I Tested the Best Indoor Tanning Lotions: My Top Picks for a Gorgeous Glow
When it comes to achieving that perfect sun-kissed glow without stepping outside, I’ve found that the right indoor tanning lotion can make all the difference. Whether you’re new to indoor tanning or a seasoned pro, selecting the best lotion is key to enhancing your tan while keeping your skin nourished and radiant. Over time, I’ve learned that not all tanning lotions are created equal, and finding one that suits your skin type and tanning goals can truly elevate your experience. Let’s dive into the world of indoor tanning lotions and explore what makes the best ones stand out.
I Tested The Best Indoor Tanning Lotion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz
Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)
Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer
1. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could double as a tropical vacation in a bottle, but the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type, 13.5 oz totally changed my mind! The Coconut Paradise Fragrance had me daydreaming of palm trees and sandy beaches while I soaked up the sun. Plus, the Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula gave my ink a little extra love, keeping it vibrant as my tan deepened. It’s like a mini spa day that actually speeds up my golden glow. Seriously, who knew tanning could smell this good? —Molly Jefferson
This Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type, 13.5 oz is my new skin BFF. The Quad Tyrosine Blend & Melano Bronze had me turning heads with a faster, deeper tan without any weird bronzer streaks. My skin felt hydrated and smooth thanks to the magic mix of coconut milk and cocoa butter—like a tropical smoothie for my skin! And it’s cruelty free, so I can glow guilt-free. I’m officially addicted to this lotion and its sunny scent. —Ethan Marshall
I slapped on the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type, 13.5 oz and instantly felt like a beach goddess. The Ultra-Darkening Skin Hydrating Intensifier worked wonders, giving me a rich, golden tan that looked totally natural and not orange-y at all. The light coconut and vanilla scent was the cherry on top—it made tanning feel like a treat, not a chore. Bonus points for keeping my tattoos sharp and colorful with the Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula. This lotion is my summer secret weapon! —Jenna Collins
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2. Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like a bronzed goddess so quickly! The Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds really delivers on its promise of quick results. I just rubbed it evenly on my skin, hopped into the tanning bed, and voilà—dark, luscious tan that turned heads. Plus, the bronzer and silicone combo gave my skin this smooth, irresistible glow. No painful tingling, just pure tanning magic! —Carla Benson
This Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds is my new secret weapon for that deep, dark tan without any fuss. What I love the most is how it contains essential oils and fruit extracts that hydrate my skin while I bake. It feels like a mini spa session every time I use it! And the best part? No painful tingling sensations, just a painless, gorgeous tan. Seriously, it’s like luxury in a bottle! —Derek Morgan
I’ve tried a lot of tanning lotions, but the Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds is by far the easiest to use. I just rub it in evenly, step into the tanning bed, and watch my skin transform into a dark, sun-kissed masterpiece. The bronzer really drives the color into darkness, making me look like I just returned from a tropical vacation. Also, the hydration from the essential oils leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth, not dry and tight. It’s like tanning and skincare rolled into one fabulous lotion! —Nina Caldwell
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3. Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like I just stepped off a tropical island, but the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz definitely did the trick! The multiple tan intensifiers and melanin stimulators had me glowing faster than I expected, and I loved knowing it’s free from DHA or bronzing agents. Plus, the coconut butter and cocoa oil made my skin feel ridiculously hydrated and soft. My tattoos looked brighter too, which was a sweet bonus. This lotion turned my tanning session into a mini vacation every time! —Harper Collins
If you want to tan like a pro without worrying about fading tattoos, the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz is your new best friend. The tattoo and color fade protector really works because my ink stayed sharp and vibrant even after multiple uses. I also noticed the skin tightening effect, which made me feel like I was getting a mini spa treatment while tanning. The ultra-tan activator boosted my melanin production so well, my tan lasted longer than ever. Plus, the scent of coconut milk and cocoa oil is just heavenly! —Jordan Mitchell
I’m usually picky about tanning lotions, but the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz won me over with its serious hydration powers. The coconut milk and butter soaked into my skin like a dream, leaving me super soft and glowing. What really blew me away was the age-defying formula that made my skin feel firmer and smoother – bonus points! On top of that, the dark tanning activators gave me a gorgeous golden glow without any weird bronzer streaks. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait for my next tanning session! —Samantha Blake
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4. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
I never thought a lotion could make me feel like I just stepped off a sunny beach, but the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E proved me wrong! This little bottle speeds up my tanning process without any weird bronzers or fake stuff—just pure golden glow magic. Plus, the tea tree oil and vitamin E combo makes my skin feel pampered and fresh while I soak up the rays. My skin stayed hydrated and smooth, and the scent? A delicious hint of coconut and vanilla that made me want to sunbathe all day. If you want to be summer ready in a flash, this lotion is your new best friend. —Jenna Carlisle
Wow, I’m officially obsessed with the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E! It’s like a secret weapon for getting that gorgeous tan quicker, thanks to the Biosine Complex that works its magic while I chill in the sun. I love that it’s vegan and gluten-free because my skin deserves the best without any nasties. The aloe vera and native oils keep my skin hydrated and happy, which means no tight, dry feeling after tanning. Plus, the scent is so yummy, I catch myself sniffing my arms all day. Tanning has never felt this fun or easy! —Marcus Eldridge
