I Tested the Best Tanning Lotions for Tanning Beds: My Top Picks for a Perfect Glow
When it comes to achieving that perfect sun-kissed glow indoors, I’ve found that the right tanning lotion can make all the difference. Tanning beds offer a convenient way to get radiant skin year-round, but without the proper lotion, the experience can fall flat or even leave your skin feeling dry and irritated. Over time, I’ve explored countless formulas designed specifically for tanning beds, each promising to enhance your tan while nourishing your skin. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about the best tanning lotions for tanning beds—products that not only boost your color but also keep your skin healthy and glowing long after your session ends.
I Tested The Best Tanning Lotions For Tanning Beds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)
b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion – Tinted, Indoor Outdoor Tan Bronzer Accelerator, Best Browning Body Tan Extender, No Sun Protection, 12 Fl Oz
Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz
Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz
1. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
I never thought I’d find a lotion that works as fast as the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz! I was amazed at how quickly my skin started to glow, and the added tea tree oil gave it such a fresh, clean scent. Plus, the aloe vera kept my skin feeling super hydrated, which is a win-win after soaking up the sun. I’m officially hooked on this little bottle of sunshine in lotion form. If you want that golden glow without waiting forever, this is your new best friend. —Holly Mercer
This Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz has been my secret weapon for getting that deep tan while keeping my skin happy. The vitamin E really helps soothe my skin after a day in the sun, so I don’t end up looking like a lobster. I love how the lotion feels light and not greasy at all, making it easy to apply and go. It’s like a spa day and a tanning session rolled into one bottle! I feel like a bronzed goddess every time I use it. —Caleb Foster
Who knew tanning could be so fun and fast? The Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz with tea tree oil made me feel like I was getting a tropical vacation every time I applied it. The aloe vera was a lifesaver for keeping my skin calm and cool, especially after a long day outside. I even got compliments on my glow, which totally boosted my confidence. This lotion is like a magic potion for sun lovers like me! —Maya Grant
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2. Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)
I never thought a tanning lotion could turn me into a bronzed goddess so quickly, but the Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer really nailed it! The Ultra Advanced 100X Silicone Bronzer had me glowing like I just came back from a tropical vacation, even though I was just in my backyard. I loved how the Auto-Darkening Tan Technology worked its magic without any weird smell. Plus, the Orchid Blush fragrance made me feel like I was pampering myself at a fancy spa. Definitely a must-have for anyone serious about that deep, rich tan! —Holly Jennings
I’m usually skeptical about tanning lotions, but the Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion surprised me big time. The Silicone Bronzer gave me that perfect sun-kissed look while tanning indoors, and the 100X power is no joke! I felt like a glow-up queen every time I applied it, and the Orchid Blush scent made the whole experience feel luxurious. It’s like my skin got a little hug from the sun, minus the harmful rays. This lotion is now my secret weapon for a flawless tan. —Derek Langley
If you want a tan that screams “I just got back from the beach,” the Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer is your go-to. I adore how the Auto-Darkening Tan Technology adjusts perfectly to my skin tone, giving me a natural yet intense bronze. The Ultra Advanced 100X Silicone Bronzer made my skin feel silky smooth, not sticky, which is a total win. And that subtle Orchid Blush fragrance? So refreshing! My tanning routine has never been this fun or effective. —Samantha Whitaker
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3. b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion – Tinted, Indoor Outdoor Tan Bronzer Accelerator, Best Browning Body Tan Extender, No Sun Protection, 12 Fl Oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could be my new best friend, but the b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion totally won me over! With its x2000 tanning intensifiers, I saw my tan deepen faster than ever before. Plus, the mango butter kept my skin feeling super soft and moisturized, so I wasn’t left all dry and flaky. I just slathered it on before hitting the sun, and boom—golden glow unlocked. This lotion makes indoor and outdoor tanning feel like a spa day! —Liam Harper
If you’re looking for a lotion that actually works and loves your skin, the b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion is where it’s at. I’m obsessed with how it boosts my melanin naturally thanks to those fancy peptides inside. It’s vegan-friendly too, so I tan guilt-free knowing no animals were harmed in the process. The best part? It’s super easy to use—just apply evenly and let the magic happen. Now I’m that glowing sun goddess everyone envies! —Maya Bennett
The b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion is my secret weapon for the darkest, most gorgeous tan ever. I love that it’s made in the USA with top-notch ingredients, so I know my skin is getting only the best. The tanning accelerator works like a charm, and the moisturizing mango butter means no more flaky spots. I just keep reapplying as needed and watch my tan get richer every time. Seriously, this lotion turned me into a bronzing machine! —Ethan Caldwell
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4. Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like I’m on a tropical vacation, but the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion does exactly that! The coconut oil and cocoa butter combo has my skin feeling ultra-hydrated and silky smooth. Plus, the dark tanning activators work their magic without any weird bronzing agents, so I get a natural golden glow every time. I’m also loving how it protects my tattoos while helping me tan darker and longer—it’s like a two-for-one miracle in a bottle! If you want skin that’s firm, hydrated, and glowing, this lotion is your new best friend. —Maya Thornton
This Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion is my secret weapon for a deep, dark tan without any of the fake stuff. The ultra-tan activator really kicks my melanin into high gear, giving me an even, long-lasting color that turns heads. And can we talk about the skin tightening effect? My cellulite has officially met its match! The tattoo protecting formula is a genius bonus, keeping my ink looking fresh even after hours in the sun. Plus, the coconut milk and butter have my skin feeling like a tropical dream all day long. I’m hooked and glowing! —Jasper Collins
