Are you getting ready to up your tanning game?
What you need to know is that an important part of getting a good tan is to use a good sun tanning lotion – a product that will help you get the golden-brown tan you’ve been waiting for all while protecting your skin from drying out! These lotions will enhance tans, and increase skin’s melanin production.
But there are a lot of things to consider when shopping for the best sun tanning lotion for your needs. For example:
- Are you going to be tanning outside in the sun, or inside in tanning salons?
- Does your skin darken easily or is it more prone to burning?
- Are you looking for something that will help you naturally tan, or something that will also give you some extra color with a bronzer?
- Are you looking for something totally natural, or just looking for a product that gets the job done?
There is a huge variety of products on the market, all for different needs based on what you are looking for. In this article, I will discuss some of the best options out there taking into account a variety of different factors and individual preferences.
But what’s the best sun tanning lotion? SimplySunSafe is here to help!
After researching many of the most best sun tanning products today and narrowing them down to five lotions, I recommend Maui Babe Browning Lotion as the best option. Continue reading to see why it’s been named the #1 best-selling tanning oil and why SimplySunSafe agrees! Below you will also find a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth reviews of the top five tanning lotions on the market.
Buyer’s Guide
To make sure that you buy the best tanning lotion for the sun as suitable to your needs, here are a few factors that you should consider when buying a product:
Indoor, Outdoor, or Sunless?
Where are you planning on soaking up the rays? Out in the sun, in a tanning bed, or with a self-tanning sunless product? Or maybe a bit of all of the above?
There are certain lotions that are specifically designed for these different purposes.
Sunless lotions are lotions that, upon application, will give you a slight bronzing right away that deepens over time. They work by using ingredients such as DHA that cause chemical reactions with amino acids on the skin’s surface, causing skin to darken.
Sunless or self-tanning products do not require you to go out in the sun or to a tanning salon. You can get that sun-kissed glow within the comfort of your own home, and without exposing yourself to the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.
They have become increasingly popular due to fears over skin cancer, but users must be cautious when using it to avoid streaking or staining skin when applying it.
Indoor lotions are products intended for use in tanning beds, or with tanning lamps. They do not usually contain sunscreen and are formulated to block artificial UV rays, not the natural rays from the sun.
Additionally, they have ingredients that protect tanning beds, unlike outdoor tanning lotions which can damage them. Among indoor lotions are tanning accelerators, which boost skin’s melanin production to quickly form a base tan, and bronzers, which are meant to really bring out and deepen the dark pigments of the skin.
And finally, outdoor lotions are products that are meant for use out in the sun. To protect yourself from cancer-causing rays, it is advisable to find a product that contains sunscreen, or to use sunscreen underneath the outdoor lotion.
You want to consider your skin color and skin type, where you will be tanning, and your desired outcome when looking for a product. Depending on these factors, you may choose a product with more or less SPF, and one that is suited to your skin type.
In the comparison chart below, you will find our five recommended products listed as indoor or outdoor lotions. All are appropriate for outdoor use, but there are a few that can be used indoors as well. Keep reading to find out which is the best lotion for sun tanning for you.
Scent
Another important factor to take into consideration when purchasing a sun tanning lotion is the scent of the product. Tanning implies sunshine and summer so many people love a product that smells tropical, fresh, and summery. However, some users may prefer something a bit lighter or even something with no fragrance at all.
SimplySunSafe has taken this into account and you will find below in the comparison chart that each product has a distinct smell from the other options, and there is even one that is scent-free.
Take a look to see which ones you think you would enjoy the most!
Best Sun Tanning Lotion Comparison
| Maui Babe Browning Lotion |
 Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil |
 SunGodZ Tanning Lotion |
 Sun Bum Browning Lotion |
 Sky Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil |
|
| Indoor or Outdoor use? | Indoor / Outdoor | Outdoor | Indoor / Outdoor | Outdoor | Indoor / Outdoor |
| Scent | Coffee | Coconut | Light berries / floral scent | Chocolate | Scent-Free |
| Price | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon |
5 Best Sun Tanning Lotions
After thorough research into the different tanning products on the market, which included analyzing product reviews, examining manufacturing details, and participating in skin care forums, SimplySunSafe has chosen Maui Babe Browning Lotion as the best lotion to get a tan in the sun.
Each recommended product is highly moisturizing, works in some way to help you get the dark tan you want, and each one also has very high customer approval ratings.
