Tanning lotion for tanning beds is an absolute must-have if you want the best results from your sessions. But with so many indoor tanning lotions available online and in tanning salons, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Bronzer, accelerator, tingler, intensifier. The options seem endless. In reality, it is actually pretty simple. It all comes down to two things, your skin type and your tanning routine. Once you understand those, picking the right one becomes much easier.
Key Takeaways
- Indoor tanning lotion helps keep the skin hydrated, which allows UV light to be absorbed more evenly and helps your tan develop smoother and deeper.
- Skipping lotion often leads to dry skin and weaker results, even if you spend the same amount of time in the tanning bed.
- Only use lotions that are specifically designed for tanning. Regular body lotions and oils may damage the acrylic surface and can lead to worse results.
- The best tanning lotion depends on your skin type, tanning experience, and goals.
What Is Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds?
Tanning lotions are specially formulated to help you achieve a deeper and more even tan. They work by hydrating and conditioning the skin with ingredients that support the tanning process.
Well-hydrated skin tans more evenly and holds color longer. Many lotions also include ingredients that can help accelerate tanning or enhance the final shade. For example:
- Aloe vera
- Shea butter
- Caffeine
- Vitamins and minerals
- Antioxidants
- Avocado extract
- Tamanu oil
- Walnut oil
When choosing a lotion, it is important to make sure it matches your tanning method. Most products fall into one of these categories:
- Indoor tanning lotions: Designed specifically for tanning beds
- Outdoor tanning lotions: Made for sun exposure outdoors
- Hybrid lotions: Suitable for both tanning beds and outdoor use
Keep in mind that tanning lotion is not the same as sunscreen. If you plan to spend extended time in the sun, always apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for proper protection.
Indoor Tanning Lotion vs Regular Body Lotion
If you already have a regular body lotion at home, you might wonder if you can just use that. No, body lotion can’t be substituted for tanning lotions.
Regular body lotions often contain oils or ingredients that are not acrylic-safe and can damage tanning beds. Even if the ingredient list looks harmless, standard lotions are not optimized for UV exposure or for supporting the tanning process.
Indoor Tanning Lotion vs Self-Tanner
Both indoor tanning and self-tanners can give you a darker look, but they work in completely different ways.
- Indoor tanning lotions support the tanning process inside a tanning bed. They hydrate the skin and may include ingredients that help stimulate melanin, which allows your skin to develop a deeper natural tan.
- Self-tanners, on the other hand, create color without any UV exposure. They use an ingredient called DHA that reacts with the outer layer of your skin to produce a temporary tan. This color usually lasts around 4 to 7 days.
How Tanning Lotion Works in a Tanning Bed
The primary role of tanning lotion is to keep the skin hydrated, but these specially formulated products also support several other parts of the tanning process. Here is a quick breakdown of how they work.
- Hydration: Well-hydrated skin is the ideal canvas for tanning. When your skin has the moisture it needs, it absorbs UV rays more evenly, which helps prevent patchy spots and uneven color.
- Support for tanning: Many tanning lotions include ingredients such as humectants, vitamins, and antioxidants that help prepare the skin for UV exposure. These ingredients can support melanin production and help you achieve a glow faster.
- Comfort and scent: Indoor tanning lotions are often designed to reduce after-tan odor. They also leave a light and pleasant fragrance so your skin smells fresh after your session.
Types of Tanning Lotions for Tanning Beds (And Who They’re For)
When choosing a tanning lotion, things like scent, bottle size, or texture may seem important. And yes, picking a lotion that smells good definitely helps. But the real factors that matter are your skin type, tanning experience, and the results you want to achieve.
Intensifiers / Accelerators
These are the most common tanning lotions you will find. Their main purpose is to hydrate the skin so it can absorb UV rays more efficiently and develop a more even tan.
Most intensifiers and accelerators also include ingredients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to nourish the skin. However, they do not contain cosmetic color or bronzing ingredients.
That means they support the tanning process naturally without instantly darkening your skin tone.
Tanning Accelerator vs Intensifier
Intensifiers are great for:
- New tanners
- People with fair or sensitive skin
- Anyone who prefers a slow and gradual tanning process
Accelerators are great for:
- People who tan regularly
- Anyone who wants to develop a tan faster without artificial color
Bronzers
Bronzers are tanning lotions designed to create a more noticeable darkness in your tan. There are two main types, but only one is actually intended for tanning use.
