How to Choose the Right Tanning Lotion

Wondering how to choose the right tanning lotion? Start with your skin type and your tanning goal. Then match the formula to your routine. The right lotion helps you tan faster, deepen color, and keep skin hydrated—indoors and outdoors.

Begin with Your Skin Type

Your skin type guides your choice. Fair or sensitive skin often benefits from gentle tanning accelerators and slow, steady sessions. Medium or olive skin can handle richer bronzers for deeper color. Dark skin tones may prefer intensifiers for maximum depth. Always patch-test if you have sensitive skin.

Match the Formula to Your Goal

• Accelerators: Support melanin production for a quicker, more even base tan (great for beginners).
• Bronzing Lotions: Add instant or gradual color; ideal when you want deeper tone fast.
• Tingle Lotions: Heat-activated, designed for experienced tanners seeking intense results.
• Self-Tanners: Sunless options that deliver a natural glow without UV exposure.
• After-Tan Care: Moisturizers that lock in hydration and help extend color.

Indoor vs. Outdoor: Small Tweaks Matter

For indoor sessions, choose lotions made for tanning beds and follow salon timing. For outdoor tanning, always pair your lotion with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF) to protect skin from UV damage. Reapply sunscreen as directed. Sun safety supports better-looking color in the long run.

Simple Steps for Better, Longer-Lasting Color

1. Prep: Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning to remove dead skin and prevent streaks.
2. Apply: Use enough product for even coverage; focus on drier areas last.
3. Hydrate: Moisturize daily to keep skin soft and help color last longer.
4. Balance: Space sessions and avoid burning; slow, steady progress looks best.
5. Refresh: Use after-tan extenders to maintain tone between sessions.

Helpful Resources & Next Steps

For UV safety guidance, review the FDA tanning resource. Ready to explore formulas? Browse our Bronzers, Accelerators, and Self-Tanners. If you need help, visit our Contact page or see our Privacy Policy for data practices.

Choosing the right lotion is simple: know your skin, set a clear goal, and pick a formula that supports safe, consistent tanning. With the proper routine, you can build deeper color and keep your glow longer.

How to Get a Dark Tan

Wondering how to get a dark tan? You’re not alone — many people want a smooth, sun-kissed glow that lasts. With the right combination of products and habits, you can tan faster, get a deeper color, and maintain it longer while still keeping your skin healthy and hydrated.

Start with Safe Tanning Practices

Always follow safe tanning rules to protect your skin. Begin with short sessions and gradually build up exposure to avoid burning. Your natural skin tone plays a big role in how dark you can get, so be patient and give your skin time to adapt. Spray tanning is also an option for instant results without UV exposure, and it can be combined with regular tanning for an even, all-over color.

Use the Right Tanning Products

• Tanning Accelerators: Boost melanin production, helping you tan faster and see visible results sooner.
• Bronzers: Provide instant or gradual color by reacting with amino acids in your skin for a “second layer” of golden tone.
• Combination Lotions: Deliver the best of both worlds — speed from accelerators and rich color from bronzers.

Pro Tips for a Darker, Longer-Lasting Tan

• Exfoliate your skin 24 hours before your first session to remove dead cells and get even coverage.
• Moisturize daily after tanning to extend your color and keep skin smooth.
• Schedule 1–2 tanning sessions per week to build and maintain your glow.
• Stay hydrated and eat antioxidant-rich foods to help your skin stay healthy.
• Rotate your position during sessions to ensure an even tan.

For detailed guidance on tanning safety, visit the FDA Indoor Tanning Resource. For more product details, check out our Bronzers and Accelerators collections.

🌞 With the right routine and products, your dream tan is closer than you think. Start with the best tanning lotions, follow these tips, and enjoy a smooth, even, long-lasting glow.

Why You Should Use Tanning Lotion

Wondering why you should use tanning lotion? The answer is simple: the right lotion helps you tan faster, get deeper color, and keep your glow longer. It also supports smooth, even results by hydrating the skin before, during, and after each tanning session.

What Tanning Lotion Does

Tanning lotions prep the skin, boost melanin activity, and improve color development. They add moisture so the tan looks even, not patchy. As a result, your color builds faster and fades more slowly. Use them for both indoor tanning beds and outdoor sunbathing.

Key Benefits at a Glance

• Speed: Helps skin respond to UV exposure more efficiently.
• Depth: Supports a richer, darker tone with fewer streaks.
• Hydration: Locks in moisture to prevent dryness and flaking.
• Longevity: Slows fade so your tan lasts longer.
• Smooth Finish: Promotes even application and consistent results.

Choose the Right Formula

• Accelerators: Great for beginners or fair skin building a base.
• Bronzing Lotions: Add instant or gradual color for a deeper look.
• Tingle Lotions: For experienced users who want intense results.
• Self-Tanners: Sunless options for a golden glow without UV.
• After-Tan Care: Moisturizers and extenders that help maintain color.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Tips

For indoor sessions, follow salon timing and apply lotion before each visit. For outdoor tanning, apply your tanning lotion and also use a separate, broad-spectrum sunscreen as directed to help protect skin from UV damage. Reapply sunscreen as needed.

How to Use Tanning Lotion (Simple Steps)

1. Prep: Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning for an even surface.
2. Apply: Use enough product for full coverage; blend on elbows, knees, and ankles.
3. Hydrate: Moisturize daily to keep skin soft and slow fading.
4. Maintain: Plan steady sessions; avoid burning for the best long-term color.
5. Extend: Use after-tan extenders between sessions.

Learn More & Next Steps

For UV safety guidance, see the FDA indoor tanning resource. Want help choosing a formula? Explore our Bronzers, Accelerators, and Self-Tanners, or reach us via the Contact page. For information on how we handle data, read our Privacy Policy.

Now you know why you should use tanning lotion: it supports faster results, deeper color, and a longer-lasting glow—while keeping your skin smooth and comfortable.

Can I Use a Tanning Bed?

Many people ask: can I use a tanning bed? The answer depends on your health, skin type, and tanning goals. Tanning beds can help you build a controlled, even tan indoors, but it is important to use them safely and responsibly. The right approach, paired with proper products, ensures you get beautiful results while caring for your skin.

Check If Tanning Beds Are Right for You

Before using a tanning bed, consider your skin type and any medical conditions. Very fair skin or a history of skin conditions may require shorter sessions or avoiding tanning salons altogether. Talk with a healthcare professional if you are unsure. For general UV safety guidelines, visit the FDA’s tanning safety page.

How to Prepare for Indoor Tanning

• Exfoliate your skin 24 hours before tanning for even coverage.
• Apply a tanning accelerator or bronzing lotion to boost color development.
• Wear protective eyewear provided by the salon.
• Follow recommended session times to avoid overexposure.

Benefits of Using a Tanning Bed

Indoor tanning allows you to control the intensity and duration of UV exposure, reducing the risk of burns compared to unplanned sun exposure. It’s a convenient option when outdoor tanning is not possible, and it can be combined with self-tanning products for a more natural, customized look.

Aftercare Matters

• Moisturize your skin immediately after tanning to lock in hydration.
• Use after-tan extenders to maintain color and keep skin smooth.
• Space sessions several days apart for the healthiest, longest-lasting tan.

So, can you use a tanning bed? Yes — if done safely and paired with the right products that will maximize your session's effects. With proper preparation, lotion, and care, tanning salons can be a helpful way to build a consistent glow year-round. Check out our full tanning lotion collection to find the best option for yourself!