1. Maui Babe Browning Lotion
- THE HAWAIIAN SECRET TO A GORGEOUS TAN: The Amazing Maui Babe Browning Lotion is a local Hawaiian formula that has been loved for years for its impressive power to do exactly what it promises: to accelerate the sun triggered tanning process and offer you a natural, impressively beautiful tan. Simply apply it all over your body and get the most out of your time in the sun! **Maui Babe Browning lotion is not a self tanner or bronzer. You do need to be in the sun in order to acquire a tan.**
- 100% HAWAIIAN INGREDIENTS FOR TRUE RESULTS: This excellent, 100% Cruelty-Free tan accelerator boasts a unique formula packed with local Hawaiian ingredients your skin is sure to love. Among other skin-nourishing agents, our bronzing body lotion is rich in: Kakui Nut Oil, Antioxidants, Vitamin E, C & A, Kona Coffee Plant Extract and Aloe - just what you need for a radian, deeply moisturized, sun-kissed body.
- SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES, YES, EVEN FAIR SKIN: Unlike tanning lotions that may make your skin look orangey and unnatural, the Maui Babe tan accelerating cream works in synergy with your skin to help it achieve a natural tan that compliments all skin types. A prefect sun tan lotion choice even for people with fair skin. No need to spend ages under the sun! For first time users, we recommend to do a small patch test prior to applying to the whole body.
- EASY TO USE | GREAT FOR DEEP, LONG-LASTING TAN: Ready to sunbathe? To avoid sunburn, first use any SPF 30+ and let sit on skin for 5-10 minutes. After that, apply the Maui sun tan lotion generously and evenly all over your body 15 minutes before sun exposure. For maximum results, reapply frequently, especially after swimming or towel drying. Soon, your skin will get a golden, ultra-attractive deep tan that will last for a long time. [Always monitor your sun time to prevent burning!]
- MADE IN THE USA – FROM HAWAII, TO ALL OVER THE WORLD: This authentic body 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-accelerating action, you have every good reason to make it yours today!
Last update on 2023-05-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SimplySunSafe picks Maui Babe Browning Lotion as the best sun tanning lotion on the market. It’s all-natural, and made from a secret Hawaiian formula. It is extremely popular among tanners because it produces a beautiful dark tan by accelerating the tanning process. It is designed for all skin types and tones and is even good for sensitive and fair skin.
In addition to all that, we love it because it comes in both indoor and outdoor versions to suit your needs. The classic formula is the outdoor lotion, but if you are only looking to tan indoors, opt for the salon version since it is specially formulated with sunflower oil instead of mineral oil to avoid damage on tanning beds.
Its natural ingredients include the following:
- Light mineral oil
- Kukui nut oil
- Antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E
- Kona coffee plant extract
- Aloe
- Potassium Iodide
One thing to note is that this lotion does not contain any SPF protection so sunscreen should be applied at least 10 minutes prior to slathering on the Maui Babe formula to ensure you are protected from the sun while you tan.
- Comes in indoor and outdoor formulas
- Outdoor formula contains sunscreen
- Free of parabens
- Soy and gluten-free
- May be too greasy for very oily skin
2. Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil
- Reef safe Sunscreen, made without oxybenzone and octinoxate
- A rare blend of nature's rich tanning oils
- Formulated with exotic moisturizing ingredients
- Contains skin conditioners
- Antioxidant vitamins a, c and e
Last update on 2023-05-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another great option is the Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil. This is a highly-moisturizing oil that pampers and soothes skin, while producing a dark and even tan.
It contains a rich blend of oils, exotic island botanicals, and smells deliciously coconutty. SimplySunSafe loves this formula because not only is it great for skin, but since it’s designated as reef-safe, it’s great for the ocean too!
This product is a classic tanning oil that’s been around for a long time, which should prove how effective it is! However, it has no UV protection so users who do not have a base tan already should make sure to apply sunscreen before applying the oil.
Some users complain it is a greasy formula that it hard to get off afterwards, but this is also something that is natural considering it is an oil. Make sure you don’t mind a bit of a greasy feeling if you are considering this product!
- Contains skin conditioners
- Reef safe; no oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Contains skin-nourishing antioxidants
- Only to be used by those who already have a good base tan
- Greasy
3. SunGodZ Artemis Apollo Sun Tanning Lotion
- SUPERIOR SHOWER PROOF TECHNOLOGY – Your Premium bottle of indoor tanning lotion is specifically engineered with Anti-Run Off ingredients so you can Shower with peace of mind (your new tan accelerator not only lasts in the shower, but also Feels Silky Smooth!). Did we mention that your New Sexy Dark Tan shows up Extra Fast!? You’ll get a Dark Tan in no time. You wanted a Sexy , Fast , Silky , and Top Quality silicone tanning lotion with bronzer…and now you have it!
