13 Best Indoor Tanning Lotions to Get That Sunkissed Glow

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 21, 2024
Best Indoor Tanning Lotion
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Hey, beauties! From our experience, we can claim if there’s one thing that can give you an exotic tanning look and a healthy extraverted vibe, the answer is the best indoor tanning lotions. These lotions are formulated with effective ingredients that beautifully give you the appearance of a hot lifeguard in Baywatch. Each product has its own magic and is ready to give you a sun-kissed and natural-looking tan that's unparalleled, whether you're rocking the beach or just soaking up the sun's glow. So, get ready to dive into a world of fabulous tanning and bring out your inner bronzed goddess.

As per our expertise, we can say that a healthy tan doesn't only just make you look good; but it also exudes a sexy aura that's hard to resist. But if you are thinking of relying on the ‘natural method’ aka sun exposure, let us tell you that it is the worst thing you can do to your skin as time and again research shows that sun exposure has caused premature aging and other kinds of skin damage. And that's why tanning lotions come in handy! But, there's one thing you should never overlook — choosing the right indoor tanning lotion or oil. It's the key to achieving that sun-kissed glow that turns heads wherever you go. More than just getting a deeper complexion, self-tanning is about enhancing the appearance of our body features, and highlighting its natural contours to look and feel special! Hence, we've put together our tried and tested top picks for indoor self-tanning products below to help you glow up.

13 Best Indoor Tanning Lotions

Achieve the perfect tan effortlessly whether you’re soaking up in the tanning bed with this remarkable tanning oil. It not only gives you a long-lasting and deep tan but also keeps your skin hydrated, moisturized, and radiant. Use it daily year-round for skin that’s strong, shimmering, and more elastic to tackle those stubborn fine lines as well. For optimal results, rock it immediately after the shower. Why? Because that way, your skin will be able to absorb all the goodness of this product.

Pros
  • Quick to use
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Rejuvenating
  • Nourishing
  • Luxurious aroma
  • Spa-like experience
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Best Streak-free Product

    Somewhere on a Beach Indoor/Outdoor Instant Dark Tanning Lotion

    Somewhere on a Beach Indoor/Outdoor Instant Dark Tanning Lotion
  • Get the perfect streak-free tan with the DHA-free bronzers for absolutely flawless results. Trust us when we say that you would love to unleash the magic of Advanced Matrixyl Synthe 6, a powerful anti-aging peptide that works wonders in reducing wrinkles and fine lines by boosting collagen production. This product is enriched with the goodness of walnut and coconut oils, leaving your skin soft and perfectly hydrated. For that gorgeous, age-defying glow this adaptable solution has you covered whether you’re tanning indoors or on your patio!

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Streak-free
    • Anti-aging
    • Affordable
    • Smoothens the skin texture
    • Super-nourishing
    Cons
    • Not for instant and prompt results
  • Best Dermatologically-tested Tanner

    That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator

    That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator
  • Unlock your deepest tan potential with this indoor tanning lotion, meticulously designed for a luxuriously dark glow that everyone desires. This cutting-edge formula, suitable for indoor and outdoor use, boasts a unique tyrosine blend to rev up melanin production, guaranteeing you a radiant bronze glow faster than ever. Rest easy with this premium product — it’s been rigorously tested and crafted alongside top dermatological experts. Bid farewell to tattoo fade worries with this revolutionary lotion. This formula is enriched with botanical extract, leaving your skin irresistibly supple, smooth, and glowing with a gentle care of coconut essentials.

    Pros
    • Leaves no stains
    • Provides tattoo protection
    • Dermatologically-tested
    • Safe to use
    • Gives an unparalleled glow
    • Supple and healthy skin
    Cons
    • Heavy aroma
  • Best Alcohol-free Formula

    Australian Gold CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers

    Australian Gold CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers
  • Packed with native Australian oils and the goodness of vitamins A and E, this product by Australian Gold is your ticket to a supremely hydrating tanning adventure. And you would be delighted to know that this product is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s the ultimate indoor dark tanning lotion for your sweet and sensitive skin. Get ready to unplug yourself in the exclusive galaxy of Cocoadreams fragrance. Available in a generous 8.5oz bottle, it’s time to experience the ultimate tanning bliss.

