Do you crave that perfect, sun-kissed glow but worry about getting the best results from your tanning bed session? Many tanners face the same challenge: choosing the right lotion makes all the difference between a quick bronze and a long-lasting tan. It’s frustrating when you invest time and money into tanning, only to end up with a disappointing color or dry skin. The sheer variety of lotions—from accelerators to maximizers—can feel overwhelming, and you just want to know which one truly works for you.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what you need in a tanning bed lotion so you can stop guessing and start seeing real results. You will learn the secrets behind lotions that speed up color development and keep your skin looking healthy and vibrant. Get ready to unlock the key to your best indoor tan yet. Keep reading as we explore the essential ingredients and types of lotions designed specifically for tanning beds.
Top Suntan Lotion For Tanning Beds 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
- ✅Dark Star 5000X Bronzing is the darkest of dark!
- ✅Time-release complex continues to develop even darker
- ✅Mega-sculpting skin firming tones the appearance of skin
- ✅Tattoo Enhancing blend puts your ink in the spotlight
- ✅Vegan, No parabens-sulfates- gluten-phthalates- or animal testing
- Multiple Tan Intensifier + Melanin Stimulators for All Skin Types. Achieve your faster, deeper, darker, long-lasting tan with less exposure to the sun or sunbed with Jeallis tanning lotion for outdoor sun & tanning beds. Including Melanobronze + Tyrosine, this dark tanning accelerator stimulates melanin formation to accelerate the tanning process, helps achieve a natural tan that compliments all skin types. A prefect sun tan lotion choice even for people with fair pale skin.
- DHA Free. Jeallis outdoor indoor tanning lotion with bronzer and accelerator speeds up the tanning process while you bask in the sun or use a tanning bed, delivering natural golden glow results without the use of DHA or fake processes. The bronzing tanning lotion for tanning beds and sun activates the melanin in your skin so you get tanned faster but it doesn’t make you orange, tan intensifier for sun and tanning beds just makes you get to your natural tanned color.
- Ultimate Hydration & Skin Firming. People love how our indoor outdoor tanning accelerator helps prevent against wrinkles and signs of ageing. Contains coconut oil and botanical extracts that lock in moisture to provide intense, deep skin hydration, all of which are powerful antioxidants, this tan enhancer for sun and sunbed fights off free radicals, gently nourishes and cleanses your skin leaving it smooth, fresh, luxurious and supple, giving a maximum tanning experience.
- Tattoo & Color Fade Protectors. It’s time to say goodbye to tanning bed lotion that doesn't prevent your tattoos from fading. Our tanning accelerator lotion outdoor indoor actively creates a protective barrier that works to stop your ink from becoming dull and damaged from UV rays. Tattoo Protecting & Color Prolonging Formula in Jeallis indoor & outdoor tanning accelerator firms and softens skin, prolonging the life and radiance of your tattoos and tanning results for longer.
- Specially Formulated. Jeallis dark tanning bed lotion accelerator for outdoor sun & tanning beds with bronzer is specially for easy application and with coconut oil to be Vegan, Gluten Free, Cruelty Free for a rich, dark, radiant tan. Our sun & sunbed tanning lotion to get dark fast is specially formulated with a proprietary blend of tyrosines to help stimulate melanin production. Rub evenly to have that beautiful glow! No need to endure painful tingling sensations with this tan accelerator for tanning beds .
- 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 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.
- 𝟮𝟬𝟬𝗫 𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗥𝗔 𝗥𝗜𝗖𝗛 𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗡𝗭𝗘𝗥 : Experience a radiant transformation with our Solid Black Special Reserve 200X, a tanning lotion for tanning beds or outdoors, designed to bring the best dark tanning lotion results for a rich & opulent tan.
- 𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗧𝗢𝗢 & 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗥 𝗙𝗔𝗗𝗘 𝗗𝗘𝗙𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗘 : This solid black tanning lotion is infused with Tattoo & Color Fade Defense technology. Expertly blended with silicone to protect your tattoos and skin color richness, while providing a deep, even tan.
