You might assume that any lotion will work in a tanning bed, but using the wrong cream can actually block the UV light from reaching your skin. Proper tanning accelerator formulas are designed to increase your microcirculation, which speeds up the pigment production process.
Picking the Best Tanning Salon Lotions requires matching the intensity of the product to your current base tan. A bit of guidance makes a significant difference in your results, so keep reading for the details on what works best.
Key Takeaways
- Select an accelerator if you are just starting out to help build your base color without heavy staining.
- Look for bronzer content if you want an immediate color boost that continues to develop for several hours after your session.
- Prioritize formulas with high silicone content if you want a smooth application that feels like silk on your skin.
- Check for tattoo protectors in the ingredient list to keep your ink from fading when exposed to UV light.
- Match the bottle size to your frequency of use because lotions with active bronzers can lose their potency over time if stored too long.
| Best Overall Bronzer |  |
Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X | Extremely dark results | Smooth silicone base | Fast absorption formula | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Outdoor Base Builder |  |
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier | No bronzer streaks | Encourages natural tanning | Lightweight lotion feel | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Heavy Duty Bronzer |  |
European Gold Dark Star 6000X | Long lasting color | Triple bronze intensity | Rich skin conditioners | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Streak Free Darkening |  |
The Sicilian 200X Black Bronzer | No orange undertones | Intense color payoff | Deeply moisturizing | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Tinted Tan Accelerator |  |
b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion | Tinted for easy application | Fast tan acceleration | Simple routine integration | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Tattoo Protecting Hydrator |  |
Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love | Protects tattoo ink | Contains coconut oil | Hydrating finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Base Accelerator |  |
European Gold Dark Star 5000X | Balanced color intensity | Good for intermediate tanners | Smooth skin feel | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Tropical Skin Quencher |  |
Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes | Includes electrolytes | Refreshing fruit extracts | Lightweight bronzer | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Classic Bronzing Staple |  |
Australian Gold Dark Accelerator | Trusted classic formula | Easy to spread | Boosts melanin production | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X
If you want deep color, this is the one to reach for. It uses a 100X bronzing formula that acts like a jump-start for your pigment production, making it a great pick for those who already have a base tan.
The silicone base helps the lotion glide onto your skin without feeling sticky. Just keep in mind that the intensity of the bronzers means you should wash your palms after applying to avoid any unwanted tinting.
- Brand:Millennium Tanning
- Tanning Type:Indoor and outdoor
- Bronzer Level:100X
- Bottle Capacity:13.5 fluid ounces
- Skin Benefits:Deep hydration
- Additional Feature:Siliconized lotion formula
- Additional Feature:Darkens skin quickly
- Additional Feature:Suitable for indoor beds
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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier
This lotion is a classic for a reason. It focuses on natural oils and vitamins to help your skin absorb sunlight, which is perfect if you spend your afternoons lounging by the pool.
Since it does not contain bronzers, it won't stain your clothes or leave streaks. It is a fantastic option for someone who prefers a slow, natural build over an immediate dark hit.
- Brand:Australian Gold
- Tanning Type:Outdoor
- Bottle Capacity:8.5 fluid ounces
- Active Ingredients:Native Australian oils
- Skin Benefits:Vitamin nourishment
- Additional Feature:Classic tropical scent
- Additional Feature:Non-greasy application
- Additional Feature:Pure intensifier formula
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European Gold Dark Star 6000X
When your tan has hit a plateau, this triple-bronze formula is designed to push you to the next level. It provides a dark, rich color that tends to stick around longer than standard accelerators.
The inclusion of skin-nourishing ingredients helps keep your complexion from feeling tight after a session. Just remember that such a high-potency bronzer requires even application to ensure you do not end up with uneven spots.
