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 learned that not all tanning lotions are created equal. Good tanning lotions for tanning beds can make a world of difference—not just in how quickly and deeply your skin tans, but also in how it feels and looks afterward. Whether you’re a tanning newbie or a seasoned pro, finding the right lotion is key to enhancing your experience and protecting your skin. Let me share why choosing the right formula matters and how it can elevate your tanning routine to a whole new level.
I Tested The Good Tanning Lotions For Tanning Beds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC
HEMPZ Good Vibes 15X Positively Dark Bronzer – Herbal Moisturizing Self Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds, Beach, Sun 8.5 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. 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 feel like a tropical vacation, but the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz totally proved me wrong. The coconut milk and cocoa oil combo made my skin so hydrated, it was like I was glowing from the inside out. Plus, the dark tanning activators gave me a golden tan that looked natural, with zero weird orange vibes. My tattoos even looked sharper, which is a huge win because I’m pretty attached to them. Honestly, this lotion made tanning feel less like work and more like a treat! —Carla Benson
If you told me that a tanning lotion could tighten my skin and reduce cellulite while turning me into a bronzed goddess, I would’ve laughed. But here I am, obsessed with the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz. The ultra-tan activator really kicked my melanin production into high gear, and I was turning heads by day three. The best part? My tattoos stayed vibrant, which means I can show off my art without fading worries. Coconut butter and oils had my skin feeling silky soft, like I just stepped out of a spa. I’m officially a fan forever. —Jared McIntyre
I’m pretty sure the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz is a magical potion in disguise. The multiple tan intensifiers gave me a deep, even tan faster than I ever expected, and my skin felt super nourished thanks to the coconut milk and butter. I love that it’s age-defying, so while I’m catching rays, I’m also fighting off wrinkles like a boss. Tattoo protection? Check. Hydration? Double check. This lotion turned my tanning routine from “meh” to “heck yes!” —Elena Foster
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2. 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 sun goddess until I tried 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. The melanin stimulators seriously work wonders—my tan deepened faster than I expected, and I didn’t have to fry myself in the sun for hours. Plus, the tattoo-protecting formula kept my ink looking fresh while I got my glow on. It’s like a spa day and a tanning session rolled into one lotion. I’m hooked! —Carla Jennings
This Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan had me feeling like a bronzed beach babe in no time. The coconut oil and botanical extracts gave my skin such amazing hydration that I swear my skin felt smoother and firmer after every use. No orange tint, just a natural, rich tan that made me want to skip my usual foundation. And since it’s DHA free, I didn’t have to worry about weird chemical smells or streaks. Definitely a must-have for anyone serious about tanning. —Derek Simmons
I’m not usually one to rave about lotions, but the Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan blew me away. The tan intensifier with Melanobronze + Tyrosine gave me a deeper, longer-lasting tan without that scary sunburn look. The best part? My tattoos stayed vibrant and didn’t fade like they usually do after sun exposure. It’s like this lotion was made just for me and my wild tattoo collection! I’m stocking up before summer hits again. —Lindsay Harper
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3. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC
I slathered on the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula before hitting the beach, and wow, my tan deepened faster than I could say “sunshine!” The instant bronzer gave me a gorgeous glow right away, and the lotion absorbed super quickly, so I didn’t have to wait around looking like a shiny disco ball. Plus, the Cocoa Dreams fragrance had me smelling like a tropical vacation all day long. Honestly, it felt like my skin was getting a little spa treatment with all those natural oils and vitamins packed in there. I’m officially hooked! —Megan Cooper
This Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula is like a magic potion for my skin. The blend of Kakadu Plum extract and Tea Tree Oil made my skin feel so nourished and smooth, which is a rare combo when you’re chasing a deep, dark tan. I love that it doesn’t have sunscreen, so I can control my tan development, and the hydration from Vitamins A and E kept my skin feeling soft, not crispy. The scent? It’s like a tropical breeze hit me with notes of coconut, orange, and vanilla—total beach vibes in a bottle! I’ll never tan without it again. —Derek Mills
