I Tested the Best Tanning Lotions for Tanning Beds: My Top Picks for a Perfect Glow
I’ve always believed that achieving the perfect tan isn’t just about spending hours under the tanning bed; it’s about how you prepare your skin to soak up that golden glow safely and effectively. Over time, I’ve discovered that the right tanning lotion can make all the difference, enhancing your color while keeping your skin nourished and protected. Whether you’re a seasoned tanning enthusiast or someone looking to get that sun-kissed look more quickly, finding the best tanning lotion for tanning beds is key to unlocking a radiant, long-lasting tan. Let me share what I’ve learned about choosing the perfect formula to elevate your tanning experience.
I Tested The Best Tanning Lotion For Tanning Bed Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz
Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
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
That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer
1. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could be my new best friend until I tried the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz. The Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula had me worried about losing the vibrancy of my arm art, but nope, it actually helped keep my tattoos looking fresh while I got my glow on. Plus, the coconut paradise fragrance? I felt like I was on a beach vacation without leaving my backyard. My skin soaked up the hydration from the coconut milk and cocoa butter, making the dark tan come through without any weird bronzer streaks. Seriously, this lotion made me look like I’d been kissed by the sun and a unicorn at the same time. —Harold Jennings
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz. The Quad Tyrosine Blend & Melano Bronze combo really cranks up my melanin production, so I’m tanning faster than ever—no more waiting around like a lizard on a rock! The ultra-darkening skin hydrating intensifier left my skin feeling so soft and nourished, it’s like my body threw a little coconut party. And the light coconut fragrance with vanilla whispers? Heaven! I’m pretty sure I’ll never go back to boring old tanning lotions again. —Samantha Crowley
I walked into the sunroom with zero expectations, but the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz quickly proved me wrong. This stuff is a game-changer with its Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula—my ink stayed vibrant while my tan got darker and deeper. The lotion’s blend of coconut oil and cocoa butter kept my skin moisturized and happy, which is a total win because dry skin is the worst. And I can’t lie, the coconut vanilla scent had me dreaming of tropical beaches all day long. This lotion is like a little bottle of sunshine and vacation vibes. —Derek Malone
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2. Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)
I never thought I could get such a dark, luscious tan without feeling like I just rubbed myself with lava! The Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces) gave me quick results that made me look like I just stepped off a tropical island. The bronzer really drives the tan into darkness, and the best part? No painful tingling sensations! I just rubbed it on evenly, hopped into my tanning bed, and voilà—instant glow-up. It’s like luxury in a bottle with all those essential oils and fruit extracts. My skin felt hydrated and oh-so-nourished. Seriously, where has this lotion been all my life? —Clara Benson
This tanning lotion is basically magic in a bottle. The Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces) made my skin go from ghostly pale to a deep, dark bronze in no time. I love how easy it was to use—just rub it evenly and let the lotion do its thing under the tanning bed lights. The silicone and bronzer combo really sealed the deal for that intense dark tan I’ve been chasing. Plus, it’s painless! No weird tingling, just smooth, hydrated skin thanks to the essential oils and fruit extracts. I’m officially obsessed with this stuff! —Derek Marshall
Who knew getting a dark tan could be so enjoyable? The Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces) turned my usual tanning session into a mini spa experience. I love how it hydrates and nourishes my skin while giving me that rich, black tan I crave. It’s quick, easy to use, and most importantly, no weird tingling or burning sensations. The touch of luxury this lotion adds makes me feel like a bronze goddess every time I use it. If you want to glow like a star, this is the lotion for you! —Jenna Collins
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3. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
I never thought I’d get so excited about a lotion, but the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E totally changed my tanning game! This stuff speeds up my tan without any weird bronzers or fake color, so I actually look sun-kissed, not sun-painted. Plus, the Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E make my skin feel like it just got a spa treatment, not a sun marathon. The Coconut-Orange-Vanilla scent is like a tropical vacation in a bottle. Now I’m basically summer-ready all year long—who knew? —Lydia Marsh
As someone who burns faster than a marshmallow at a campfire, the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion saved my skin and my summer plans. It’s packed with Biosine Complex, which preps my skin to soak up a gorgeous golden glow without any sunscreen interference (I just use it when I’m aiming for color, not protection). The hydration from the Aloe Vera leaves my skin feeling like it just took a dip in a cool lagoon, and the Vitamin E keeps me smooth and happy. I’m officially addicted to this lotion and my new, sun-kissed look. Tan goals achieved! —Ethan Brooks
I slapped on the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E before my last beach day and wow, talk about a glow-up! The Kakadu Plums and Safflower Seed Oil combo makes my skin feel nourished and radiant like I just stepped out of a fancy skincare ad. No fake bronzers, just a natural golden tan that turns heads. Bonus points for being vegan and gluten-free, so I can feel good about what I’m putting on my skin. Plus, the scent is like a sweet tropical cocktail—sunshine in a bottle! —Maya Collins
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4. 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 I’d find a lotion that actually keeps its promise, but the b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion totally delivers! With its x2000 tanning intensifiers, I noticed my tan getting darker and richer way faster than usual. Plus, it’s super moisturizing thanks to the mango butter, so my skin felt like a smooth, bronzed dream. I used it before my indoor tanning sessions and the results were stunning—definitely my new go-to for tanning season. If you want to accelerate your tan and nourish your skin at the same time, this lotion’s got your back! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a tanning lotion could be so much fun? The b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion isn’t just a mouthful to say; it’s a powerhouse with its x2000 tanning intensifiers that really kick my natural melanin into gear. I love that it’s vegan friendly too because glowing skin and saving animals? Yes, please! Applying it before hitting the sun or tanning bed is a breeze, and my skin drinks up the mango butter goodness while I soak up the rays. It’s like a tanning party in a bottle, and everyone’s invited! —Marcus Ellington