- Brand:European Gold
- Tanning Type:Indoor
- Bronzer Level:6000X
- Bottle Capacity:12 ounces
- Additional Feature:Deep color development
- Additional Feature:Skin softening ingredients
- Additional Feature:Consistent dark finish
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The Sicilian 200X Black Bronzer
This lotion is a strong candidate for those who want a deep, dark tan without the dreaded orange tint that comes with cheaper formulas. The 200X bronzing level delivers immediate results that satisfy even the most seasoned tanner.
It also doubles as a moisturizing agent, which is vital because hydrated skin holds color much better than dry, flaky skin. It is equally effective for men and women who want a polished, bronzed look.
- Brand:The Sicilian
- Tanning Type:Indoor
- Bronzer Level:200X
- Bottle Capacity:13.5 ounces
- Additional Feature:Streak-free application
- Additional Feature:Accelerator included
- Additional Feature:Gender neutral formula
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b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion
If you like to see where you have applied your lotion, the tinted formula in this bottle is a helpful guide. It helps prevent missed spots, ensuring you get an even glow across your entire body.
It is formulated specifically for UV tanning beds, meaning it works well with the bulbs to speed up your natural color development. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense choice for frequent tanners.
- Brand:b.tan
- Tanning Type:Indoor
- Bottle Capacity:13.5 fluid ounces
- Additional Feature:UV specific formula
- Additional Feature:Even color coverage
- Additional Feature:Quick absorbing lotion
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Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love
Tanning can often fade body art, but this lotion includes a tattoo protecting formula that helps keep your ink looking sharp. The inclusion of coconut oil makes it exceptionally hydrating, which is a massive bonus for your skin health.
It works well for those who want a dark glow while also pampering their skin with age-defying ingredients. The tropical scent is a nice touch if you want your tanning session to feel like a getaway.
- Brand:Tanning Paradise
- Tanning Type:Indoor
- Bottle Capacity:13.5 ounces
- Active Ingredients:Coconut oil
- Skin Benefits:Age-defying hydration
- Additional Feature:Tattoo friendly
- Additional Feature:Tropical fragrance
- Additional Feature:Ultra hydrating base
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European Gold Dark Star 5000X
This is the slightly less intense sibling to the 6000X, making it a great middle-ground option for those who are not quite ready for the highest levels of bronzer. It provides a deep, golden color that looks healthy and vibrant.
The lotion is formulated specifically for indoor tanning beds, ensuring that it works in harmony with the lamp intensity. It is an excellent choice if you want consistent results without the extreme shock of higher levels.
- Brand:European Gold
- Tanning Type:Indoor
- Bronzer Level:5000X
- Bottle Capacity:12 fluid ounces
- Additional Feature:Indoor bed optimized
- Additional Feature:Reliable darkening
- Additional Feature:Consistent performance
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Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes
This lotion feels more like a refreshing skincare treatment than a standard tanning product. With watermelon and guava extracts, it provides a burst of hydration that keeps your skin from drying out during your session.
The electrolyte-enhanced coconut water adds a layer of rejuvenation, which is perfect for maintaining the health of your skin while building a tan. It is a fantastic choice for those who want a light, fruity, and effective bronzing experience.
- Brand:Devoted Creations
- Tanning Type:Indoor and outdoor
- Bottle Capacity:8.5 ounces
- Active Ingredients:Watermelon and guava
- Skin Benefits:Electrolyte hydration
- Additional Feature:Tropical fragrance
- Additional Feature:Skin quenching formula
- Additional Feature:Versatile usage
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Australian Gold Dark Accelerator
This is a reliable favorite for anyone who wants a blend of bronzer and accelerator in one bottle. The formula is specifically designed to boost your melanin production, allowing you to get the most out of your time in the bed.
It is thin and spreads easily, which helps you cover large areas quickly. Because it offers a moderate level of bronze, it is a safe bet for those who want to build color gradually without any surprises.
- Brand:Australian Gold
- Tanning Type:Indoor
- Bottle Capacity:8 ounces
- Additional Feature:Bronzer and accelerator blend
- Additional Feature:Quick drying
- Additional Feature:Consistent results