- Delayed bronzers: These lotions contain DHA (Dihydroxyacetone), which gradually deepens the color of your tan for about four to seven days. They are specifically formulated for tanning and usually include ingredients like aloe, vitamins, minerals, and shea butter to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
- Instant bronzers: These products work more like cosmetic makeup. They temporarily darken the skin tone but do not contribute to the actual tanning process.
Tan Intensifier vs Bronzer
Tan intensifiers are ideal for people who are just starting out or prefer a simple approach to tanning.
Bronzers are better for those who:
- Want to see an immediate difference in their tan
- Have an event coming up and want a noticeable glow
- Already have experience with indoor tanning
Tingle Tanning Lotion
Tingle lotions are usually recommended only for very experienced tanners. These products create a warm, prickly sensation on the skin. The idea behind this formula is to increase circulation in the skin. Improved circulation may deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the area, which could help stimulate melanin production.
They are great for:
- Experienced tanners
- People comfortable with a noticeable tingling sensation
Specialty Lotions
Specialty tanning lotions are designed for specific skin needs or preferences. These formulas focus on targeted care rather than general tanning support. For example:
- Fair or sensitive skin
- Extra tattoo protection
- Indoor and outdoor tanning compatibility
Most brands clearly highlight these features on the label. So you should be able to easily find the one that offers the extra care that you are looking for.
Hybrid Lotions
Hybrid tanning lotions are designed for multi-purpose use, which makes them a convenient option if you follow a broader wellness routine. Some hybrid lotions can be used for:
- Indoor tanning
- Spray tanning
- Red light therapy
This type of lotion works well if you want one product that supports several treatments. A good example is TriLuxe Lotion by REDLIGHT+, which is designed to complement multiple wellness and tanning sessions.
How to Choose the Right Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (A Practical Guide)
Now that you understand the different types of tanning lotions, the next step is choosing the one that works best for you.
Skin Type
Your skin type should always be the starting point when choosing a tanning lotion.
- Dry skin: Look for lotions with deeply hydrating and soothing ingredients that help restore moisture. When your skin is properly hydrated, it develops a more even color during tanning.
- Oily skin: Choose lotions with a lighter texture and a non-greasy formula. These tend to feel more comfortable on the skin while still providing the hydration needed for tanning.
- Sensitive skin: Stick with simple formulas that contain basic ingredients. It is best to avoid heavy fragrances and definitely stay away from tingle lotions.
Tanning History
Your tanning experience also plays a big role in choosing the right lotion.
- New to tanning: Start with intensifiers. These provide hydration and support melanin production without adding artificial color.
- Experienced tanners: Intensifiers and accelerators are still excellent options. If you want a deeper color, you can also start experimenting with bronzers.
- Expert tanners: At this level, you can use any of the options above and may also try tingle lotions for more advanced tanning routines.
Goals
You should also consider how you want your tan to look.
- Soft and natural glow: Intensifiers and accelerators are great choices if you want a gradual and natural-looking tan.
- Noticeably darker color: Bronzers can help you achieve a deeper shade and enhance your tan for up to seven days.
- Maintenance tanning: If you already have a base tan and want to maintain it, intensifiers or hybrid lotions like TriLuxe Lotion by REDLIGHT+ are great options.
Tanning Method
Many experienced tanners combine multiple treatments to get a richer tan and shorten the time spent under UV exposure
- Tanning bed + spray tan: You can develop a base tan in the tanning bed and then enhance the color with spray tanning. This combination often produces a richer and darker finish.
- Tanning bed + red light therapy: Red light therapy can be used either before or after a tanning session. To see what the difference is, check out this article.
Because of routines like these, hybrid lotions are becoming more popular. Products like TriLuxe Lotion by REDLIGHT+ work well across multiple treatments, so you don’t need separate lotions for every session.
How to Use Tanning Lotion Before and After a Bed Session
Many people use tanning lotions the wrong way or mix up the steps. If you are new to tanning or not sure if you are doing it correctly, here is the correct way.
Before the Session
Before applying tanning lotion, make sure that your skin is:
- Exfoliated and shaved/waxed skin
- Completely free from any perfumes, oils, and any other lotions
When to apply tanning lotion?
Apply a tanning lotion just before stepping into the tanning bed.
How to apply tanning lotion?
- Use enough lotion to cover your body in a thin, even layer
- Pay extra attention to areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and feet, since these spots can dry out faster
- If you are using a bronzer, lightly wipe your palms after application to prevent staining
After the Session
Taking care of your tan is simple. You just need to pay attention to a few things.
