free results are guaranteed.
Unlike so many tanning lotions, it doesn’t leave your skin dry or orange. The silicone helps you get soft and smooth skin. Also, it doesn’t contain DHA and you can use it for sun tanning as well.
It has a sweet vanilla scent which is quite appealing to the senses. Also, the advanced moisture blend hydrates your skin and makes it young again.
Apply this lotion before your tanning bed sessions and you’ll see how effective it is. The lotion doesn’t leave that greasy or oily feeling. It absorbs quickly and actually feels great on the skin. Time to say goodbye to your pale skin!
13. Australian Gold Sinfully Black 15x Bronzer Tanning Lotion
Consisting of natural ingredients such as caramel, walnut extracts, and other bronzers, the Australian Gold Sinfully Black 15X bronzer is a powerful tanning lotion that gives you 15 times deeper tan than most lotions.
It also consists of hemp oil and sunflower oil to naturally moisturize your skin. A perfect fusion of sunflower oil, kukui nut oil, and essential vitamins softens your skin.
You will grow fond of its alluring berry scent. Also, the product doesn’t stain your hands, palms, or your clothes. And you will not get that orangey skin.
It is cost-effective and works perfectly as a bronzer. For anyone looking for the best tanning bed lotions, this is the product you should consider. It’s suitable for both genders.
Doesn’t matter if you have pale skin, you will get that darker tone after a few applications. And when you do, you won’t become a fan!
Some Important Tanning Tips
Getting tanned is a great choice. It makes you look beautiful and healthy. However, you should do your research before starting anything. Here are a few tanning tips that you should keep in mind:
- Educate yourself about tanning beds. Learn about UVA and UVB tanning beds, understand your requirements, and your expectations.
- Exfoliate your skin before going to a tanning session. This will ensure that you have an even tan that’s appealing to our eyes.
- With indoor tanning, avoid lotions that contain mineral oils. It can damage the beds.
- If you feel dizzy during your tanning sessions, it’s best that you avoid getting tanned indoors at all.
- Cover your eyes when you go tanning.
- Keep moving around and ensure that you’re getting evenly tanned.
- Cover the areas that don’t get much sun as they might be sensitive to UV rays.
- Don’t buy cheap tanning lotions. They won’t get you good results.
- Always do a patch test before applying lotion. It’s a good way to check whether the product is meant for you or not.
- If you’re using an indoor tanning lotion in the sun, make sure to mix some SPF in it.
- Be careful with the bronzers. They can stain your clothes.
Types of Tanning Bed Lotions
Indoor tanning lotions mainly fall under two categories: tingers and bronzers. Tinglers produce a heating or tingling sensation that increases the blood flow and helps accelerate the tanning process. Some people cannot tolerate this tingling sensation. Therefore, it’s best to do a patch test to see if it works for you.
Bronzers, on the other hand, contain DHA. Now, this DHA acts on dead skin cells and produce melanoidins. The melanoidins, in turn, create that browning effect on the skin by absorbing certain wavelengths of light.
Everyone reacts to products differently. Therefore, it’s best to do a patch test to choose the right product for you.
Benefits of Using Indoor Tanning Lotions
Well, you already know that indoor tanning lotions enhance your tan and accelerate the tanning process. But did you know that they provide other benefits as well? Here are some of those benefits:
Moisturize Your Skin
Tanning lotions moisturize your skin. They have natural moisturizers that keep your skin soft and healthy. Indoor tanning sessions can leave your skin dry. And dry skin doesn’t look attractive at all. So, if you want glowing & healthy skin, tanning lotion is important.
Prevent Uneven Tanning
The whole point of getting tanned is to look more beautiful and attractive. But an uneven tan can make things worse. It doesn’t look good at all. Therefore, to get an even and natural tan, you should use a lotion.
Nourish Your Skin
Ingredients present in tanning lotions condition your skin. Some products have anti-aging properties as well. Also, they make your skin firm and reduce fine lines while keeping it hydrated.
Keep You Cool
Some lotions contain ingredients to keep your body cool during your tanning session. Let’s face it – no one likes it when it gets hot during tanning. If you can’t stand that heat, look for the lotions that create a cooling effect.
How to Make Your Tan Last Longer?
Once you have beautiful brown skin, it’s time to preserve your tan. Your tan can fade away easily if you make mistakes. Here are a few tips that will help your tan last longer:
- Use gentle skincare soaps. Using harsh products can make your tan fade away quickly.
- Keep your skin moisturized. It will keep your tan from fading.
- Don’t shower too much.
- Don’t bathe in hot water. It will make your skin dry and flaky.
- Avoid using products that promote skin renewal.
- Don’t exfoliate your skin too much after your tanning session. It’s wise to wait a few days.
- Drink lots of water as it flushes toxins from your skin. Keeping your skin hydrated is the key as it will extend the life of your skin cells.
Conclusion
Tanning is a great way to enhance your personality and boost self-confidence. Since people do not have time, indoor tanning is a great alternative to sun tanning. You can accomplish so much in so less time.
Also, tanned skin is considered a sign of good health & wealth. So, if you’re planning to look good for the next party or event, indoor tanning is the way to go. And thanks to these indoor tanning lotions, you can get results pretty quickly.
What is your experience with tanning lotions? What is your favorite product? Share with us in the comment section below.
Happy Tanning!
Also:
Sheryll is a lifestyle editor with over 7 years of experience in beauty. She is obsessed with Korean skincare, and she mostly covers the Beauty and Skincare space at Skin Seas.
EdHardy’s Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion can be found in your local tanning salon. But, it is also available on Amazon. This product is a cross between a tanning intensifier and bronzer. There are no bronzing agents in the tanning lotion—making it appropriate for people with the fairest skin—but it will still provide increased melanin formation.