Oh my, look at how you GLOW!
Have you been out in the sun? Or maybe you used a self-tanning lotion? Whatever you’ve been doing, your tan looks great.
But how do you keep that glow for LONGER?
With an after-tanning lotion, of course!
Tans were never meant to be permanent, but you can extend the life cycle of your tan with a carefully chosen product. And the most important element to look for is the product’s moisturizing action.
Tanned skin needs hydration to stay fresh. When skin is properly moisturized, tans can be prolonged for days. Moisturizing also helps the tan to fade more evenly!
After a great deal of research into the various lotions currently on the market, SimplySunSafe recommends Lancaster Tan Maximizer as the best after-tanning lotion.
But how is an after-tanning lotion different from a standard moisturizer?
It comes down to the ingredients! Certain ingredients such as DHA (dihydroxyacetone) work to reduce tan break up, extending its life and improving its fade. Therefore, products with these kinds of ingredients are more effective at sustaining tans than regular moisturizers!
To learn more about the top five after-tanning lotions we recommend, read the comparison table, detailed buyer’s guide, and in-depth reviews below.
Best After-Tanning Lotion Comparison
 Lancaster Tan Maximizer |
  Moroccanoil After Sun Milk |
 Maui Babe After Browning Lotion |
 Australian Gold Moisture Lock Lotion |
 Devoted Creations So Naughty Moisturizer |
|
| Moisturizer or Tan Extender? | Tan Activator Complex, paraben-free, sulfate-free, anti-aging, anti-acne, skin brightening | Moisturizer | Tan Extender | Tan Extender | Tan Extender |
| Scent | Light, floral | Fragrance Originale | Light, refreshing, slightly ‘flowery’ | Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla | Pink Sugar |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Buyer’s Guide
To make sure that you get the most out of your after-tanning lotion, here are a few factors that you should consider when buying a product:
Regular Moisturizer vs. Tan Extender
The most important thing to think about when buying an after-tanning product is what you want to get out of the product.
If you are just looking for a moisturizer to hydrate your skin and keep your tan looking healthy, you can widen your search to include general moisturizers even if they are not specifically for after tanning. One example is Hempz Pomegranate Herbal Body Moisturizer.
However, if you are searching for a product that is specifically formulated to extend your tan and prevent fading, then you’ll want to look for products marked as ‘tan extenders’ or ‘after tanning lotions’.
These products have special ingredients that lock in moisture within the skin to prevent that beautiful glowing tan from going away too soon.
Ingredients
The next most important factor is to check the ingredients so that you know what’s in your lotion.
SimplySunSafe acknowledges that it can be hard to know what’s good and what’s not with so many different opinions floating around in magazines, books, or on the internet. Here’s a brief description of two such examples of ingredients that are commonly found in tan extending lotions and moisturizers:
DHA: DHA is a widely used ingredient in tanning lotions and tan extenders. It is naturally derived from sugar beets or cane sugar and interacts non-toxically with amino acids on the skin’s surface, effectively browning the skin.
While this is an FDA-approved ingredient for cosmetic use and is widely-used to maintain tans and reduce fade, caution must be taken to wash the lotion off hands after application, since it can darken palms.
Its effects are also unknown when ingested or inhaled or when used around mucous membranes such as the mouth, nose, and eyes, so it is best to avoid using it in these areas. You can find out more about DHA on the FDA website.
Parabens: Parabens are used to prevent the growth of microbes in a wide range of cosmetics. While not directly harmful and almost always present in very low quantities, parabens have been linked to various health risks after prolonged use.
You can find out more about parabens using the Safe Cosmetics factsheet.
Scent
Lastly, scent is a very important factor when searching for a good product. Even if you found a product that would extend your tan for life, if it had an unappealing smell, you still probably wouldn’t use it!
For this reason, it’s key to find a product that has a smell you love. Make sure to read about the scent of the product before buying to ensure that it’s a scent you believe you’ll enjoy.
5 Best After-Tanning Lotions
After thorough research into the different after-tanning products on the market, which included analyzing product reviews, examining manufacturing details, and partaking in skin care forums, SimplySunSafe has chosen these 5.
Each recommended product moisturizes very well, works in some way to enhance your tan, and each one also has very high customer approval ratings.