- Wait before showering if using bronzers: If your lotion contains DHA or delayed bronzers, wait the recommended time before showering. This allows the color to fully develop and prevents washing away the bronzing ingredients too early.
- Moisturize daily: A gentle moisturizer or tan-extending lotion can help maintain your glow and prevent dryness.
If you are unsure where to start, the team at SunsUp Tan & Wellness Spa can help guide you. Staff members can recommend an exfoliation schedule, suggest the right lotion amount for your sessions, and show you how to combine tanning lotion with treatments like spray tanning or red light therapy.
Important to Notice
Tanning relies on UV rays to stimulate melanin production. Like any UV exposure, it comes with certain risks. Tanning lotion can improve skin hydration and help you achieve better results, but it does not eliminate those risks.
Here are a few basic guidelines you should always follow:
- Follow the timing and recommendations provided by the salon staff
- Never tan again if your skin is burned or irritated
- Always wear proper eye protection during every session
FAQ
Do you really need tanning lotion for tanning beds?
You technically do not need tanning lotion to use a tanning bed, but it makes a noticeable difference. Indoor tanning lotions hydrate the skin and help it respond better to UV exposure, which usually leads to a smoother and more even tan.
Can you tan in a bed without lotion?
Yes, you can still develop a tan without lotion. However, skin that isn’t properly hydrated may tan unevenly and dry out faster, which can affect the overall look of your results.
Can you use regular body lotion or oils instead of indoor tanning lotion?
Regular body lotions and oils are not recommended for tanning beds. They are not designed for UV exposure, and some ingredients may damage the acrylic surface of the bed.
Can tanning lotion make you itchy or irritate skin?
Yes, it can happen if your skin is sensitive to certain ingredients or fragrances used in the formula. If you have sensitive skin, it is a good idea to do a small patch test first or ask salon staff to recommend a gentler lotion.
Does tanning lotion go bad or get ruined if it freezes or overheats?
Yes, extreme temperatures can affect the formula. If the lotion separates, smells unusual, or has a strange texture, it is better to replace it rather than continue using it.
What’s the difference between tanning lotion and self-tanner?
Indoor tanning lotion supports the natural tanning process by hydrating the skin and helping it respond to UV rays. Self-tanners use DHA to temporarily color the skin without any UV exposure.
Do tan accelerators work?
Yes, tan accelerators can help support the tanning process. Their main role is to hydrate the skin and include ingredients that help prepare it for UV exposure, which may help your skin develop a deeper tan over time.
Do tan accelerators work in sunbeds?
Yes, they work in sunbeds as long as the accelerator is specifically made for indoor tanning. These lotions are designed to perform properly under tanning bed UV lamps.
What does an intensifier do for tanning?
An intensifier helps the skin develop a deeper natural tan by improving hydration and supporting melanin production. Unlike bronzers, intensifiers do not add artificial color.
Does tingle lotion make you darker?
Tingle lotions increase blood circulation, which brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin during tanning. Some experienced tanners use them to potentially boost melanin production, but they are not recommended for beginners.
What does bronzer tanning lotion do?
Bronzer tanning lotions improve the appearance of your tan by adding color to the skin. Some formulas provide instant cosmetic color, while others contain DHA that gradually darkens the skin for several days.
Can you use bronzer tanning lotion outside?
You can only use bronzer tanning lotion outside if the bottle clearly says it is suitable for outdoor use or for both indoor and outdoor tanning.
When Sunless Options Are a Better
Tanning beds are not always the right choice for everyone. In some situations, sunless tanning options can be a more practical and predictable way to achieve the color you want.
People with very fair or sensitive skin that burns easily may find sunless options easier to manage. Instead of dealing with repeated UV exposure, a spray tan or sunless product can provide color without stressing the skin.
Sunless tanning is also a good option for anyone who prefers to avoid UV exposure for medical or personal reasons. After all, DHA-based products can create a natural-looking tan without relying on UV light.
Need Assistance?
If you are unsure which tanning lotion is right for you, the team at SunsUp Tan & Wellness Spa is always happy to help. You can bring questions about your skin type, the products you are currently using, and the results you want to achieve.
The staff can recommend one or two lotions that fit your routine and help you build a simple approach to tanning.
They can also make sure the products you are using are bed-safe and appropriate for your tanning method. Sometimes a small adjustment in your routine can make a noticeable difference in how your tan looks and how long it lasts.
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