- LUXURY HYDRATION WITH EVERY MOISTURIZING DROP – If you want to Feel Smooth with Softer Skin then you’ve found the Right Choice…Your new bottle has the best bronzer so it Feels Rich and also gives you an Ultra Pro Tan ! If you’ve ever used cheap suntan lotion you know they feel cheap…Congratulations because Now you found the best indoor tanning bed lotion so you’ll always feel great! With your dark tan accelerator your Skin will Turn Heads and Radiate Beauty… Just Click Add to Cart!
- GUARANTEED TATOO SAFE & ANTI FADE – We’ve got you covered! With your new lotion for tanning (equipped with tattoo protectant) your Beautiful tans will Last Longer and keep your tattoos Flawless…AND there’s More! Say goodbye to quickly fading tans and say hello to Sexy Dark Tans that Last. It’s not magic, it’s quality… We’ve scientifically constructed a lotion for tanning beds that keeps your skin in its Gorgeously Tanned state for an Extended Period of time… Plus, you’ll never turn orange!
- VERSITYLE & MULTI PURPOSE – Whether you’re going out for a Relaxing day at the salon or Lazy day at the beach… You’ve found the Right Choice! Your tanning lotion for indoor tanning works Perfectly as a tanning bed lotion or outdoor suntan lotion AND you’ll smell Superb with our custom unisex scent. You can travel with peace of mind knowing you will be able to tan indoors or outdoors…PLUS you’ll Smell Fresh! You know the Right Choice… (it’s time to treat yourself to a Quality Experience).
- BEST VALUE GUARANTEED - We want you to lavish your time in the sun and feel COMFORTABLE doing it! With the best indoor tanning lotion for indoor tanning beds on the market…Tanning will have never felt more Pleasant. If you’re Excited to use the Sexiest , Fasted , Longest , and Most Comfortable tanning lotion out there , BUY NOW Risk Free… Backed by our Apollo Tan Money Back Guarantee! But HURRY! This Price is Temporary and won’t last, so Click Add to Cart NOW!
Last update on 2023-05-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for an excellent indoor tanning lotion – you have found it! This SunGodZ formula is a luxurious, premium silicone tanning lotion that includes bronzer to help make your dark tan even darker. It is also designed to accelerate the tanning process so you can get darker faster. It’s paraben-free and cruelty-free so you can enjoy the product guilt-free.
It also has a silky and durable design that is waterproof and shower-proof. With its anti-run-off and anti-fade ingredients, you can shower for longer without worrying about streaking or fading, and can be sure to have a longer-lasting tan.
SimplySunSafe also loves this product because it’s versatile. While it’s marketed principally as an indoor lotion since it is safe for tanning beds, it can be used outside as well! Infused with agave extract, argan oil, and coconut oil, the SunGodZ Apollo/Artemis tanning lotion will also leave your skin moisturized and nourished.
In addition, if you have tattoos, you don’t have to worry because this product will protect them.
- Shower Proof
- Contains bronzer
- Ingredients won’t damage tanning beds
- Tattoo protectant
- Paraben-free
- No animal testing
- Some users complain that the bronzer is not as effective as they expected
4. Sun Bum Moisturizing Browning Lotion
- NATURAL BROWNING LOTION. This premium natural browning lotion is our secret weapon that gets us a fast, deep tan without having to spend long hours in the sun! We developed this lotion to accelerate the sun triggered tanning process in our skin.
- MOISTURIZING DARKENING LOTION. Our water resistant and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant tanning lotion is great for all skin types. Delight your skin with Aloe Vera, Kona Coffee Plant Extract, Marula, Argan, Coconut and Avocado Oil with a tropical coffee scent.
- HOW TO USE. First apply sunscreen, wait ten minutes, and then lather your bod in our browning lotion. Lounge in the sun and reapply as needed. Sonny’s Tip: Our brown tint can stain, so allow the lotion to soak in before laying on a white towel!
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to practicing safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Original Sunscreen line is Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
Last update on 2023-05-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sun Bum’s Moisturizing Browning Lotion is another great choice for a sun tanning lotion. It’s hypoallergenic and vegan, and is formulated with a variety of moisturizing ingredients that won’t clog pores. Here are just a few of them:
- Certified organic coconut oil
- Argan Oil
- Kukui Nut Oil
- Marula oil
- Avocado oil
- Aloe Vera
- Green Tea Butter
- Kona Coffee Plant Extract
These ingredients work to moisturize and tan skin without irritating it, and are also paraben-free, gluten-free, and cruelty-free. All that, and with a yummy chocolate smell!
