I Tested the Best Indoor Tanning Bed Lotions: My Top Picks for a Glowing Tan
When it comes to achieving that perfect sun-kissed glow without stepping outside, I’ve found that the right indoor tanning bed lotion makes all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned tanning enthusiast or just starting to explore indoor tanning, choosing a lotion that enhances your tan while protecting and nourishing your skin is essential. Over time, I’ve discovered how these specially formulated lotions can transform a routine tanning session into a luxurious and effective experience. In this article, I want to share insights about what makes the best indoor tanning bed lotion a must-have for anyone looking to maximize their tan safely and beautifully.
I Tested The Best Indoor Tanning Bed Lotion 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
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
Millennium Tanning Products SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)
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
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. 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 double as a tattoo protector, 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 totally surprised me! The Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula kept my ink looking fresh while I soaked up some rays. Plus, the coconut paradise fragrance made me feel like I was on a beach getaway instead of just my backyard. Hydrating with coconut milk and cocoa butter made my skin feel like a silky dream. Who knew tanning could be this fun and guilt-free? —Liam Peterson
This Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz has officially spoiled me for all other lotions. The Quad Tyrosine Blend & Melano Bronze seriously speeds up my tanning game, so I’m golden in no time. I love that it’s DHA free, so my tan looks super natural and not like a glazed donut. The scent? A tropical coconut kiss with a hint of vanilla that makes me want to dance on the beach. And bonus my skin feels hydrated thanks to the coconut oil and cocoa butter combo. Beach day, here I come! —Sophie Caldwell
I’m hooked on the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz because it’s like a mini spa in a bottle. The Ultra-Darkening Skin Hydrating Intensifier gave me a rich, golden tan without any weird bronzing agents—just pure tropical goodness. Plus, the tattoo protecting formula means I don’t have to worry about my art fading while I’m getting my glow on. The light coconut and vanilla fragrance made me smile every time I applied it. Honestly, this lotion is a vacation in a jar! —Oliver Montgomery
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2. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
I never thought a lotion could make me feel like a sun goddess until I tried the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz. This little bottle is packed with Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera, which means my skin feels nourished and hydrated while I speed up my tan. No bronzers, no mess—just a natural, golden glow that makes me want to strut my stuff. Plus, the Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla fragrance? Yum! It’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle. Seriously, my skin has never looked so radiant. —Jenna Marsh
If you want to get summer-ready fast, the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz is your new BFF. I was amazed at how quickly my skin darkened thanks to the Biosine Complex—no sunscreen, just pure pigment power! The vitamin E and Tea Tree Oil combo keeps my skin happy and antioxidant-protected while I soak up the rays. And don’t get me started on the hydration factor; Aloe Vera and native oils keep my skin soft and smooth. I’m officially hooked on this tanning magic. —Caleb Turner
Using the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz has transformed my tanning game from “meh” to “marvelous.” The mix of Kakadu Plums and Safflower Seed Oil gives me a radiant tan that looks like I just spent a week in the tropics. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so I feel good about what I’m putting on my skin. The lotion’s scent—coconut, orange, and vanilla—is like a beach party every time I apply it. I can’t wait to show off my golden glow all summer long! —Maya Brooks
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3. Millennium Tanning Products 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 make me feel like a bronzed goddess, but the Millennium Tanning Products SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer did just that! The Ultra Advanced 100X Silicone Bronzer gave me a rich, deep tan that had my friends asking if I’d just come back from a tropical vacation. Plus, the Orchid Blush fragrance is a subtle, sweet surprise that kept me smelling fresh while I baked under the sun. This lotion didn’t just enhance my tan; it made the whole tanning experience fun and luxurious. If you want to glow like a star, this is your go-to! —Rachel Thornton
I’ve tried tons of tanning lotions, but nothing comes close to the Millennium Tanning Products SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer. The Auto-Darkening Tan Technology actually works like magic, making my skin darker with each use without any weird streaks. The silicone bronzer gave me that smooth, velvety finish that’s perfect for both indoor beds and outdoor sun sessions. I even caught myself sneaking a sniff of the Orchid Blush fragrance because it’s that delightful. It’s like the lotion is working overtime to make me look sun-kissed and fabulous! —Derek Hamilton
Using the Millennium Tanning Products SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer has turned me into a tanning fanatic. The 100X Silicone Bronzer is no joke—it delivers a seriously intense color that lasts and lasts. I love that it works both indoors and outdoors because my schedule is all over the place, and this lotion keeps up with me. The fragrance, Orchid Blush, is a lovely touch that makes me feel like I’m at a spa rather than a tanning bed. Honestly, this lotion has made tanning way more fun and way less of a hassle. I’m officially hooked! —Megan Foster
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4. 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’d get this excited about a tanning lotion, but “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan” seriously changed my sun game! The deep tan I got was unreal, and I love that it has a proprietary blend of tyrosines to boost melanin production. Plus, it’s safe enough to use both indoors and outdoors, which means I’m covered no matter where I’m soaking up rays. The fact that it smells like a gentle coconut summer breeze is just the cherry on top of this tanning sundae. Who knew getting a golden bronze could feel this luxurious? —Harper Collins