1. Lancaster Tan Maximizer Soothing Moisturizer
- Tan Activator Complex stimulates melanin production and enhances the tanning process. It helps you keep an even, golden and long-lasting tan.
- It helps keep the skin hydrated and restore the skin barrier shielding the skin from external aggressors
- It will, in essence, hydrate, repair and soothe the skin helping you keep a beautiful tan for up to one month.
- All skin types, including sensitive skin.
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
First up on SimplySunSafe’s best after tanning lotions is none other than the luxurious Lancaster Golden Tan Maximizer After Sun Lotion! This expensive yet exceptionally effective sun lotion became one of the popular after tanning lotions.
This luxurious Lancaster’s product is SimplySunSafe’s pick for the best moisturizer to keep a tan.
It relieves skin that’s been out in the sun while prolonging tans for up to one month! It has no added color, but it has a specially formulated Tan Activator Complex (T.A.C.) which increases melanin production for a longer-lasting, quicker, deeper, more beautiful tan.
Not only does it deepen and darken your natural tan, but it keeps skin feeling soft and moisturized, all while having a delicious light scent. There’s no surprise here why it’s been described as “miracle juice” for your skin!
Additionally, it is free of parabens and sulfates and it has anti-aging and acne-fighting properties. The only downside to the Lancaster Tan Maximizer is that it is quite expensive. However, if price is not an issue, I definitely recommend this product for its high quality and effectiveness.
- Tan Activator Complex increases melanin production for a naturally deeper, darker tan
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Anti-aging and acne-fighting
- Brightens skin
- Expensive
2. Moroccanoil After Sun Milk
- MOROCCANOIL AFTER SUN MILK 150ML
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ranked second on the list is none other than Moroccanoil’s After Sun Milk! It is the perfect moisturizer for after a day in the sun. This lightweight lotion hydrates and nourishes the skin while providing broad-spectrum, SPF 50 sun protection from damaging UV rays.
After Sun Milk is carefully formulated with nourishing ingredients such as Aloe, Argan Oil, Coconut Oil, and Vitamin E to penetrate deeply into the surface of your skin to leave it feeling soft and smooth. It can be applied immediately after you’ve been exposed to the sun or use on its own to nourish your skin with continued everyday use.
Moroccanoil After Sun Milk is also very popular because of its exceptional after sun tanning effect giving you the perfect sun-kissed glow every time!
To maximize the promising effects of Moroccanoil After Sun Milk, it is recommended that you incorporate the lotion into your skincare routine at least once a day. Gently smoothen a generous amount all over your, especially on dry areas. Leave enough time for the lotion to be absorbed. Reapply a gentle amount as needed, depending on the duration of sun exposure.
Moroccanoil is one of the leading hair and skincare companies that is trusted by millions of people all around the world. It is widely known as the pioneer of Moroccanoil Treatment which is trusted and recommended by renowned dermatologists in the industry. Moroccanoil’s signature is the incorporation of Argan Oil to all its products to promote intense nourishment even after effectively protecting the hair and skin from all damages.
- Lightweight formula; Easily absorbed by the skin
- Enriched with Anti-Oxidants; Nourishes and hydrates the skin for a younger and firmer look
- Exceptional sun-kissed glow
- Full-body sun protection; Equipped with broad-spectrum SPF 50 to combat harmful effects of the sun
- Contains a light fragrance
- Extends light tanning of the body
3. Maui Babe After Browning Lotion Tan Enhancer
- THE HAWAIIAN SECRET TO SEAL IN YOUR BEAUTIFUL TAN: Prevent your gorgeous tan from fading with the Maui Babe After Browning Lotion that works wonders on enhancing your tan and sealing it in place. Our after sun tan enhancer lotion is everything you need to prolong the life of your hard-earned natural tan and enjoy a radiant, smooth and attractive dark tanned body that will look spotless for days!
- GREAT MOISTURIZING & HEALING ACTION FOR BABY SOFT SKIN: Sun, sea salt and summer breeze tend to dehydrate your skin, leaving it prone to peeling and dullness. Packed with amazing nourishing ingredients, vitamins and antioxidants, this excellent after sun skincare lotion helps revitalize your skin and offers deep hydration for unmatched softness. Perfect for treating light sunburn and preventing peeling skin.