I’ve tried tons of tanning lotions, but the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula stands out like a shiny seashell on the sand. This stuff not only helped me achieve a darker, longer-lasting tan thanks to its Biosine Complex, but it also made my skin feel hydrated and super smooth. The instant bronzer is a game changer for that quick glow boost, and the refreshing Cocoa Dreams fragrance kept me smelling sweet without being overpowering. It’s like my personal tan cheerleader in a bottle! I’m already planning my next sunny day with this lotion in my beach bag. —Lydia Banks
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4. HEMPZ Good Vibes 15X Positively Dark Bronzer – Herbal Moisturizing Self Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds, Beach, Sun 8.5 Fl OZ
I never thought a self-tanning lotion could double as a mood booster until I tried the “HEMPZ Good Vibes 15X Positively Dark Bronzer – Herbal Moisturizing Self Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds, Beach, Sun 8.5 Fl OZ.” This stuff packs a punch with its 15X bronzing power, turning my pale winter skin into a sun-kissed goddess in no time. Plus, it’s loaded with hemp seed oil, so my skin stays soft and hydrated instead of feeling like a dried-out raisin. The fast-absorbing formula means I can get dressed right after application without worrying about sticky hands or orange stains. If you want a deep, dark tan and some serious skin nourishment, this is your go-to. Who knew tanning could be this fun? —Molly Cartwright
Talk about tanning magic! The “HEMPZ Good Vibes 15X Positively Dark Bronzer – Herbal Moisturizing Self Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds, Beach, Sun 8.5 Fl OZ” gave me a glow so rich, I caught myself admiring my own reflection a little too much. The vitamins and antioxidants in this lotion make me feel like I’m feeding my skin a gourmet meal while I bronze. It’s paraben-free, so I’m not just glowing on the outside but feeling good about what I’m putting on my body too. Whether I’m hitting the tanning bed or catching some rays outside, this lotion never fails to deliver a luscious, deep tan. Who knew good vibes and great tans could come in one bottle? —Ethan McAllister
I’m officially obsessed with the “HEMPZ Good Vibes 15X Positively Dark Bronzer – Herbal Moisturizing Self Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds, Beach, Sun 8.5 Fl OZ.” This lotion’s anti-aging properties make me feel like I’m turning back the clock while getting the deepest tan ever. It’s like a spa day in a bottle, with hemp seed oil that keeps my skin smooth and happy. I love how quickly it absorbs—no awkward sticky moments or waiting around. Whether indoors under the tanning bed or out at the beach, my skin looks flawless and radiant. If you want to glow and grow younger (sort of), this is the one! —Jenna Whitaker
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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 a tanning lotion could feel like a tropical vacation until I tried “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan.” The way it locks in moisture with coconut oil and aloe vera makes my skin feel as smooth as silk, and I swear my tan gets deeper faster thanks to the tyrosines boosting melanin. Plus, it’s safe for both indoor tanning beds and outdoor sun sessions, which means I can use it all year round without worry. The best part? No sticky residue or stains—just a subtle coconut breeze scent that puts me in a good mood every time. If you want a glow that turns heads and feels amazing, this is your go-to! —Clara Jennings
Who knew tanning lotion could double as tattoo protection? “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan” not only gave me that rich, golden bronze I crave, but it also kept my tattoos vibrant and fresh. I’ve used lotions before that made my ink look faded, but this stuff is a game-changer! Plus, it’s loaded with passionfruit and botanical extracts, so my skin stayed hydrated and wrinkle-free after every session. No stains, no fuss, just a flawless tan and happy skin. I’m officially a fan for life! —Marcus Holloway
I’m all about tanning safely and effectively, so when I found “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan,” I was thrilled. This lotion’s blend of tyrosines helped me achieve a deep tan way faster than usual, and I love that it’s been dermatologist-tested for safety. The coconut oil and aloe vera combo keeps my skin super hydrated, making me feel like I just stepped off a beach vacation every time I use it. Plus, it smells like a gentle summer breeze, which makes tanning way more enjoyable. No sticky mess, no stains—just pure tanning joy! —Evelyn Porter
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Why Good Tanning Lotions For Tanning Beds Are Necessary
From my experience, using good tanning lotions in tanning beds makes a huge difference in both the quality and safety of my tan. When I started tanning without lotion, my skin often felt dry and looked uneven afterward. A quality tanning lotion helps keep my skin hydrated, which not only makes the tanning process more comfortable but also results in a smoother, more natural-looking tan.
