Time and again, people say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This is maybe one reason why people go to beaches and tanning salons in search of the healthiest bronze skin tone. Truly, sun-kissed tan skin is in.

So before you start your own quest for that perfect bronze skin, and invest hard earned money, let us guide you by breaking down everything you need in deciding the best tanning lotion for your skin. We believe that this information will narrow down your options according to your needs. Let’s get started.

How to Choose the Best Tanning Lotion for Your Skin

Knowing and getting the best indoor tanning lotions on the market does not always mean that you have chosen the best tanning lotion for your skin. Having a vast array of selection from cheap tanning lotion to expensive natural tanning lotion will leave you overwhelmed and buying the product that first catches your attention. Not really a practical thing to do. Here’s how you should start.

Know your skin type.

Some products work best on oily skin while others are formulated for those who have sensitive skin. On the other hand, having a dry skin needs a different attention. If your skin is more sensitive, choose a product that clearly uses natural ingredients or naturally-derived contents and mild formulation such as coconut water and argan oil.

Having an oily or skin that is prone to acne should avoid oil-based tanning lotions and try to look for natural ingredients such as stabilized aloes (Aloe Barbadensis) and vitamin E enriched formulation. Such ingredients have cleansing properties that will protect your skin while keeping it less oily. Another option for oily skin is spray preparations or mousse since these are lighter in weight and more refreshing.

Tanning lotions with optimum hydrating ingredients and formulation will definitely relax your dry skin type. Regularly applying skin moisturizers before and after tanning refreshes your dry skin, especially elbows and knees. Coconut-based mousse and mist spray combined with argan oil contribute well in hydrating dry skin.

Determine the kind of tanning that you want to achieve.

There are two types of UV rays that come from the sun. There is what we call the UVA and UVB. UVB rays the ones needed in tanning the skin. On the other hand, UVB rays must be screened so as not to burn your skin. Allowing your skin to absorb more UVA light, the more the skin adapts and make it darker or tanner. That is why if you need to achieve a base tan complexion, you may want to take time patiently while allowing the tanning process in more than a day.

Being impatient on tanning your skin right away, maybe one day or less, is the best recipe for sunburn and skin damage. Bear in mind that the tanning process is a slow but sure procedure and not an express process.

Choose between Outdoor tanning and Indoor tanning.

Products with sunscreen protection are highly recommended if you choose outdoor tanning. Sunscreen ingredients will block UV rays, prevent sunburns and definitely help avoid premature skin aging. On the other hand, Indoor tanning which uses tanning beds and tanning lamps, require tanning lotions that rarely contain sunscreen ingredients. Indoor tanning lotions block artificial UV rays only and formulated with safe components that will not damage the tanning equipment.

Check the SPF level.

SPF levels of tanning lotions are strictly formulated in laboratories to make sure you get the right protection for your skin type, tanning exposure and the tanning you want to achieve. SPF-50 tanning lotions approximately allow 1/50 of the sun’s UV rays to get through your skin. This is equivalent to roughly 98% protection from UV rays. SPF-100 lotions will protect the skin at 99%. However, skin protection from the sun’s burning rays may vary depending on the amount tanning lotion applied as required by the manufacturer based on their formulation and frequency of reapplication.

Generally, SPF levels or ratings lower than 50 may be sufficient if exposure to the sun is less than two hours. But, if you will be exposing your skin more than two hours, it is recommended that you use higher SPF levels of tanning lotions and make a reapplication every two hours or as prescribed by the manufacturer.

What Tanning Lotion Gets You the Darkest?

Tanning lotions with bronzer intensify the tanning process by making your skin darker in a shorter period of time even though your exposure to sunlight is minimal. Though lotions with bronzers have lower SPF levels compared with regular tanning lotions, it contains some type of protection from harmful UV rays. Bronzers usually contain natural pigments or DHA (dihydroxyacetone) which is an amino acid derived from sugar cane approved by FDA to be a safe ingredient on effectively darkening the skin.

How to Get a Perfect Tan Indoors

Getting the perfect tan indoors requires not only knowing the best indoor tanning lotions but also being available to identify its types and the indoor tanning accessories available for your skin. Most people especially women with fair skin or pale skin type wish to have that sporty and healthier look coming from the sun but are afraid of that exposure. Tanning beds & other indoor equipment, matched with right accessories will get the job done.

Remember, there are three types of indoor tanning lotions that you need to be aware of to start the process. First, we have the common indoor tanning lotion known as accelerators which are also called intensifiers and are formulated to highlight and prolong the results of your indoor tanning. Beginners loved it because of its mildness and they don’t have color dyes or bronzing ingredients but formulated with ample amount of moisturizers.