    Pros
    • Pleasant fragrance
    • Fights free radicals
    • Handy bottle
    • Alcohol-free
    • Nourishes the skin
    • Replenishes the moisture barrier
    Cons
    • Strong smell
  • Best Vegan-friendly Product

    Dolce Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion

    Dolce Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion
  • Introducing the heavenly lotion, your pass to a long-lasting, natural tan that also has extra skin care advantages. When you combine the dark DHA and natural bronzers in a soft silicone formula, you get this unwavering plus unmatched glow that lasts for days. With its quick drying and instant bronze effect, getting the Greek goddess vibe cannot be easier than this. Moreover, the product is vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, all-natural, and loaded with color-fading and tattoo protection. With Dolce Black, bid orange tones goodbye and welcome to a gorgeous, glowing tan!

    Pros
    • Nourishing ingredients
    • Exotic skin-glow
    • Great for mature skin
    • No more sticky orange tones
    • Soft silicone formula
    • Instant payoff
    Cons
    • Lasts only 24 hours
  • Best for Sun-kissed Luminosity

    European Gold Flash Black 2000X Time Release Bronzers

    European Gold Flash Black 2000X Time Release Bronzers
  • Indoor tanning's best friend is this tailor-made alcohol-free formula to enrich your skin with a radiant golden-bronze glow. With time-release DHA bronzers and the ultra-dark Glow Matrix, your color deepens gradually in a desired way, that you ever wished for. Please note that it doesn't contain SPF and won't protect against sunburn — so remember to play it safe in the sun (and put on some sunscreen)! Now, take the precautionary measures and get ready to glow and keep that stunning tan all year round.

    Pros
    • Conditioning the skin
    • Smells really good
    • Ultra dark glow matrix
    • Deepens color over time
    • Unmatched radiance
    Cons
    • Calls for sunscreen application
    • Not ideal for sensitive skin
  • Best Natural Formula

    Just Nutritive Tanning Indoor Lotion

    Just Nutritive Tanning Indoor Lotion
  • Supercharge your tanning journey with this skin-loving natural tanning indoor lotion! This isn't your run-of-the-mill bronzer, it's a game-changer for kickstarting, extending, and preserving your tan. Whether you're bronzing indoors or out, it's a tanning bed safe and a daily moisturizer for that enduring, radiant glow. With this product, your skin can experience an exclusive blend of natural ingredients like coffee, aloe vera, noni, papaya, and guava extracts, infused with antioxidant-rich goodies like pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E that not only gently exfoliate the skin but also moisturize at the same time. This nourishing blend deeply hydrates your skin, banishing dryness and revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion.

    Pros
    • Goodness of fruits
    • Super-nourishing
    • Energizes the skin
    • Gives a sun-kissed complexion
    • Loaded with vitamins
    • Preserves the tan for a long time
    Cons
    • Takes time to absorb properly
  • Best Paraben-free Formula

    BEACHES and CREME Tanning Lotion

    BEACHES and CREME Tanning Lotion
  • We love how the low-key formula of this tanning lotion is suitable for all skin types! Its paraben-free and antioxidant-rich formula indulgently softens, conditions, and nourishes the skin! This cream features a dark intensifying blend with Tyrosine agents, working its magic to promote healthy melanin production and give your skin that irresistible deep tone. All in all, with this holy grail product, you can achieve your tanning goals by caring for your skin and enhancing your glow.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Soothes the skin
    • Fights free radicals
    • Brightens the complexion
    • Replenishes skin barrier
    • Suitable for frequent use
    Cons
    • Calls for frequent re-application
  • Best for a Silky-smooth Finish

    SUN DAY FUN DAY Indoor/Outdoor Tanning Cocktail

    SUN DAY FUN DAY Indoor/Outdoor Tanning Cocktail
  • With this incredibly hydrating tanning butter, which is brimming with potent essential tanning activators, you now unlock the ultimate bronze-glow sensation. Rich in the benefits of coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter, it leaves your skin feeling silky and smooth while also quenching its thirst. Not only that, this blend is also enhanced with vitamin E, which is well-known for its capacity to reverse the aging process and hence minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

    Pros
    • Exotic shea butter experience
    • Silky-smooth skin
    • Fantastic for mature skin
    • Unveil the bronze-glow
    • Moisture-locking formula
    • No more rough skin
    Cons
    • Re-application needed
  • Best Travel-friendly Product

    PAINT IT BLACK 50X AUTO DARKENING TAN TECHNOLOGY

    PAINT IT BLACK 50X AUTO DARKENING TAN TECHNOLOGY
  • Get ready for instant gratification with this instant dark tan solution and enhance your tanning experience! You'll witness a beautiful, bronzed transformation right after application. But there's more to it; it's not just a tanner; it's also a bronzer, that takes the upper hand at adding that radiant glow you desire. Plus, the tan accelerator ensures your tan lasts longer without any discolored surprises. That's not all the formula is loaded with a luxurious silicone emulsion that firms and softens your skin simultaneously. Experience the best of both worlds with a dark tanning lotion that pampers your skin.

