Sunbathing can be harmful to bare, unprotected skin so a quality tanning lotion is essential to have. When paired with a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen, tanning lotion allows you to experience the bronzed glow achieved by lying out in the sun for hours. There are many different types of tanning lotions with some designed for just indoor use in tanning beds, while others are formulated for tanning outdoors. There are also tanning accelerators and tingle lotions allowing for faster tanning, while after-tan lotions help simultaneously preserve your tan and restore skin.
A tanning lotions effectiveness is a primary factor to consider before choosing a specific product. The darkening quality and amount of time required to achieve that level of skin bronzing is key. Quality tanning lotions allow you to become more bronzed in less time while keeping skin healthy moisturized. They also provide lasting glows to prevent the need for constant application.
Keep in mind you should never substitute a tanning lotion for a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Tanning lotions are only designed to intensify the effects of ultraviolet rays, not protect against them. Using a high-numbered, broad spectrum sunscreen along with a tanning lotion significantly prevents the risk of developing skin cancers.
Tanning Lotion Buyer's Guide
Natural-Looking Appearance
The whole point of tanning is for a healthy glow and enhance your overall appearance. The best tanning lotions deliver an even, bronzed glow that’s never mistaken for a “fake” tan. Conversely, using a low-quality tanning lotion can result in ugly orange streaks or an unnatural-looking tan.
Skin Nourishment
Quality tanning lotions go beyond simply bronzing by moisturizing and conditioning skin with nourishing ingredients such as green tea, aloe vera, and hemp seed. Some tanning lotions also provide age-defying benefits such as skin firming and wrinkle prevention use antioxidants and amino acids.
Tanning Lotion Types
Outdoor Tanning Lotion
Outdoor tanning lotions typically contain natural oils and bronzers that when exposed to the sun, help darken skin pigments. Some outdoor tanning lotions may also contain low levels of broad spectrum SPF sunscreen, but typically not enough to protect skin against sun-related skin damage.
Indoor Tanning Lotion
Indoor tanning lotions allow you to develop your tan without the need for natural sunlight exposure. These tanning lotions typically work more quickly than outdoor tanning lotions and are known to help extend the lifespan of your tan.
Bronzing Tanning Lotion
Similar to indoor tanning lotions, bronzing tanning lotions help you achieve deeper skin color in less time. They usually contain natural bronzers along with vitamins, minerals, and oils to provide rich, long-lasting color. Many bronzing tanning lotions also moisturize skin and help improve its radiance.
Tanning Accelerator
Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, tanning accelerators rapidly darken skin by activating the melanin production in pigment cells. Tanning accelerators may also contain nourishing ingredients such as vitamins and hydrating oils to help protect and rejuvenate skin Certain accelerators contain bronzers, as well.
Tingle Lotion
Tingle lotions quickly deepen your skin tone by drawing more blood to your skin’s surface. When the melanin in your skin is exposed to more oxygen, the effects of ultraviolet rays are intensified. Tingle lotions are meant for use experienced tanners and not suitable for use by individuals with sensitive skin.
After Tan Lotion
After tan lotions help replenish moisture and nutrients lost during tanning. They may contain nourishing ingredients such as antioxidants, hemp seed extract, or amino acids to condition your skin and improve its texture, tone, and overall appearance. After tan lotions can also help extend the longevity of your tan.
Tanning Oil
Tanning oil is like lotion (meant to get you tan) and typically contain a low SPF. People who use tanning oils usually are trying to obtain a deep, dark tan at a faster rate than a tanning lotion might provide.