That golden glow from a tanning bed can be addictive, but getting it faster and keeping it longer is the real goal. Tanning accelerators, or tanning lotions as some call them, can seriously boost your tanning bed results. But with so many options out there, finding the best one for your skin and tanning goals can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry; I’ve done the research and rounded up the top 5 tanning accelerators that will help you achieve that deep, dark tan you’re after. Think of this as your cheat sheet to a perfect bronze!
Product Overview/Quick Summary:
- Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion: Best overall for dark color and skin hydration.
- Millennium Tanning New Solid Black Tanning Bed Lotion: Best for experienced tanners who want extremely dark results.
- Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion: Best for beginners and those with sensitive skin.
- Devoted Creations White 2 Black Coconut Tanning Lotion: Best for achieving a natural-looking tan with skin-nourishing ingredients.
- 棕櫚泉 Sun Products – Bronzer Indoor Tanning Lotion: Best budget-friendly option with added bronzers.
Top 5 Best Tanning Accelerator For Tanning Bed
1. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion
Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses is a popular choice for a reason. This tanning lotion not only helps you get a deep, dark tan but also leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft and hydrated, thanks to its coconut oil and cocoa butter blend. Plus, the scent is amazing – think tropical vacation.
Pros:
- ✅ Smells amazing (coconut scent)
- ✅ Contains skin-hydrating ingredients like coconut oil and cocoa butter
- ✅ Helps achieve a deep, dark tan
- ✅ Tattoo protection technology to prevent fading
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options
- ❌ Some users might find the scent too strong
- ❌ May stain light-colored clothing if not fully absorbed
Verdict: If you’re looking for a tanning lotion that delivers great color and keeps your skin moisturized, Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly good if you love a tropical fragrance.
2. Millennium Tanning New Solid Black Tanning Bed Lotion
Millennium Tanning New Solid Black is for serious tanners. This lotion is packed with dark tanning accelerators and bronzers, designed to give you an incredibly deep, dark tan in fewer sessions. It’s not for the faint of heart (or fair-skinned beginners!), but if you’re looking for intense results, this is the one.
Pros:
- ✅ Delivers extremely dark tanning results quickly
- ✅ Contains advanced tanning accelerators
- ✅ Leaves skin feeling smooth and hydrated
- ✅ Has a pleasant, subtle fragrance
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too intense for beginners or those with fair skin
- ❌ May cause streaking if not applied evenly
- ❌ Can be expensive
Verdict: This lotion is best suited for experienced tanners who want to achieve the darkest possible tan. Start with a small amount and apply carefully to avoid streaking.
3. 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’s perfect for beginners and those with sensitive skin. It contains natural oils and vitamins to nourish your skin while helping you achieve a gradual, natural-looking tan. I remember using this when I first started tanning; it’s gentle and effective.
Pros:
- ✅ Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin
- ✅ Contains natural oils and vitamins
- ✅ Helps achieve a gradual, natural-looking tan
- ✅ Affordable price point
Cons:
- ❌ Doesn’t provide as dark of a tan as some other lotions
- ❌ Scent is not as strong or appealing to some users
- ❌ May require more tanning sessions to see significant results
Verdict: If you’re new to tanning or have sensitive skin, Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator is a great place to start. It’s gentle, moisturizing, and won’t break the bank.
4. Devoted Creations White 2 Black Coconut Tanning Lotion
Devoted Creations White 2 Black Coconut is all about achieving a natural-looking tan while pampering your skin. This lotion is enriched with coconut oil and other skin-loving ingredients to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. The result is a beautiful, even tan that looks like you’ve spent a week on a tropical island.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a natural-looking tan
- ✅ Contains coconut oil and other skin-nourishing ingredients
- ✅ Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated
- ✅ Pleasant coconut scent
Cons:
- ❌ May not provide as dark of a tan as some other lotions
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey
- ❌ Some users may find the coconut scent too overpowering
Verdict: If you prioritize skin health and a natural-looking tan, Devoted Creations White 2 Black Coconut is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the fake-bake look.
5. 棕櫚泉 Sun Products – Bronzer Indoor Tanning Lotion
Looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers great results? 棕櫚泉 Sun Products – Bronzer Indoor Tanning Lotion is a solid choice. This lotion contains added bronzers to help you achieve a deeper, darker tan quickly. It’s a great value for the price and perfect for those who want to get the most bang for their buck.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Contains added bronzers for faster results
- ✅ Helps achieve a dark tan
- ✅ Readily available
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as moisturizing as some other lotions
- ❌ Scent may not be as appealing to some users
- ❌ Bronzers may cause streaking if not applied evenly
Verdict: If you’re on a budget but still want a tanning lotion that delivers a dark tan, 棕櫚泉 Sun Products – Bronzer Indoor Tanning Lotion is a great option. Just be sure to apply evenly to avoid streaking.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right tanning accelerator for a tanning bed can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what to consider:
- Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, look for lotions that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. These lotions typically contain fewer harsh chemicals and more moisturizing ingredients.
- Tanning Goals: Are you looking for a gradual tan or a deep, dark tan? If you want a gradual tan, opt for a lotion with fewer bronzers. If you want a deep, dark tan, look for lotions with added bronzers and tanning accelerators.
- Ingredients: Look for lotions that contain moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter. These ingredients will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out. Avoid lotions that contain harsh chemicals like parabens and sulfates.
- Scent: Choose a lotion with a scent that you enjoy. You’ll be smelling it for hours after your tanning session, so make sure it’s something you like.
- Price: Tanning lotions can range in price from very affordable to quite expensive. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it.
FAQs
Q: What is a tanning accelerator?
A tanning accelerator is a lotion or cream that helps to speed up the tanning process. It typically contains ingredients that stimulate melanin production, which is the pigment that gives your skin its color.
Q: How do tanning accelerators work?
Tanning accelerators work by stimulating melanin production in the skin. They often contain ingredients like L-tyrosine, copper, and other amino acids that are essential for melanin synthesis.
Q: Are tanning accelerators safe?
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 radiation. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns.
Q: Can I use a tanning accelerator outdoors?
Some tanning accelerators are designed for indoor use only, while others can be used both indoors and outdoors. Check the label to see if your tanning accelerator is suitable for outdoor use. If it is, be sure to apply sunscreen in addition to the tanning accelerator to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Q: How often should I use a tanning accelerator?
You should use a tanning accelerator every time you tan. Apply the lotion evenly to your skin before your tanning session. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the lotion to avoid staining.
Conclusion
Finding the best tanning accelerator for tanning beds really comes down to your individual skin type, tanning goals, and budget. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a gentle boost or an experienced tanner aiming for the deepest bronze possible, there’s a product on this list for you. Remember to prioritize skin health and always tan responsibly to achieve that perfect sun-kissed glow.
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