- NATURAL HAWAIIAN INGREDIENTS FOR PROVEN RESULTS: Our tanning lotion enhancer features an array of skin-loving ingredients including: soothing Aloe Vera Gel, refreshing Purified Hawaiian Water and nourishing Macadamia Nut Oil that help revitalize even red, irritated and dry, flaky skin. Cruelty-free and as natural as it can be, it makes a perfectly safe choice for all skin types, even for people with the most sensitive skin.
- LOVELY COCONUT SCENT & RICH, LIGHTWEIGHT FORMULA: For best results, shake the bottle vigorously and apply a generous amount to the desired areas after showering. Lightweight, fast-absorbent, ultra-moisturizing and with a wonderful, light coconut scent, you may use this Hawaiian body moisturizer all year round for silky smooth skin. Plus, with every order you will receive 1 8oz bottles, perfect for daily use!
- MADE IN THE USA – FROM HAWAII, TO ALL OVER THE WORLD: This authentic body after browning lotion is created by our long-standing family owned business in Maui, Hawaii, to bring some well-needed holiday magic to any destination. Tried, tested and trusted by thousands of women all over the world for its superior tan-sealing action, you have every good reason to make it yours today!
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Maui Babe After Browning Lotion is a classic after tanning product from Maui, Hawaii.
The special formula helps to heal dry skin that’s undergone damage by the sun, salt, and wind. It prevents peeling and flaking after tanning or burning, and locks in tans while also preventing them from fading.
Additionally, it is appropriate for all-year usage as a general skin moisturizer for softer, smoother skin, especially for people living in very dry conditions.
Its most active natural ingredients are Macadamia Nut Oil and Aloe Vera, which work to soothe and moisturize skin after tanning.
The only real downside to this product is its use of parabens.
- Extends tan and prevents fade
- Appropriate as a general moisturizer
- Heals damaged skin
- Contains parabens
4. Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender Lotion
- HOLD ON TO THE GOLDEN GLOW LONGER - Australian Gold's Moisture Lock Tan Extender increases the longevity of color and maintains your tan giving you a beautiful, luxurious and well-moisturized skin through the summer months
- MOISTURE LOCK FORMULA - Contains Sunflower Seed Oil and Olive Fruit Oil that work to moisturize deeply - this non-greasy hydrating formula dries quickly, leaving the skin soft & supple, with the tan locked right in place. It does not contain sunscreen
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS - Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and the goodness of Vitamin E, both of which are powerful antioxidants, this tan extender fights off free radicals, gently nourishes and cleanses your skin leaving it smooth and fresh
- FEELS LIKE YOU'RE ON THE BEACH - With loads of Aloe Vera to naturally soothe and deeply nourish skin that remains hydrated for long, and its delectable Cocoa Dreams fragrance in a mix of Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla, take an instant vacation to the sea!
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED LOTION - Australian Gold's time-tested formula is designed to be PABA Free, Dye Free, Alcohol Free & Gluten Free while having the goodness of hydrating ingredients for a luscious feeling skin
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This lotion by Australian Gold is excellent for hydrating skin and for helping to extend the life of your beautiful summer tan!
It uses a unique blend of ingredients which lock in moisture for smooth and silky skin, leaving you with a beautiful and soft, glowing complexion. Additionally, it is non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and has properties that help to tighten skin.
Additionally, it is specially formulated to be free of PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid), dyes, alcohol, and gluten.
Some of its enriching ingredients are the following:
- Australian Tea Tree Oil: a strong antioxidant, the oil gently cleanses to ensure smooth skin.
- Sunflower Seed and Olive Fruit Oils: these oils have moisturizing properties and work to smooth and hydrate skin.
- Aloe Vera: This natural extract naturally soothes and conditions skin.
- Panthenol: This is a non-irritating, highly moisturizing form of Vitamin B which also reduces inflammation and itching.
- Vitamin E: This ingredient works to nourish skin.
Plus, it has a delicious coconut-citrus smell that most buyers love! Those who are sensitive to scents, however, may want to try out just a bit to start, as the smell may be slightly too strong.
Like Maui Babe After Browning Lotion, the main downside to this product is that it also contains parabens.