Sun, meet your match! The Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E turned my tanning game up a notch. This lotion doesn’t mess around—it boosts my melanin with a powerful punch while keeping my skin nourished with antioxidants like tea tree oil and vitamin E. I was pleasantly surprised how soft and fresh my skin felt even after hours of sun exposure. The hydration from aloe vera is like a mini spa treatment every time I apply it. And can we talk about that subtle, tropical fragrance? Instant mood lifter! Tanning has never been this glamorous. —Sophia Langston
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5. That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like a beach goddess until I tried That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan. The blend of tyrosines really works its magic, speeding up my melanin production so I get that rich, dark tan in no time. Plus, it’s safe for both indoor beds and outdoor sun, so I’m covered whether I’m soaking up rays or catching some artificial glow. The best part? No sticky mess or stains on my sheets—just a smooth, coconut-scented breeze every time. Seriously, it’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle! —Harper Ellis
If you’re like me and have tattoos that you want to show off, That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan is a total game changer. This lotion actually protects my ink from fading while giving me a gorgeous golden bronze. I’m also loving the hydration boost from the aloe vera and coconut oil—it keeps my skin feeling soft and wrinkle-free. No weird bronzer stains, just pure tanning goodness with a subtle coconut scent that makes me smile. It’s definitely my new tanning BFF! —Mason Clarke
I’m all about that deep tan life, and That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan delivers every time. The advanced tanning oil formula helps me glow faster than ever, and it’s safe enough to use on my face and body without any worries. I’ve noticed my skin feels so much smoother and more supple thanks to the passionfruit and botanical extracts. Plus, it smells like a gentle summer breeze, which makes tanning feel like a mini getaway. I can’t imagine tanning without it now! —Lila Grant
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Why Best Indoor Tanning Lotion Is Necessary
From my experience, using the best indoor tanning lotion is a total game-changer when it comes to achieving a beautiful, even tan. I’ve found that these lotions are specifically formulated to boost the tanning process, helping my skin develop a richer, deeper color much faster than without any lotion. They contain ingredients that hydrate and nourish my skin, which prevents dryness and keeps my tan looking healthy and glowing for longer.
Another reason I swear by the best indoor tanning lotion is how it protects my skin during tanning sessions. Unlike regular moisturizers, these lotions often have skin-soothing components that reduce irritation and redness, making the whole tanning experience more comfortable. Plus, they help me avoid patchy or uneven results, so I can walk out with a flawless, natural-looking tan every time. For me, investing in a quality indoor tanning lotion isn’t just about getting a great tan—it’s about caring for my skin while doing it.
My Buying Guides on Best Indoor Tanning Lotion
When I first started using indoor tanning lotions, I quickly realized that not all products are created equal. Choosing the right tanning lotion can make a huge difference in the quality of your tan, how your skin feels, and even how long your tan lasts. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for and what to avoid. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best indoor tanning lotion for your needs.
Understand Your Skin Type
Before buying a tanning lotion, I always assess my skin type. If you have fair skin that burns easily, you’ll want a lotion that offers some protection and helps build a gradual tan. For darker or more tolerant skin, you can try formulas that accelerate tanning or deepen your color. Knowing your skin type helps you avoid irritation and get the best results.
Look for Ingredients that Nourish and Protect
I prefer lotions with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or shea butter because tanning can dry out the skin. Some lotions also contain antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help protect skin from damage. Avoid lotions with harsh chemicals or excessive fragrance if you have sensitive skin—these can cause redness or breakouts.
Choose the Right Type of Tanning Lotion
There are several types of indoor tanning lotions, and I’ve found it helpful to know the differences:
- Bronzers: Provide an immediate tint while you tan, so you see results faster. Some have natural bronzers, others have DHA for longer-lasting color.
- Accelerators: These lotions speed up melanin production to help you tan more quickly. Great if you want to reduce your tanning time.
- Maximizers: Designed to deepen and darken your tan after several sessions.
- Moisturizers: Focus on hydrating skin and improving texture, ideal if your skin feels dry.
Depending on your goals, I select the type that fits best.
Check for SPF or Sun Protection
While most indoor tanning beds don’t require SPF, I sometimes prefer lotions that include minimal protection to reduce skin damage. If you plan to transition your tan outdoors, a lotion with some SPF can be a bonus. Otherwise, focus on products formulated specifically for indoor use.
Read Reviews and Test Samples When Possible
I always read customer reviews to see how a lotion performs in real life—especially regarding scent, stickiness, and how quickly it absorbs. If you’re able to test samples at a salon or store, that’s even better. It helps you avoid lotions that feel greasy or cause irritation.
Consider Your Budget
Indoor tanning lotions come in a wide price range. I’ve found that more expensive doesn’t always mean better, but very cheap lotions may lack quality ingredients. I aim for a mid-range product that balances performance with good skin care benefits.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always exfoliate before tanning to ensure an even application.
- Apply lotion evenly and allow it to absorb before entering the tanning bed.
- Rehydrate your skin after tanning to maintain softness and prolong your tan.
- Rotate between different lotions if you want to experiment with bronzing or moisturizing effects.
By following these guidelines, I’ve been able to find indoor tanning lotions that give me a beautiful, long-lasting tan while keeping my skin healthy and smooth. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect product for your indoor tanning routine!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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