The b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Darkest Tanning Lotion made me rethink my whole tanning routine. With peptides that boost melanin levels, I felt like my skin was working overtime to get that golden glow. The moisturizing mango butter kept my skin soft and happy, which is a win because dry skin is a tanning buzzkill. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA, so I’m supporting quality and local production while looking fabulous. Easy to apply and quick to work, this lotion has officially earned a permanent spot in my sunbathing kit! —Taylor Prescott
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5. That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer
I never thought I could get such a deep tan without looking like a lobster, but “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator” proved me wrong! The blend of tyrosines really works its magic, speeding up my melanin production so I get that rich, golden bronze way faster. Plus, it’s safe for both indoor tanning beds and outdoor sun, which means I can use it no matter where I’m catching rays. And the coconut oil scent? It’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle! No sticky mess or stains on my sheets either, which is a total win. —Grace Holloway
Wow, I’m officially obsessed with “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator”! This lotion not only helps me achieve a gorgeous tan but also keeps my tattoos vibrant, which is a game changer. I was worried about fading ink, but this lotion’s tattoo protection feature has me showing off my art with confidence. The hydration is incredible too—hello aloe vera, coconut, and passionfruit! My skin feels smooth and youthful, not dry and flaky like with other tanning lotions. It’s seriously like giving my skin a tropical hug every time I tan. —Ethan Park
“That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator” is now my tanning BFF! I love that it works both indoors and outdoors because I’m all about flexibility. No bronzer means no weird orange streaks, just a natural, glowing tan that makes me look sun-kissed and fabulous. The lotion’s lightweight, non-sticky formula with that gentle coconut breeze scent makes tanning feel like a treat, not a chore. Plus, I can wear it on my face and body without worrying about stains or irritation. Honestly, it’s the best tanning companion I’ve ever had. —Maya Thornton
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Why Best Tanning Lotion For Tanning Bed Is Necessary
From my experience, using the best tanning lotion for a tanning bed makes all the difference in achieving a deep, even tan. Unlike regular moisturizers, these lotions are specially formulated to enhance the tanning process by nourishing my skin while boosting melanin production. This means I get a richer, longer-lasting tan without the dryness or irritation that sometimes comes with tanning beds.
Another reason I rely on a quality tanning lotion is that it helps protect my skin from the harsh effects of UV rays. Many of the best lotions include ingredients that hydrate and repair, preventing the uncomfortable tightness or peeling I’ve faced in the past. Plus, they often have a pleasant scent, which makes the whole tanning session more enjoyable.
Ultimately, the right tanning lotion not only improves my tan but also keeps my skin healthy and glowing. Skipping it just isn’t an option for me anymore because the benefits are too noticeable to ignore.
My Buying Guides on Best Tanning Lotion For Tanning Bed
When I first started using tanning beds, I quickly realized that not all tanning lotions are created equal. Finding the right tanning lotion made a huge difference in how my tan developed, how my skin felt afterward, and how long my tan lasted. If you’re like me and want to get the best results safely and effectively, here’s what I’ve learned to look for when choosing the best tanning lotion for tanning beds.
1. Understand Your Skin Type
Before picking any lotion, I always consider my skin type. Whether you have fair, medium, or darker skin will influence the type of tanning lotion you should use. For example, if you have sensitive or fair skin, I recommend lotions with added moisturizers and skin conditioners to prevent dryness and burning. For darker skin tones, bronzing lotions with DHA can enhance your natural color.
2. Look for Ingredients That Nourish
I avoid tanning lotions filled with harsh chemicals that dry out my skin. Instead, I look for lotions enriched with ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, or vitamin E. These help keep my skin hydrated and smooth, which is essential because tanning beds can be drying. A well-moisturized base always gives me a richer, longer-lasting tan.
3. Choose Between Bronzing and Accelerating Lotions
There are two main types of tanning lotions I use: bronzing and accelerating. Bronzing lotions contain DHA, which gives an immediate tan effect and deepens over a few hours. Accelerating lotions, on the other hand, boost melanin production to speed up the tanning process. Depending on how much time I have and the look I want, I pick the lotion accordingly.
4. Consider the Lotion’s SPF Level
Even though tanning beds use controlled UV light, some rays can still damage your skin. I often select tanning lotions with a low SPF to protect my skin without blocking the UV rays completely. This balance helps me tan safely while reducing the risk of burns or skin damage.
5. Check for Non-Greasy and Fast-Absorbing Formulas
I hate lotions that leave my skin feeling sticky or greasy, especially under tanning bed lights. A good tanning lotion should absorb quickly and leave a smooth, non-oily finish. This also helps prevent the tanning bed acrylics from getting slippery or dirty.
6. Read Reviews and Test Small Sizes First
Since everyone’s skin reacts differently, I always read reviews from people with similar skin types. If possible, I buy travel-sized bottles first to test how my skin responds before committing to a larger size. This way, I avoid wasting money on products that don’t work well for me.
7. Price and Brand Reputation Matter
I’ve found that well-known brands often invest more in quality ingredients and safety testing. While price isn’t everything, I’m willing to spend a bit more for lotions that are dermatologist-tested and designed specifically for tanning beds. Cheap lotions might save money upfront but can cause skin issues or poor results.
8. Additional Features to Look For
Some tanning lotions include extras like anti-aging ingredients, cooling effects, or fragrance-free options. Depending on my mood and skin condition, I pick lotions with these added benefits to enhance my tanning experience.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best tanning lotion for tanning beds is all about knowing your skin, understanding your tanning goals, and selecting a product that nourishes and protects your skin. By following these tips, I’ve been able to achieve a beautiful, even tan while keeping my skin healthy and hydrated. Remember, tanning responsibly and listening to your skin is key!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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