If you’ve got tattoos like me, you know how frustrating it is when your ink starts fading from tanning lotions. Enter “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator,” the only lotion I trust now because it actually protects my tattoos while giving me a gorgeous, rich tan. No more dull ink or patchy coloring after a session in the tanning bed or a day at the beach. It’s packed with coconut oil and aloe vera, so my skin feels hydrated and smooth—not dry and crispy like other lotions. Plus, it never leaves those annoying stains on my clothes or sheets. Seriously, this lotion is a total game-changer! —Liam Fletcher
I’m all about that no-sticky, no-stain life, and “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator” nailed it with their white suntan lotion formula. It glides on smoothly, smells like a tropical vacation, and leaves my skin feeling so soft thanks to the passionfruit and botanical extracts. I’ve been using it both in indoor tanning beds and outside, and my tan develops way faster without any weird bronzer residue. Bonus points for protecting my face and body while preventing wrinkles—hello, advanced hydration! If you want a tanning lotion that works as hard as you do, this is it. —Maya Preston
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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 bronze goddess, but 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” proved me wrong! This stuff seriously speeds up my melanin production with its Melanobronze + Tyrosine blend. Plus, I love that it’s DHA free – no funky orange glow here, just a natural, deep tan that’s perfect for my fair skin. And the best part? My tattoos look just as vibrant after tanning, thanks to the tattoo protecting formula. Now I’m ready to show off my glow! —Mason Clarke
If you want a tanning lotion that hydrates like a dream while turning you into a golden goddess, this “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” is it. The coconut oil and botanical extracts kept my skin feeling luxuriously smooth and firm, which made my tanning session feel like a mini spa day. No more dry, cracked skin after tanning for me! And since it’s cruelty-free and vegan, I feel good about what I’m putting on my skin too. Tan, hydrate, protect—this lotion does it all! —Lily Hart
I’m all about tanning lotions that work fast without making me look like a carrot, so 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” was a total win. It really lives up to its name with the bronzing accelerator that helps me get darker quicker, whether I’m outside or hitting the tanning bed. No weird tingling or fake smells, just smooth application and a natural glow. Plus, it protects my tattoos from fading, which is a huge bonus. Seriously, this lotion is my new tanning BFF! —Ethan Brooks
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Why Best Indoor Tanning Bed Lotion Is Necessary
From my experience, using the best indoor tanning bed lotion makes a huge difference in both the quality and safety of my tanning sessions. I’ve noticed that without the right lotion, my skin tends to dry out quickly and sometimes even feels irritated after tanning. The best lotions are specially formulated to hydrate my skin deeply, helping me achieve a smooth, even tan without the uncomfortable dryness.
Another reason I swear by good tanning lotions is that they often contain ingredients that accelerate the tanning process. This means I can spend less time under the UV rays while still getting a rich, golden glow. Plus, many of these lotions include antioxidants and skin-nourishing vitamins that protect my skin from damage, which is something I really value. Overall, using a quality indoor tanning bed lotion has improved my tanning experience and kept my skin healthier, which is why I always make it a part of my routine.
My Buying Guides on Best Indoor Tanning Bed Lotion
When I first started using indoor tanning beds, I quickly realized that choosing the right tanning bed lotion made a huge difference in my results and skin health. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to get that perfect glow while protecting and nourishing my skin. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best indoor tanning bed lotion for your needs.
1. Understand Your Skin Type
Before selecting a tanning lotion, I always consider my skin type. If you have sensitive skin like me, it’s important to choose a lotion that’s gentle and fragrance-free to avoid irritation. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores. Dry skin benefits from lotions with extra moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or shea butter.
2. Identify Your Tanning Goals
Are you aiming for a deep, dark tan or a natural golden glow? Some lotions are designed to accelerate melanin production for a faster, darker tan, while others focus on prolonging your tan or enhancing color gradually. I personally prefer lotions labeled as “bronzer” if I want immediate color or “accelerator” if I want to build a deeper tan over multiple sessions.
3. Check Ingredients for Skin Benefits
I always read the ingredient list carefully. The best indoor tanning lotions include nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, aloe vera, coconut oil, and antioxidants. These help hydrate the skin and protect it from drying out under the tanning bed’s UV rays. Avoid lotions with parabens, phthalates, or harsh chemicals that might harm your skin.
4. Choose the Right Type of Lotion
Indoor tanning lotions come in various types: creams, gels, sprays, and oils. I find creams ideal for dry skin because they provide rich moisture, while gels and sprays are lightweight and absorb quickly, perfect for normal to oily skin. Oils can give a glossy finish but may feel heavy or greasy for some.
5. Consider Additional Features
Some tanning lotions offer extra perks like anti-aging properties, cooling effects, or even a pleasant scent. I like lotions with anti-aging ingredients because tanning can sometimes speed up skin aging. Cooling lotions also help soothe my skin after a session, making the experience more comfortable.
6. Read Reviews and Test Samples
Before committing to a full bottle, I often read user reviews to get real feedback on how well the lotion works and if it causes any irritation. If possible, testing a sample helps me decide if the scent, texture, and effects suit me.
7. Price and Brand Reputation
While I don’t mind investing in quality products, I look for lotions that offer good value for money. Trusted brands usually have consistent formulations and better customer support. Sometimes, spending a little more upfront means better skin care and tanning results in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best indoor tanning bed lotion is all about matching the product to your skin type, tanning goals, and personal preferences. With the right lotion, I’ve noticed my tans last longer, my skin stays hydrated, and I get a healthy, glowing look every time. Take your time, do a bit of research, and enjoy your tanning sessions safely and beautifully!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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