- Extends tan by locking in moisture
- Non-greasy, fast-absorbing moisturizer
- Skin-tightening properties
- Buyers sensitive to scents may find the smell a bit too strong.
- Contains parabens
5. Devoted Creations So Naughty Nude Tan Extending Moisturizer
- Moisturizer
- Bronzer
- Silicone
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last but not least, Devoted Creations’ So Naughty Nude Tan Extending Moisturizer is another great product that not only moisturizes skin, prolongs tans, and prevents fading, but that also gives skin an extra boost; It’s a bronzer, and also has anti-aging and skin-firming properties so that skin starts to appear younger and feel tighter, silkier, softer, and smoother.
Additionally, it will leave your skin illuminated and glowing thanks to its silicone and diamond dust. And all this, with a delicious pink sugar smell!
Some further benefits of the product’s technologies are the following:
- Dead Sea Mineral Complex: to repair skin damage, improve skin tone, texture, and elasticity, and to reverse signs of aging.
- Argan Oil: to prevent premature skin aging
- SunxTend™: to prevent color fading and prolong tan
- Ideal Lift™ Technology: to improve skin elasticity and tightness and fight against sagging
- Body Fit™ Technology: to reduce the appearance of cellulite and improve firmness
- Renovage™ Technology: to firm, hydrate, and plump the skin
- Light, silky moisturizer
- Anti-aging and skin-firming properties
- Diamond dust skin illuminators
- DHA-free bronzer
- Some fragrant ingredients may cause irritation to sensitive skin
Conclusion
I wrote this guide for people searching for the best after tan lotion. Hopefully you have gained more knowledge about different lotions on the market by reading this article, and you are now equipped with the tools to make a decision on which is the best after tan moisturizer for your needs!
While all listed products are great for different purposes, SimplySunSafe recommends Lancaster Tan Maximizer , thanks to its natural, organic ingredients and its tan extending properties. We also love that it is an ethically conscious company that is proudly cruelty-free, vegan, and free of dyes and parabens.
The second option is Moroccanoil After Sun Milk, as its lightweight formula, enriched with anti-oxidants and exceptional sun-kissed glow.
Other options listed, however are great for other needs. Hempz Pomegranate Herbal Body Moisturizer is an excellent, and economically-priced moisturizer in case you are not interested in a tan extender, while Devoted Creations So Naughty Nude Tan Extending Moisturizer is a great example of an aesthetically boosting after tan lotion since it’s also a bronzer that works to illuminate skin.
I always love to learn about other new products and to hear about your experiences with the ones listed so if you have any further recommendations on what you believe to be the best after tanning lotion, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
FAQs
Q: What should you put on your skin after tanning?
A: Moisturizing your skin after tanning will help keep the color looking gorgeous. The best moisturizers for this contain hyaluronic acid, a lubricating chemical that occurs naturally in our bodies. Applying moisturizer with hyaluronic acid has been shown to increase the elasticity of the skin and overall hydration of both people who are tanned or those just beginning their journey towards summer bronze-age goddess status.
It’s important not to apply any lotion before showering because it prevents water from penetrating into deeper levels where these really need them most! Also, use a non-comedogenic moisturizer if your skin is prone to acne.
Q: What lotions not to use after tanning?
A: Avoid using lotions that contain essential oils and retinol as they may damage your skin. Some of the essential oils such as citronella, lime, and orange are photosensitive in nature. Similarly, retinol also acts as a photosensitive agent, which may make your skin dry and patchy.
Retinol may make your skin peel and cause uneven tan. So, avoid using active ingredients, both natural and chemical.
Q: What not to do after tanning?
A: You should avoid taking a shower right after tanning to prevent the skin from drying as the shower may strip extra oils. Additionally, do not peel your skin if it starts to get patchy in some areas. If you peel your skin, it will result in uneven tanning and may lead to itching. Apart from this, do not wear tight clothes as your skin may need to breathe after the tanning session.
Q: Should you shower after tanning?
A: Whether you are tanning under the sun or a tanning bed, your skin continues to tan even after 2-3 hours of the session. In general, it is recommended to avoid taking a shower for this duration for your tan to develop. Moreover, this helps in maintaining oils in the skin so that it does not dry out after tanning.
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