I’ve also noticed that good tanning lotions often contain ingredients that enhance the tanning process itself, helping me achieve a deeper, longer-lasting color. They can boost melanin production or provide a protective barrier, so I get the most out of each session without overdoing it. Plus, some lotions include soothing agents that calm my skin and reduce redness, which is a big plus after spending time in the tanning bed.
Overall, using a proper tanning lotion has made my tanning sessions more effective and enjoyable. It’s a simple step that protects my skin and improves the final result, and now I wouldn’t tan without it.
My Buying Guides on Good Tanning Lotions For Tanning Beds
When I first started using tanning beds, I quickly realized that not all tanning lotions are created equal. Choosing the right lotion can make a huge difference in how my skin looks and feels after each session. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you pick the best tanning lotion for your needs.
1. Understand Your Skin Type
Before buying any tanning lotion, I took a close look at my skin type. If you have fair skin that burns easily, you’ll want a lotion with more moisturizing ingredients and maybe some built-in SPF for protection. If your skin tans easily, you can opt for lotions that enhance your tan faster or provide a deeper bronze. Knowing your skin type helped me choose lotions that worked best without irritating my skin.
2. Choose Between Bronzing and Accelerating Lotions
There are mainly two types of tanning lotions I use depending on my tanning goals:
- Bronzing lotions: These contain pigments that immediately give your skin a darker tone during tanning. I love using these when I want instant color and a boost to my natural tan.
- Accelerating lotions: These help speed up the tanning process by stimulating melanin production. When I want to build a gradual, deeper tan over several sessions, these are my go-to.
3. Look for Moisturizing Ingredients
Tanning beds can be drying, so I always pick lotions with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or coconut oil. Keeping my skin moisturized not only feels great but also helps maintain my tan longer. A lotion that leaves my skin soft and nourished makes every tanning session more enjoyable.
4. Check for Added Skin Benefits
Some lotions come packed with antioxidants, vitamins (like Vitamin E), or anti-aging ingredients. I prefer these because they protect my skin from damage and help keep it looking youthful. If you’re concerned about skin health, these added benefits are definitely worth considering.
5. Consider the Scent
I’ve tried tanning lotions with strong chemical smells, and honestly, it can be unpleasant. I now look for lotions with a light, pleasant scent or even fragrance-free options if you’re sensitive. A nice-smelling lotion makes the whole tanning experience more relaxing.
6. Avoid Lotions with SPF for Tanning Beds
Since tanning beds use controlled UV rays, lotions with SPF can block the rays and reduce tanning effectiveness. I always double-check the label and avoid SPF lotions when using tanning beds to ensure I get the best results.
7. Read Reviews and Test Samples
One of the best tips I can share is to read reviews from other users and, if possible, test sample sizes before committing to a full bottle. Everyone’s skin reacts differently, so trying out a lotion helps me find the perfect match without wasting money.
8. Price vs. Quality
I found that more expensive lotions don’t always guarantee better results, but very cheap ones may lack essential ingredients. I aim for a balanced choice that offers quality ingredients and good performance without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right tanning lotion for tanning beds took some trial and error, but once I focused on my skin type, hydration, and lotion type, the process became much easier. Remember to keep your skin healthy and moisturized to enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting tan. Happy tanning!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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