Chasing that perfect sun-kissed glow can feel like a full-time job, especially when you’re relying on sunbeds. I remember the days of uneven tans and dry skin – not a good look. That’s where tanning accelerators come in, promising to boost your tanning potential and keep your skin healthy. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? I’ve done the research and rounded up the top 5 sunbed tanning accelerators that actually deliver results.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Fiesta Sun Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion: Best overall for deep, dark color and moisturizing benefits.
- Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Black Bronzer: Ideal for experienced tanners looking for immediate, dark results.
- Millennium Tanning Solid Black Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion: Powerful bronzer for advanced tanners seeking maximum darkness.
- Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion: Great for beginners, providing a natural-looking tan and excellent hydration.
- Devoted Creations INKED! Tattoo Enhancing Tanning Lotion: Specifically formulated to protect and enhance tattoos while tanning.
Top 5 Best Sunbed Tanning Accelerators
1. Fiesta Sun Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion
The Fiesta Sun Coconut Kisses is a popular choice for a reason. It’s designed to give you a deep, dark tan while keeping your skin incredibly moisturized. The coconut scent is a definite bonus, making your tanning session feel like a mini-vacation.
Pros:
- ✅ Smells amazing (coconut bliss!)
- ✅ Deeply moisturizing, prevents dry skin
- ✅ Helps achieve a rich, golden tan
Cons:
- ❌ May be too dark for very fair skin
- ❌ The scent might be overpowering for some
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options
Verdict: If you want a deeply moisturizing lotion that gives you a gorgeous, dark tan and smells incredible, Fiesta Sun Coconut Kisses is a great pick. It’s especially good if you struggle with dry skin after tanning.
2. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Black Bronzer
Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Black Bronzer is for those who want serious color, fast. This lotion contains a high level of bronzers that deliver an immediate, dark tan. It’s best suited for experienced tanners who are already comfortable with using bronzing lotions.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides extremely dark, fast results
- ✅ Contains skin-nourishing ingredients
- ✅ Has a pleasant coconut scent
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for beginners due to the high bronzer content
- ❌ Can streak if not applied evenly
- ❌ May stain clothing if not fully absorbed
Verdict: If you’re an experienced tanner looking for the darkest possible tan, Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Black Bronzer is worth a try. Just be sure to apply it carefully and evenly to avoid streaks.
3. Millennium Tanning Solid Black Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion
Millennium Tanning Solid Black Bronzer is another powerful option for advanced tanners. This lotion is packed with bronzers and tanning enhancers designed to deliver maximum darkness. It also contains moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin hydrated.
Pros:
- ✅ Delivers very dark, long-lasting color
- ✅ Contains anti-aging ingredients
- ✅ Leaves skin feeling soft and smooth
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too intense for fair skin tones
- ❌ Strong fragrance that may not appeal to everyone
- ❌ Higher price point
Verdict: Solid Black is a great choice if you’re an experienced tanner and are serious about getting a super dark tan. But be careful and make sure you know how your skin reacts to strong bronzers.
4. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator is a classic for a reason. It’s a great all-around lotion that provides a natural-looking tan and excellent hydration. It’s also a good choice for beginners who are just starting to use tanning accelerators.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a natural-looking tan
- ✅ Very moisturizing and hydrating
- ✅ Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t provide as dark of a tan as some other lotions
- ❌ Scent can be a bit generic
- ❌ Might not be potent enough for experienced tanners
Verdict: If you’re new to tanning accelerators or prefer a more natural-looking tan, Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator is a solid choice. It’s also a great option if you have sensitive skin.
5. Devoted Creations INKED! Tattoo Enhancing Tanning Lotion
If you have tattoos, you know how important it is to protect them from fading. Devoted Creations INKED! is specifically formulated to enhance and protect your tattoos while you tan. It also helps to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Pros:
- ✅ Protects and enhances tattoos
- ✅ Moisturizes and hydrates skin
- ✅ Helps prevent tattoo fading
Cons:
- ❌ May not provide as dark of a tan as other lotions
- ❌ Scent can be a bit strong
- ❌ Primarily focused on tattoo protection, not maximum tanning
Verdict: If you have tattoos and want to keep them looking vibrant while you tan, Devoted Creations INKED! is an excellent choice. It’s a worthwhile investment to protect your ink.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right sunbed tanning accelerator can feel overwhelming, but here’s what to consider:
- Skin Type: Fair skin needs a milder lotion with less bronzer. Darker skin can handle more intense formulas.
- Tanning Experience: Beginners should start with gradual tanning lotions. Experienced tanners can go for darker bronzers.
- Ingredients: Look for moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and coconut oil. Avoid lotions with harsh chemicals.
- Bronzers: DHA bronzers provide a delayed tan that develops over time. Natural bronzers offer immediate color.
- Tattoo Protection: If you have tattoos, choose a lotion specifically designed to protect them from fading.
- Scent: Pick a scent you enjoy, as you’ll be smelling it during and after your tanning session.
- Reviews: Read online reviews to see what other users are saying about a particular lotion.
I always recommend doing a patch test before applying any new tanning lotion to your entire body. This will help you see how your skin reacts to the product and prevent any unwanted surprises.
FAQs
Q: What is a tanning accelerator?
A: A tanning accelerator is a lotion that helps to speed up the tanning process by stimulating melanin production in the skin.
Q: Are tanning accelerators safe to use?
A: When used as directed, tanning accelerators are generally safe. However, it’s important to choose a lotion that is appropriate for your skin type and to avoid overexposure to UV light.
Q: Can I use a tanning accelerator outdoors?
A: Some tanning accelerators are designed for outdoor use, while others are specifically formulated for sunbeds. Be sure to check the product label before using it outdoors, and always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn.
Q: How often should I use a tanning accelerator?
A: Follow the instructions on the product label. Generally, you should apply the lotion before each tanning session.
Q: Will a tanning accelerator protect my skin from sunburn?
A: No, tanning accelerators do not provide sun protection. You still need to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Conclusion
Finding the best sunbed tanning accelerator is all about understanding your skin type, tanning goals, and personal preferences. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a natural-looking tan or an experienced tanner chasing the darkest bronze possible, there’s a lotion out there for you. Remember to prioritize hydration and protect your skin from overexposure to UV light. Happy tanning!
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