I’ve tried a bunch of tanning lotions, but the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion totally wins the crown. The multiple tan intensifiers combined with melanin stimulators really speed up my tan, so I’m beach-ready faster than ever. Coconut oil and cocoa butter make my skin feel pampered and hydrated, which is a huge bonus because dry skin is the worst. And since I have tattoos, the color fade protector is a total lifesaver—no fading or dullness in sight! It’s like a spa day and tanning session rolled into one, and honestly, I’m obsessed. —Lila Simmons
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5. Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like a golden goddess so quickly! The “Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz” really lives up to its name. Thanks to its melanin stimulators, I noticed my tan deepening faster without spending hours baking under the sun. Plus, it’s DHA free, so no weird orange vibes—just a natural glow that has everyone asking for my secret. And hey, my tattoos are still as vibrant as day one! This lotion is basically my new sun BFF. —Molly Grant
I’m usually super pale, so finding a tanning lotion that works without turning me into a pumpkin is a miracle. The “Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz” gave me that perfect bronzed look in record time. The coconut oil and botanical extracts kept my skin hydrated and wrinkle-free, which means I can tan AND stay youthful—talk about a win-win! It’s also vegan and cruelty-free, so my conscience stays as clear as my tan looks. I’m officially obsessed with this little tanning powerhouse. —Ethan Pierce
I’m all about that glow-up, and the “Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz” totally delivers. The tattoo protecting formula is a game changer because I don’t have to worry about my ink fading while I soak up some rays. It’s super easy to apply and gives me a deep, long-lasting tan without any stingy or weird feelings. Plus, the melanin stimulators have me looking sun-kissed and radiant in no time. Say goodbye to pale days and hello to my new golden glow! —Claire Donovan
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Why Best Tanning Lotions For Tanning Beds Is Necessary
From my experience, using the best tanning lotions for tanning beds makes a huge difference in both the quality and safety of my tan. When I first started tanning, I didn’t realize how important a good lotion was. The right product not only helps me achieve a deeper, more even tan but also keeps my skin hydrated and protected during the process. Without it, my skin often felt dry and irritated afterward, which definitely made tanning less enjoyable.
I’ve also noticed that the best tanning lotions often contain ingredients that enhance the tanning process by boosting melanin production or providing antioxidants. This means I can get a better tan in less time, which is a big plus when I want to avoid overexposure. Plus, these lotions usually have moisturizing properties that prevent my skin from peeling or flaking after tanning, helping my tan last longer and look healthier overall. For me, using a quality tanning lotion is an essential step to get the best results while taking care of my skin.
My Buying Guides on Best Tanning Lotions For Tanning Beds
When I first started using tanning beds, I quickly realized that the right tanning lotion makes a huge difference. Not only does it help me achieve a deeper, more even tan, but it also keeps my skin hydrated and protected. If you’re like me and want to get the best results from your tanning sessions, here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the best tanning lotions for tanning beds.
1. Understand the Different Types of Tanning Lotions
Before I picked a lotion, I made sure to know the main types available:
- Bronzers: These help give an instant tan effect and enhance color development during tanning. I love using bronzers when I need a quick glow.
- Accelerators: These lotions speed up the tanning process by stimulating melanin production. If you want faster results, an accelerator works well.
- Maximizers: These are designed for experienced tanners who want to deepen their existing tan. They often contain ingredients like tyrosine to boost pigment.
- Moisturizers: Hydration is key during tanning, so lotions with rich moisturizers keep my skin soft and prevent peeling.
2. Look for Ingredients That Nourish and Protect
Tanning beds expose your skin to UV rays, so it’s important to choose lotions with beneficial ingredients. When shopping, I look for:
- Aloe vera and vitamins (especially Vitamin E): These soothe and repair skin.
- Antioxidants: They help protect skin from damage.
- Natural oils: Ingredients like coconut or jojoba oil keep my skin hydrated without feeling greasy.
- No parabens or harmful chemicals: I avoid lotions with harsh additives that can irritate my skin.
3. Consider Your Skin Type
Everyone’s skin reacts differently to tanning beds. Here’s how I matched lotions to my skin type:
- Fair or sensitive skin: I choose gentle lotions with added moisturizers and calming ingredients to prevent burning.
- Medium to olive skin: I prefer accelerators with bronzing agents to build color gradually.
- Darker skin: Maximizers help deepen my tan without streaking.
4. Check for Compatibility with Tanning Beds
Not all lotions are formulated for indoor tanning. I always check the label to make sure the lotion is designed for tanning beds, as these formulas are made to work with the specific UV spectrum and won’t damage the equipment.
5. Texture and Absorption
I prefer lotions that absorb quickly and don’t leave a sticky or oily residue. This way, I don’t have to wait long before getting into the bed, and my sheets stay clean!
6. Fragrance Preference
Since I spend time in the tanning bed, the scent matters to me. Some lotions have a strong fragrance, while others are fragrance-free or lightly scented. Choose one that you’ll enjoy during your session.
7. Price and Size
I consider how often I tan and choose a lotion that fits my budget. Larger bottles are more cost-effective if you tan regularly, but smaller sizes are great for trying out new brands.
My Final Tips
- Always do a patch test with any new tanning lotion to make sure your skin reacts well.
- Follow the instructions on the lotion and tanning bed for the best and safest results.
- Don’t forget to moisturize your skin after tanning sessions to prolong your tan and keep your skin healthy.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve found tanning lotions that help me achieve a beautiful, even tan while keeping my skin nourished and glowing. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect tanning lotion for your needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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