Next is a more aggressive but more effective tanning lotion ideal once you have achieved a base tan. These are called tinglers. These are hot action lotions with active components that enhances blood flow in the skin and delivery of needed oxygen to the skin cells. Its common active ingredient is benzyl or methyl nicotinate that cause tingling to mild burning sensation while tanning. Afterward, a cooling effect is achieved. The third one is called bronzers as discussed earlier. Deeper and darker tan can be obtained due to its added coloring ingredients. Bronzers are recommended for those who have a base tan already.

For your indoor tanning accessories, you may check for exfoliating loofah pads, thin nipple cover pasties, reusable silicon breast stickies, lip balm and disinfectant cleaner for your equipment.

How Many Times a Week Should You Tan in a Bed?

It is recommended that an interval of three to four days must be made between each session to fully achieve a base tan. Then you may proceed with a two to three times a week program and gradually increasing your indoor tanning time. Your desired tan must be maintained by tanning twice a week in a tanning bed.

Having the best tanning bed lotion will not only protect your skin but also maintain the durability of your equipment. So it is important to choose the prescribed or appropriate tanning bed lotion before going to that tanning program.

The Best Indoor Tanning Lotions You Can Try

Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion

Ed Hardy tanning lotion contains coconut milk and coconut oil that are natural skin moisturizers and effective agents to give your skin a flawless natural tan. As it is formulated with coconut oil, it hydrates your skin and works as a tanning intensifier to give your skin a dark golden tan the quickest way possible. Moreover, the combination of melactiva, melano bronze and quad tyrosine blend encourage melanin formation to accelerate tanning process.

For best results, you should leave the tanning lotion on for 2 to 4 hours after tanning. Others leave it on for the rest of the day. Apart from its tanning properties, it contains ingredients that defy signs of aging such as wrinkles and minimize the appearance of other skin issues such as cellulites.

Whether you use it for outdoor or indoor tanning, it will work completely well.

Millenium Tanning New Solid Black Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion

Millenium Tanning New Solid Black lines up along the top tanning lotions that give your pale and fair skin the darkest tan you want. This best-seller has an auto-darkening tan technology that helps your skin achieve the desired tan shade when you undergo indoor tanning.

As an indoor tanning lotion, Millenium Tanning New Solid Black goes smoothly on the skin without staining your clothes or leaving any streaks. It works as a silicone bronzer that moisturizes the skin while helping it get a darker and deeper tan. But as it gives your skin a nice bronze boost, it blends in with the skin naturally without hints of orange shades or fake tan color.

Millennium Tanning Paint It Black 50X

MIllenium Tanning Paint it Black 50x swears by two essential benefits: stunning dark tan and long-lasting hydration. It contains an extreme silicone emulsion blend that takes good care of the skin and leaves it soft and smooth after tanning. The 50x auto darkening technology, on the other hand, carries out dark bronze tanning that you can just flaunt all day out on the beach or on a fine summer day.

This indoor tanning lotion gives off a fragrant smell with its fresh and clean blossom fragrance. As it glides smoothly on your skin, it doesn’t leave any greasy feeling and every dab and stroke get you closer to the darkest tan you desire.

Brown Sugar BLACK CHOCOLATE COCONUT CREAM

That natural sun-kissed tan isn’t far-fetched. Tanning lotions that are formulated with natural ingredients and bronzers do get the job done to give your skin the darkest tan. Just like the Brown Sugar Black Chocolate Coconut Cream, it is formulated with extracts of double dark chocolate and argan. Definitely a sweet treat for your skin! These tanning agents work with triple coconut cocktail and max silicones that unleash the skin’s softness and natural glow.

As paraben and DHA are known cause harsh effects on the skin, Brown Sugar Black Chocolate Coconut Cream cross these ingredients out of the list. Hence, paraben-free and DHA-free. It gives a gentle touch to those who have sensitive skin.

Australian Gold, CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers

You can definitely achieve that gorgeous tan all while enjoying the nourishing benefits of Vitamin A and E infused in the Australian Gold CHEEKY BROWN Accelarator Dark Natural Bronzers. Whether you go for indoor and outdoor tanning, you can lather enough amount on your skin. As you indulge in the summer’s heat by the beach or right under a tanning machine, Australian Gold Cheeky Brown will come to rescue your ghostly pale skin and give it a natural tan.

It doesn’t stain your clothes or leave streaks on your body. It does what it is created for and delivers a maximum tanning experience without the greasy feeling. It provides efficient tanning through the powerful combination of natural ingredients such as tea tree leaf oil, wheat sprout extract,olive fruit oil, henna extract, glycerin,sunflower oil, panthenol, and aloe vera gel. It smells good, too!

