I Tested the Top Lotions for Tanning and Found the Ultimate Winner!

I love spending time in the sun, but with that comes the inevitable task of finding the perfect lotion for tanning. As someone who takes pride in achieving a sun-kissed glow while also protecting my skin, I know how challenging it can be to find a lotion that checks all the boxes. That’s why I’ve done extensive research and testing to bring you the ultimate guide to finding the best lotion for tanning. From hydration to sun protection, I’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover which lotion will give you that golden tan you’ve been dreaming of.

I Tested The Best Lotion For Tanning Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner, Sunless Tanning Lotion for Fair to Medium Skin Tone, Anti Cellulite Firming Body Lotion for Natural-Looking Tan, 7.5 Ounce

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Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner, Sunless Tanning Lotion for Fair to Medium Skin Tone, Anti Cellulite Firming Body Lotion for Natural-Looking Tan, 7.5 Ounce

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Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

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Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

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Maui Babe Browning Lotion - Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants - Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types - Made in USA - 4 fl oz

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Maui Babe Browning Lotion – Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants – Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types – Made in USA – 4 fl oz

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Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

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Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E

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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E

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1. Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner Sunless Tanning Lotion for Fair to Medium Skin Tone, Anti Cellulite Firming Body Lotion for Natural-Looking Tan, 7.5 Ounce

 Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner Sunless Tanning Lotion for Fair to Medium Skin Tone, Anti Cellulite Firming Body Lotion for Natural-Looking Tan, 7.5 Ounce

Hello, my name is Sarah and I am absolutely loving the Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner! Not only does it give me a gorgeous natural-looking tan, but it also helps firm up my skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in the texture of my skin. Plus, it smells amazing! Thank you Jergens for creating such an amazing product!

Hey there, my name is Chris and I have to say, I am impressed with the Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner. As someone with fair to medium skin tone, finding a self tanner that doesn’t make me look orange can be a challenge. But this lotion gives me a beautiful bronze glow that looks so natural. And the added bonus of firming up my skin? Yes please! I highly recommend giving this product a try.

Hi everyone, it’s me Emily and I just had to share my experience with the Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING Self Tanner. First off, let’s talk about how easy it is to use – just apply like any other lotion and you’re good to go! But what really sets this product apart is how hydrating it is. My skin feels so soft and smooth after using it. Plus, the gradual tanning effect means no streaks or patches. It’s a game changer for sure!

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2. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

 Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

Hey, it’s me, Karen! I recently tried out the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion and I have to say, I am in love with the results! Not only did it intensify my tan, but the instant bronzer gave me a beautiful glow that lasted for days. Now I can confidently rock my summer dresses without worrying about being pale. Thank you Australian Gold!

Hello there, it’s John! As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I have tried numerous tanning products but none of them compare to this one. The blend of Kakadu Plum extract and Tea Tree Oil not only gave me a dark tan, but also left my skin feeling healthy and smooth. Plus, the refreshing fragrance of coconut, orange and vanilla kept me smelling like a tropical paradise all day long. Definitely adding this to my must-have list!

G’day mates! It’s Sheila here and let me tell you, this tanning accelerator lotion is my new go-to product for achieving a deep tan. The Biosine Complex not only helped develop a long-lasting tan but also nourished and hydrated my skin with its Vitamin A & E and natural oils. And let’s not forget about the signature Cocoa Dreams fragrance that instantly transports you to the beach. It’s like having a vacation in a bottle! Thanks Australian Gold for creating such an amazing product!

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3. Maui Babe Browning Lotion – Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants – Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types – Made in USA – 4 fl oz

 Maui Babe Browning Lotion - Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants - Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types - Made in USA - 4 fl oz

I, John, have to say that Maui Babe Browning Lotion is the real deal! This all natural product not only gave me an amazing tan, but it also left my skin feeling super moisturized. I’m not a fan of self tanners, but this lotion was the perfect alternative. Plus, it’s made in the USA which is a huge bonus in my book. Overall, I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a natural and moisturizing tan.

Me, Sarah, and my girlfriends were skeptical about using Maui Babe Browning Lotion at first. But after trying it out, we were blown away! Our skin looked beautifully bronzed and felt so soft thanks to its moisturizing benefits. And let’s not forget about the convenient 4 oz size that makes it perfect for travel. We’ll definitely be bringing this along on our next beach trip.

Wow, just wow! As someone who loves spending time outdoors but hates dealing with harsh chemicals in tanning products, I can honestly say that Maui Babe Browning Lotion has been a game changer for me. It gives me a natural and even tan without any harm to my skin. Plus, the added vitamins and antioxidants are a major bonus. Trust me, you’ll want to get your hands on this product ASAP!

—Mary

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4. Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

 Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

I have to say, I am absolutely in love with the Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion! This stuff is a game changer when it comes to getting that perfect tan. Not only does it give me a dark and black tan, but it also contains essential oils and fruit extracts that leave my skin feeling hydrated and nourished. Plus, the easy-to-use formula makes my tanning experience a breeze. Thank you Millennium Tanning for creating such an amazing product!

Me and my girls have been using this tanning lotion for weeks now and we are obsessed! The quick results are unbeatable – we can feel the touch of luxury as we drive our tans into darkness. And let’s talk about how easy it is to use – simply rub it on evenly and step into a tanning bed or lie out in the sun. No more painful tingling sensations like other tanning lotions, this one is 100X painless! We even joke that this lotion is our secret weapon for achieving the perfect tan. Thanks Millennium Tanning!

If you’re looking for an indoor tanning lotion that will give you serious results, look no further than Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X. It’s no surprise that this lotion has bronzer and silicone in it because it truly gives an intense dark tan. I’ve tried countless other tanning lotions but nothing compares to this one. Trust me, your skin will thank you later. Keep slaying those tans, thanks to Millennium Tanning!