- 𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗧 & 𝗟𝗢𝗡𝗚-𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗘𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗖𝗧 : Discover the secrets of perfect tanning with our tanning bed lotion with bronzer. A women's and mens tanning lotion that offers immediate and long-lasting bronzing benefits, without worrying about discolorations.
- 𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗡𝗭𝗘𝗥 𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗦 : Take advantage of our carefully balanced bronzer tanning lotion for tanning beds / outdoors. Rich in DHA levels for a long lasting tanning experience, and made with natural bronzers for natural skin glow.
- 𝗦𝗞𝗜𝗡-𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 : Elevate your tanning experience as you embrace our skin-firming Millennium Tanning Products. We are a US based company committed to bring you only the most ideal glowing bronze and skin rejuvenation you could have asked for.
- [Deep, Dark Bronze] – Bust through your tanning plateau to the luxuriously dark tan of your dreams with The Sicilian 200X Black Bronzer. Our ultra-rich formula features high levels of DHA to give you a naturally gorgeous dark tan and healthy skin.
- [Youthful Glow] – There’s more to a stunning tan than just darker skin! That’s why we’ve formulated our tanning lotion with skin loving ingredients like Silicone, CoQ10, Walnut & Macadamia Oils for a soft, healthy & more youthful glowing radiance.
- [NO Post-Tan Odor] – Headed for a night out after your tanning session? The Sicilian tanning lotion is made with innovative odor blocking properties that won’t leave you with any unpleasant post-tanning aroma, so you can stay fresh while getting dark
- [Tan Anytime, Anywhere] – The Sicilian 200X Black Bronzer is the ultimate tanning companion for home, the beach or the tanning salon. An easy gradual tanning lotion mixed with light self-tanner gives you immediate results and long-term permanent tan
- [Premium Value] – Get the most out of your favorite tanning lotion & never worry about running out when you need it most! One bottle of The Sicilian 200X Black Bronzer packs a powerful 13.5 oz. of premium ingredients to keep you tanner, longer.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Suntan Lotion for Tanning Beds
Getting that perfect sun-kissed glow in a tanning bed requires the right preparation. Using the correct lotion makes a huge difference in your results and skin comfort. This guide helps you pick the best product for your next session.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for tanning bed lotion, several features stand out. These determine how well the lotion works and how your skin feels afterward.
Intensifiers vs. Bronzers
- Intensifiers: These lotions help your skin produce more melanin (the natural color in your skin). They do not contain coloring agents, so your results develop slowly over time. They are great for beginners or those who want a very natural look.
- Bronzers: These lotions contain ingredients like DHA (dihydroxyacetone) that temporarily stain your skin brown immediately upon application. They give you instant color while your natural tan develops. Look for cosmetic bronzers for immediate effect and natural bronzers for deeper color.
Moisturizing Power
Tanning bed UV rays can dry out your skin quickly. High-quality lotions must contain strong moisturizers. Look for ingredients like Aloe Vera or Vitamin E. Well-moisturized skin tans darker and holds the color longer.
Tingle or Cooling Agents
Some lotions include ingredients like Benzyl Nicotinate (a tingle agent). This ingredient increases blood flow to the skin’s surface, which some users feel helps deepen the tan faster. If you have sensitive skin, avoid high concentrations of tingle agents.
Important Materials in Tanning Lotions
The ingredients list tells you a lot about what the lotion will do.
Tanning Accelerators
These are the workhorses of tanning lotions. They often include amino acids or tyrosine, which are building blocks for melanin production. These materials signal your skin to tan more efficiently under the UV light.
Skin Conditioning Agents
Good lotions include natural oils and vitamins. Hemp seed oil, coconut oil, and various silicones help seal in moisture. These materials keep the skin soft and prevent that tight, dry feeling after a session.