Devoted Creations WOKE UP LIKE THIS Bronzing Lotion

Devoted Creations WOKE UP LIKE THIS Bronzing Lotion will absolutely wake your skin up with a beautiful tan after going for a tanning session with your tanning equipment. Devoted Creations soothes your skin for a flawless smooth texture with its natural bronzers and DHA. it contains potent ingredients that stimulate melanin production that will keep your tan long-lasting.

Although it is intended for indoor tanning, it is also formulated with anti-aging properties that deliver tightening benefits and skin firming. The RevitaFitTM, Body FitTM and Ideal LiftTM take this job. It can also reduce wrinkles, cellulites, fine lines, and skin imperfections so you can have that sultry tan while keeping your skin young-looking!

SupreSnooki – Ultra Dark Black Bronzer By Nicole Polizzi

SupreSnooki Ultra Dark Black Bronzer is one of the favorites among the consumers and tanning enthusiasts. It is comprised of fine ingredients that work along the tanning process and help your skin achieve a fierce golden color or the deepest darkest tan for a perfect summer bod. It contains vitamins and skin conditioning extracts that will keep your skin soft and smooth with a much healthier glow.

The HyperDark Tanning technology preps the skin to absorb the tanning you need all throughout the process. Hence, unveils a deep rich golden color. Natural ingredients such as coconut and sweet almond oil work along SoftChic skin moisturizes to hydrate the skin effectively leaving it smooth, silky, and sexy!

Australian Gold Sinfully Black 15x Deep Dark Bronzing Tanning Lotion

Australian Gold Sinfully Black 15x Deep Dark Bronzing Tanning Lotion is another excellent find if staining is your concern. A gGenerous application won’t give you stains or streaks, and will not leave your hands orange or dash of color from it.

Truly, the best part is its 15x deep dark bronzing power that uses caramel, monoi de tahiti, walnut shell extract, and other bronzers. They all jive to give your skin the deepest dark color. It also contains natural moisturizers that will keep your skin smooth, soft, and naturally hydrated.

Australian Gold Hot! Tanning Lotionn]

Whether you go for indoor or outdoor tanning, Australian Gold Hot! Tanning Lotion will take your skin to the deepest dark color after tanning. While it works through the tanning process, it also acts as a moisturizer that extensively supplies your skin with the hydration it needs.

The omega oils and aloe vera merge to intensify your tan color and drive it to the darkest shade you want. Along with the Vitamins A, C, E, and F are Liposomes and Amino acids that treat your skin with healthy moisturizing.

Tanning Stuff You Can Try if You Can’t Tan

While some revel in the beauty of healthy bronze tan, some are having a difficult time achieving the tan they want. If you’re one of those who are still struggling in getting that perfect tan, here are some stuff you can try.

Beauty by Earth Dye-Free Natural Sunless Self Tanner for Bronzer and Golden Tan]

Beauty by Earth Dye-Free Natural Sunless Self Tanner is one of the best-sellers and a true favorite among the consumers and tanning enthusiasts. It is formulated with natural and organic ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Argan Oil and Green Tea, all of which work with DHA and does wonders on your skin to give it a natural tan.

Your sun-kissed tan also gets a moisturizing treatment due to the Witch Hazel ingredient. This allows your skin to unleash its incredible glow while maintaining its moisture and smooth texture. As it is comprised of organic and natural ingredients, it’ll be a great tanning lotion for sensitive skin.

Fake Bake Flawless

It is Fake Bake Flawless but it won’t reveal a fake-looking tanned skin. The natural-looking tan comes from the amazing formula of Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), DMI, and Erythulose. All these components work effectively to give your skin a long-lasting golden tan. With its reddish tone, you can achieve a flawless deep tan without the hints of orange, stains, streaks, and bad smell. So if you’re having a hard time getting that tan you want, this Fake Bake Flawless will do!

The non-sticky formula treats your skin gently without the muggy feeling. As it dries quickly, you can develop a beautiful tan in 4 to 6 hours. It goes on the skin evenly, especially if you use it with a mitt. You can just apply it to your skin and achieve that natural golden tan with a stunning glow!

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse

You can pull off a Pocahontas skin quickly from a ghostly pale Twilight skin. The St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse takes your tanning experience to a deeper and darker level. When applied, it dries within a minute and gives off a rich and radiant bronze glow. It does not streak and leave any stains, and smell bad.

It actually has a fragrant odor that you can revel in while giving yourself a bronzing boost! Whether you use it on your own or share it with your beach buddy, don’t worry. It is suitable for all skin types!

St. Tropez Applicator Mitt

For even application, the St. Tropez Applicator Mitt will provide a streak-free finish and will prevent stains on your hands. You can just glide your hand in and distribute the tanning lotion on the areas that need tanning. With its even and perfect application, you can achieve a flawless natural tan!