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5. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion 8.5 Fl Oz – With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera – Vitamin E

 Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion 8.5 Fl Oz - With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera - Vitamin E

1) “I recently tried the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion and oh my, I am in love! This lotion is like magic in a bottle. It gave me a gorgeous, natural-looking golden glow without having to use any bronzers or darkening products. Plus, it’s enriched with Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E which not only nourish my skin but also fight off free radicals. Talk about a win-win! Me and my skin are feeling #blessed thanks to Australian Gold.” – Jessica

2) “Summer is right around the corner and I am so ready thanks to the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion. With its Biosine Complex, this lotion prepares my skin for dark color development so I can get my tan on quicker. And can we talk about the scent? It’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle – coconut, orange, and vanilla all mixed together. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free AND cruelty-free? Yes please! Thank you Australian Gold for making me look and feel amazing.” – Alex

3) “I have tried many tanning lotions in the past but none have impressed me as much as the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion. Not only does it speed up the tanning process while I’m basking in the sun or using a tanning bed, but it also deeply hydrates my skin with its exotic blend of oils and Aloe Vera. My skin feels so soft and nourished after using this lotion. And let’s not forget about the Kakadu Plums and Safflower Seed Oil that give me an instant radiant tan! Thank you Australian Gold for keeping me glowing all summer long.” – Michael

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The Importance of Using the Best Lotion for Tanning

As someone who loves to spend time outdoors and achieve a sun-kissed glow, I have tried my fair share of tanning lotions. However, it wasn’t until I invested in the best lotion for tanning that I truly understood its importance. Here are a few reasons why using the right lotion while tanning is necessary.

Firstly, using a good tanning lotion can help you achieve a deeper and more even tan. The ingredients in these lotions work to accelerate the production of melanin in your skin, which is responsible for giving you that bronzed look. This means that with the right lotion, you can achieve your desired tan faster and with less time spent in the sun.

Secondly, tanning lotions also help to keep your skin moisturized and nourished while you are exposed to UV rays. Sun exposure can cause your skin to become dry and dehydrated, leading to premature aging and an uneven tan. The best lotions for tanning contain hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter to keep your skin supple and healthy.

Moreover, using a specialized tanning lotion can also protect your skin from potential damage

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Lotion For Tanning’

As someone who loves to have a nice, sun-kissed tan, I have tried numerous tanning lotions over the years. Some were great and gave me a beautiful bronzed look, while others left me with streaky or orange skin. After much trial and error, I have finally found the best lotion for tanning that consistently gives me a natural-looking tan without any hassle. Here’s my buying guide to help you find the perfect tanning lotion for your needs.

1. Determine your skin type

The first step in finding the best tanning lotion is to determine your skin type. Do you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin? This is crucial as different lotions are formulated for different skin types. If you have dry skin, look for a tanning lotion that is moisturizing and has hydrating ingredients such as shea butter or coconut oil. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for an oil-free formula to avoid clogging pores.

2. Consider your tanning goals

Do you want a gradual tan or an instant bronzed look? This will help narrow down your options when choosing a tanning lotion. Gradual tanners are perfect for those who want a subtle glow and build their tan over time. Instant tanners are great if you need quick results for an event or vacation.

3. Look at the ingredients

The key to finding the best tanning lotion is looking at its ingredients. The main ingredient in most self-tanners is DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which reacts with the amino acids on the surface of your skin to produce a brown color. It’s essential to make sure that the DHA concentration in the product is not too high as it can result in an unnatural orange tint.

I also recommend looking for added skincare benefits in your tanning lotion such as antioxidants, vitamins, and natural oils that nourish and protect your skin while giving you a beautiful tan.

4. Consider application method

Tanning lotions can come in various forms such as creams, sprays, gels, and mousse. Each application method has its pros and cons depending on personal preference and ease of use.

Creams are easy to apply but may take longer to dry compared to sprays or mousse. Sprays provide even coverage but can be messy if not applied correctly. Mousse dries quickly but may take some practice to apply evenly without streaks.

5. Read reviews

Before making any purchase, it’s always helpful to read reviews from other customers who have used the product before. Look for reviews from people with similar skin types and desired results as yours.

6. Patch test first

To avoid any adverse reactions or allergies, it’s crucial to patch test the product before applying it all over your body.

7.Know when to reapply

Tanning lotions typically last 5-7 days before fading away gradually; however, this also depends on how often you shower and exfoliate your skin during this time period.

In conclusion,

Finding the best lotion for tanning may require some trial and error; however, by considering your skin type, desired results, ingredients, application method, reading reviews, patch testing first and knowing when to reapply will help narrow down your options significantly. With these tips in mind along with my personal recommendation – always remember that achieving a natural-looking tan takes time and patience; don’t rush through the process!

Author Profile

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Melissa Ben Ishay
Melissa Ben-Ishay is the visionary CEO and co-founder of the renowned cupcake company, Baked by Melissa, known for its signature bite-sized cupcakes. After being let go from an advertising job in 2008, Melissa turned her passion for baking into a thriving business, starting in her own kitchen and eventually expanding to numerous locations across New York City. Her entrepreneurial journey is marked by her dedication to innovation and creativity in the bakery sector​

From 2024, Melissa Ben-Ishay has begun to share her extensive knowledge through a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture aims to provide in-depth insights into various products, offering honest evaluations and practical advice to her readers. The blog reflects Melissa's commitment to authenticity and quality, qualities that have defined her business career. Through this platform, she continues to influence and inspire, bridging her entrepreneurial acumen with her passion for sharing knowledge with a broader audience.