Fragrance and Odor Eliminators
Tanning can sometimes leave a distinct odor on the skin. Many premium lotions include strong, pleasant fragrances or specific odor-neutralizing compounds to keep you smelling fresh.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all lotions are created equal. The quality directly impacts your tan’s appearance and longevity.
Quality Improvement Factors
- High Concentration of Accelerators: Lotions with a higher percentage of active tanning accelerators generally provide faster, deeper results.
- Advanced Delivery Systems: Some premium lotions use encapsulated ingredients. This means the beneficial materials are released slowly into the skin, improving absorption and effect.
- Added Skincare: Lotions featuring peptides or anti-aging ingredients often offer superior skin health benefits alongside tanning.
Quality Reduction Factors
- Mineral Oil or Heavy Petroleum: These ingredients can sometimes block UV rays from reaching the skin effectively, slowing down your tan. They also tend to sit heavily on the skin.
- Excessive Alcohol Content: Alcohol dries out the skin very quickly, counteracting the benefits of the tanning session and leading to a faded, patchy tan sooner.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the lotion matters just as much as what you buy.
When to Apply
Always apply tanning lotion immediately before entering the bed. The lotion needs time to absorb fully into the skin to work effectively with the UV light exposure. Do not apply it hours before; the ingredients work best when activated by the heat and light.
Use Cases Based on Experience Level
- Beginners: Start with an intensifier lotion that has no bronzer. This allows you to gauge your skin’s reaction to the UV light safely.
- Intermediate/Advanced Tanners: You can use lotions containing moderate to high levels of bronzers for a quick boost of color.
- Dry Skin Users: Always choose “maximizer” or “hydration-focused” lotions, even if you are using a bronzer. Prioritize moisturizing ingredients like Aloe Vera.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tanning Bed Lotions
Q: Do I need a special lotion just for tanning beds?
A: Yes, you should use lotion specifically made for tanning beds. Regular sunscreens block UV rays, which stops you from tanning. Bed lotions are designed to enhance UV absorption while moisturizing your skin.
Q: What is the difference between a maximizer and an intensifier?
A: An intensifier helps your skin make more natural color (melanin). A maximizer focuses heavily on intense moisturizing to make your existing tan last longer and look deeper.
Q: Should I use lotion if I am using a tanning wipe or towelette?
A: Yes. Even if you use a towelette for a quick color boost, you still need lotion to protect and hydrate your skin during the actual UV exposure.
Q: How much lotion should I apply?
A: Apply a thin, even layer over all exposed skin. You should use enough so your skin looks slightly dewy, but not so much that it drips or feels heavy.
Q: Can I use my regular body lotion instead?
A: No. Regular lotions often contain ingredients that block UV light or can cause uneven burning under the strong lamps of a tanning bed. Always choose a dedicated indoor tanning product.
Q: How long after tanning should I wait before showering?
A: If your lotion contains bronzers (DHA), you must wait at least four to eight hours before showering. Showering too soon washes off the cosmetic color before it has time to fully develop.
Q: Are “tingle” lotions safe?
A: Tingle lotions are generally safe for healthy skin. They create a warm, tingling sensation due to increased blood flow. However, if you feel burning or severe itching, wash the lotion off immediately, as you might be sensitive to the ingredients.
Q: Do bronzers stain my clothes?
A: Cosmetic bronzers can sometimes transfer onto light-colored fabrics, especially if you sweat or dress immediately after tanning. Wear dark clothing if you use a high-level bronzer.
Q: Is it necessary to use lotion every time I tan?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended. Lotion maximizes your tanning investment by helping you tan faster and keeps your skin healthy, preventing dryness and premature aging.
Q: Where is the best place to store my tanning lotion?
A: Store your lotion in a cool, dark place, like a drawer or cabinet. Heat and sunlight will break down the active ingredients, making the lotion less effective over time.