    Pros
    • Tan accelerator added
    • Silicone emulsion for firm radiance
    • Feel more pampered
    • Long-lasting
    • Unwavering bronzing solution
    • Prompt radiance
    Cons
    • Calls for sunscreen for better results
  • Brown Sugar Black Chocolate 200x Black Bronzer

    Brown Sugar Black Chocolate 200x Black Bronzer
  • A sweet tanning solution infused with brown sugar and exclusive black chocolate, this bronzer is like an indulgent dessert for your skin! Made for all skin types, the tanning accelerator is loaded with ultra-rich moisturizing benefits of butter and silicone and is proudly free from any parching alcohol. Get ready to immerse in the bronzing benefits of this fantastic product. Achieve that forever 21 sun-kissed look with the allure of premium Black Chocolate — because who can resist the charm of bronzed beauty, right?

    Pros
    • Delivers a youthful appearance
    • Travel-friendly kit
    • Free of alcohol
    • Attractive packaging
    • Prevents moisture loss
    Cons
    • Delivers a very light tan
  • Snooki Leg Bronzer Skin Firming Indoor Tanning Bed Lotion

    Snooki Leg Bronzer Skin Firming Indoor Tanning Bed Lotion
  • Get your legs ready for the spotlight with an indoor tanning session! This beauty packs a powerful punch with its unique blend of black walnut and DHA. It enhances your tan after UV exposure plus takes your skin to the deepest and darkest levels of bronzed perfection. Also, this leg tanning solution is more than just that! It's a skin-firming agent, an accelerator, and a toner. So, whether you're strutting your stuff on the beach or hitting the tanning bed, make sure your legs are party-ready!

    Pros
    • Best for the legs
    • Antioxidant properties
    • DHA to protect genetics
    • Firms the skin
    • Gluten-free
    Cons
    • Only effective with regular use
  • Butter Me Brown Indoor Tanning Bed Lotion Bronzer

    Butter Me Brown Indoor Tanning Bed Lotion Bronzer
  • With this adorable product, you can find the perfect balance in your skin tone! Whether you prefer the lotion or oil form, the solution works for all skin types because it is available in both. For sure, after trying this, you want to give it a shoutout and add it to your cart again!  It's got that sweet brown sugar or fresh-baked cookies vibe, which even the most particular peeps will dig. The lotion itself is on point, serving up an instant tan boost right after your tanning sesh.

    Pros
    • Available in lotion and oil form
    • Suitable for all skin texture
    • Medium-deep tan
    • Instant tan-effects
    • Indulgent fragrance
    Cons
    • Not for dark-tanning effect

    Now that you have checked out the products, take a look at how you can pick the best one—

    Factors to Consider Before Choosing the Best Indoor Tanning Lotions:

    1. Know Your Skin Type: First thing, first! Your skin type is everything. Whether you are fair-toned or rocking a deeper complexion, there’s a lotion designed just for you. Choosing the right one will make all the difference. 

    2. Set Your Tanning Goals: What's your vibe, girl? Light, medium, or deep tan? Your tanning goals should guide your choice. Some lotions are all about that instant glow, while others work their magic gradually. 

    3. Tanning Bed Or Outdoor: Are you hitting the tanning bed or soaking up those rays outdoors? Make sure your lotion is the right fit for your chosen tanning environment. 

    4. Keep Your Skin Hydrated: Tanning can be thirsty work for your skin. Look for a lotion that gives you that extra moisture, keeping your skin healthy and silky smooth throughout and after your sessions.

    5. SPF And Tattoo Protection: If you're planning to slay outdoors, go for a lotion that's got your back with some SPF action. And if you've got tattoos, make sure it's got that tattoo protection on lock.

    6. Price And Brand: Set a budget, but also remember that quality matters. Opt for trusted brands to ensure you're getting a product that delivers.

    Now that you've got the inside scoop, you're ready to slay the tanning game. Check out how you can make everything more effective—

    How to Use An Indoor Tanning Lotion?

    Let us break it down for you on how to use these lotions like a pro-

    1. Shower And Exfoliate: Start with a lukewarm shower and a gentle exfoliation. This helps remove dead skin cells and creates a smooth canvas for the lotion. Extra attention is such a need for rough areas like elbows and knees.

    2. Pat Dry: No need to go all rough with the towel — just pat dry, fam! Be gentle and keep a bit of that moisture on your skin.