Some things to keep in mind are that this product can be a bit messy and get on towels and swimsuits. It is also non-waterproof so shouldn’t be used for water sports or if you are prone to heavy sweating unless you are ready to re-apply frequently. It also doesn’t contain any SPF protection so it should be used on top of sunscreen if you do not have a strong base tan.
Another downside is that some users have also complained about packaging issues and say the product is prone to spillage.
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Paraben-free, gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Won’t clog pores
- Packaging issues
- Can be messy and get on towels and swimsuits
- Non-waterproof
5. Sky Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil
- WHY WE LOVE IT: Sky Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil is a very lightweight and super absorbent oil that effortlessly conditions, softens and smooths skin.
- FOR SOFTER SKIN: Sky Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil is a multipurpose oil that sinks into skin to lock in moisture without clogging pores.
- ABSORBING & LIGHTWEIGHT: Sky Organics pure Fractionated Coconut Oil has been stripped of its long-chain fatty acids to help it stay in its liquid form and easily absorb into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
- FOR BEST RESULTS: Massage Sky Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil into damp or dry skin, as a carrier oil for essential oils or as a massage oil. Re-apply as needed.
- GOOD FOR YOU, GOOD FOR THE PLANET: Sky Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil is 100% pure, 100% vegan and cruelty-free and responsibly made in small batches with the highest quality ingredients.
Last update on 2023-05-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our last product is a little bit different, for those who may be interested in an all-natural alternative. Coconut oil is a gift from the Earth – it is incredibly multi-functional and can be used for a variety of different things, including as a tanning oil!
OK maybe you’re a bit skeptical; coconut oil, to tan? Well here are some reasons why coconut oil is great for tanning. Among a variety of factors, it is:
- Super-hydrating; it reduces peeling and dryness
- Chemical-free
- Non-staining
- Nutritive; medium-chain fatty acids (capric, caprylic, and lauric) nourish and protect skin by creating a protective layer to shield it from sun damage and UV radiation.
- Helpful for helping to absorb natural vitamin D
- A shield against infections that can be attained in public places
- Soothing for irritation
This product by Sky Organics is an excellent option to try out tanning with coconut oil. It is 100% pure and natural fractionated coconut oil, which means it is a fraction of a coconut oil where long-chain fatty acids are removed and mainly the medium-chain fatty acids remain. This makes it a liquid oil that is odorless, clear, and non-greasy.
SimplySunSafe loves it because after tanning, you can keep using it for your hair as a conditioner, as a massage oil, as an antiseptic, or as a general skin moisturizer, among other uses.
To use it for tanning, scoop a tablespoon of the oil before tanning and spread it on your body. If you do not have a good base tan, put on some sunscreen first to protect from UV radiation. If you go swimming, make sure to reapply more after about 30 minutes. And, finally, enjoy the beautiful dark tan that you get as a result!
Some problems with the product include their pumps, which some users complain about for not working well, and that it may cause sensitivities in those with very oily skin.
- All-natural
- Multi-purpose uses
- Scent-free
- Paraben-free
- Non-staining tanning oil
- Some users complain about pumps that do not work very well
- Those with very oily skin may find the product too oily for their skin.
Conclusion
I wrote this guide for people searching for the best product for tanning in the sun. I hope you have learned a bit about the different tanning lotion options on the market by reading this article, and that you are now ready to make a decision on which is the best sun tanning lotion for your needs!
While all listed products are great for different purposes, SimplySunSafe recommends Maui Babe Browning Lotion as the overall best sun lotion for tanning thanks to its natural ingredients, and due to the fact that it is paraben-free, and soy- and gluten-free as well. I also love it because it comes in both an indoor and outdoor formula so that you can choose which is best based on your needs.
Our other recommended options, however, offer a variety of other benefits.
- Hawaiian Tropic’s Dark Tanning Oil is a classic that ensures a deep, dark tan in the sun while protecting the ocean’s reefs.
- Sun Godz’ Artemis/Apollo lotion is one of the best options out there for indoor tanning, and also contains bronzer and will protect tattoos.
- Sun Bum’s Browning Lotion is a vegan option that contains many natural ingredients that are hypoallergenic.
- And finally, Sky Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil is an all-natural alternative for those looking to try something a bit different.
I love learning about other great products out there and to hear about your experiences with the ones listed so if you have any comments or recommendations, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
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