The Best Accessories to Use When Tanning

When you go tanning indoors, It isn’t just all about tanning lotions. There are accessories you can use to keep the tanning session safe and successful. The following accessories are the best ones you can use when you undergo tanning.

Super SunniesEvo Flex Flexible We Choose Color Tanning Goggle Eye Protection

Tanning indoors using tanning beds and tanning lamps require accessories to keep you all protected throughout the process. The Super SunniesEvo Flex Flexible We Choose Color Tanning Goggle Eye Protection is something you can try to block UVB and UVA rays efficiently while allowing clear vision. The green lenses are specifically designed to provide superior protection from high pressure, red light treatments and standard UV tanning.

Peepers Individual – Asst Color

The Peepers Eyewear is another essential accessory when you undergo tanning. Together with the perfect tanning lotion, you can fully gear yourself up and be protected against UVB and UVA rays. A lot of consumers do find it useful during their indoor tanning sessions.

Aquasentials Mesh Pouf Bath Sponge

Before you apply any tanning lotion, exfoliating is a must. Setting your skin in the best and smoothest texture stimulates the skin’s ability to absorb anything you put in it. Hence, exfoliating beforehand allows your skin to absorb the tanning lotion efficiently. This Aquasentials Mesh Pouf Bath Sponge is an exfoliator you can try. It does not go harsh on the skin while you get rid of those impurities.

Kiloline Exfoliating Loofah Pads-2 Pack

Kiloline Exfoliating Loofah Pads are another exfoliating accessories you can also use before tanning. They are made of Natural Loofah And Terry Cloth Materials, which are non-toxic and gentle to the skin. You can use the strap on the back to slip it into your hand for easy exfoliating.

Himalayan Salt Body Scrub with Lychee Essential Oil from Majestic Pure

Aside from bath sponges and loofahs, a body scrub would also be an excellent exfoliating accessory. With that in mind, the Himalayan Salt Body Scrub with Lychee Essential Oil from Majestic Pure is a 100% natural and pure exfoliating scrub that you can apply onto the skin before you put any tanning lotions. With the help of lychee fruit essential oil and sweet almond oil, it nourishes the skin, moisturizes it as it exfoliates to reveal a more radiant glow.

You can use this exfoliating scrub to eliminate skin impurities and prep your skin for tanning!

Large Beach Towel, Pool Towel, in Cabana Stripe (Variety, 4 pack, 30×60 inches)

Before and after tanning, you’ll definitely be in need of something to wrap you up. These large beach towels in Cabana Stripe are truly an essential you should take together with your tanning necessities. You can also grab it by the pool or beach after a quick dip. It is absorbent, gentle to the skin, and dries you up well.

Banana Boat Sport Performance Lip Balm SPF 50

When you equip yourself with full protection against the sun, you don’t forget the lips. Inevitably, lips dry from time to time and without proper moisture, you might end up with chapped lips. That is why this Banana Boat Sport Performance Lip Balm SPF 50 would be a great addition to your essentials. It is waterproof, too. When you go tanning, you can apply a bit of it on your lips to keep it protected and moisturized.

Pinky Petals Women’s Nipple Cover Thin Pasties, Reusable Silicone Breast Sticky, Nudetton]

Extreme exposure under the sun might sting delicate areas on your body such as your nipples. That is why an excellent protection for your nippies should be greatly considered. These Nipple Cover Thin Pasties and Reusable Silicone Breast Sticky from Pinky Petals are among the best tanning nipple covers to protect your breast and nipples from extreme temperature and harmful effects of UV rays. It is lightweight and can be reusable up to 60 times.

Conclusion

Self-tanning should never cost you an arm and a leg. Most especially, it should never cost you your health! With a lot of tanning products and procedures in the market today that feature health risks, it’s always ideal for you to be more vigilant on which tanning lotions you use. Choosing the best one is truly not a piece of cake, that is why the key is to take your time to research in order to come up with the right choice suitable for your skin.

Opt for a great natural tanning lotion that gives you that beautiful sun-kissed glow while at the same time, takes care of your skin thoroughly. To summarize the in-depth guide previously mentioned in this article piece, here’s a quick overview:

  • Know your skin type.
  • Determine the kind of tanning that you want to achieve.
  • Choose between Outdoor tanning and Indoor tanning.
  • Check the SPF level.

This comprehensive review and guideline uncover everything you need to know about tanning lotions. We have also listed a selection of the best-selling products to help you find the best tanning lotion for your skin. In addition to these best-selling indoor tanning lotions, we’ve come up with a list for the accessories you can use when tanning and other stuff you can try if you’re having a hard time getting that golden tan. Flaunt your tanned skin and enjoy the heat!

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