    3. Time for Lotion: Evenly spread that indoor tanning lotion all over, squad! Go easy on your hands and feet to dodge those uneven patches. And remember, wash those hands after, unless you're going for the tanned palm look! 

    4. Time to Catch Those Rays: Get in that tanning bed or soak up some sun outdoors. Don't forget to stick to the recommended time for your sesh.  

    5. Post-tan Vibes: Hydrate that skin with some moisturizer love! Also as you know tanning can be a bit drying, so keep your skin all happy and glowy. 

    6. Sun-Savvy: If you're catching those rays outdoors, slap on some zinc-based sunscreen, especially for your lovely face. Indoor tanning lotions don't have your back when it comes to sun protection. 

    Boom! That's the lowdown on using indoor tanning lotion — it's all about the prep, that smooth application, and post-tan self-care. Get set to slay that bronzed goddess vibe with confidence. You're going to look absolutely on fire!

    The Benefits of Using a Tanning Bed Lotion:

    Let's break it down and spill the tea on why they're a must for anyone aiming for that bronzed and stunning look-

    1. Speed It Up with Less Harm: Tanning bed solutions are packing ingredients that kickstart your tan game. They're all about revving up that melanin production, so you'll snag that golden glow quicker, and spend less time under those UV rays. 

    2. Moisture is Everything: Tanning can be thirsty work for your skin, but these lotions are stacked with hydration. They're here to keep your skin silky smooth, warding off that dry, leathery vibe nobody's aiming for. 

    3. Instant Results: Tanning bed lotions are all about immediate gratification. You're gonna rock that gorgeous, bronzed vibe immediately after your session. Your tan is cranked up to the max, and you'll strut out of that tanning bed looking like a total babe.

    4. Double the Love: Tanning bed lotions often come with bonus skincare perks. We're talking about vitamins, anti-aging mojo, and antioxidants to treat your skin right. It's not just about the tan; you're giving your skin some major pampering. 

    5. Not Uneven Tans: Skipping the lotion can lead to some wonky results. But with that lotion in the mix, you're getting a smooth, consistent coverage. Say goodbye to those awkward tan lines and blotchy patches, beautiful humans!

    Conclusion

    Choosing the best indoor tanning lotions is a total must! We've got your back with the deets on why it's essential from our experience. From the lowdown on different types to tips for picking your ideal match, we've got it all covered. And when it comes to rocking that tanning lotion, we've spilled the tea on how to get that bomb tan, faster and with less UV exposure. No more wasting hours under the scorching sun, or risking extra UV damage. These lotions are legit more than your average body moisturizer. They're your ticket to that bronzed glow without the sunburn. So, let's keep it ‘sun smart’ and slay that tanning game with confidence and radiant skin! That's the tea! Keep your skin smiling, and ensure you strut out of that tanning bed like an absolute bombshell. Get ready to slay the tanning game, you're going to own it!

    FAQ's

    How do indoor tanning lotions work?
    It only works best after you take a bath with lukewarm water, your skin gets ready to get the bronze glow. Avoid using it directly after work. Unwind yourself, relax then take a shower to rev up the glow.
    What is the best tanning bed lotion to get dark fast?
    Level 4 tanning beds and beyond. They're like the Ferrari of tanning! These bad boys offer crazy fast tanning times and, here's the kicker, next to no UVB rays. That means you're getting that wicked dark tan without even a whisper of a sunburn.
    How long before indoor tanning should you apply tanning lotion?
    Get that lotion game on point! Make sure you apply it at least 20-30 minutes before your tanning sesh. This gives it the right amount of time to cozy up to your skin and get absorbed.
    How long can you keep indoor tanning lotion?
    Tanning lotions come with a shelf life of around 12 months. So, no need to hoard them forever! Use them while they're at their best and keep that glow game strong.
    How long after indoor tanning can you shower?
    Wait for at least 8-10 hours before taking a shower.
    Is it better to shower before or after tanning?
    Well, the drill is that the longer you wait, the better result you get!
    Can I use indoor tanning lotions if I have sensitive skin or allergies?
    Tanning lotions are safe to use in sensitive areas and allergies as well!

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    When it comes to tanning care, you must trust the pros, and that's where our skincare expert Anoushka Sinha shines. She is not just your run-of-the-mill product talker, she knows the stuff inside out. She went through multiple product reviews and used a couple of products on herself before her last beach vacation to get the ultimate glow! Considering parameters like fragrance, effectiveness, and longevity, she rounded off these products. So, if you're on a quest for that perfect tan and want advice from the real deal, she is the go-to person undoubtedly. Trust us, and you'll be glowing like a true sun-kissed goddess!

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More