Best Tanning Bed Lotion [Best Indoor Tanning Lotion Series]

This is a complete guide to getting the best tanning bed lotion for a golden bronzing (not orange). 

​​Read till the end because, in part 2, you can check our best tips for getting the perfect tanning bed experience you deserve. So, let’s get started!

Read Also: Do You Really Need Tanning Lotion For Tanning Bed?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, allowing me to get a commission if you buy a product recommended through the link at no extra cost to you.

1. Tan Asz U Luau Island Black Bronzer Review

The Luau bronzer is a cheap and yet very effective bed lotion. Many people have reported that this indoor tanning lotion is better than many high-end bed tanning lotions. 

It is a 200X Island Black Bronzing, which is very powerful and pretty much like our first-bed tanning lotion; you need to be careful while applying it to avoid orange spots.

After a few minutes in bed tanning, you can start to see your bikini mark. Some people related they got darker after 7 minutes (under the bed tanning). 

However, you should be careful when applying in sensitive areas such as your ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, etc.

 Applying less in these areas would be good because they might get tanner quicker than in other areas.

The best way to apply this lotion is to evenly spread it onto your skin very well until it absorbs it. 

Also, remember to wash your hands or wipe them with a towel or damp cloth because failing to do these things might result in undesired orange results.

Read Also: Can You Wear Sunscreen In A Tanning Bed?

How to apply it:

1. Apply this product evenly and spread/blend it onto the skin very well until you notice it is completely absorbed (aka. Skin doesn’t feel wet anymore)
2. Areas there are more sensitive, such as armpits, feet, hands and so on, are more susceptible to bronze quicker. Having this in mind, use less product in these areas.
3. Remember to take the product off your hands (you can wash your hands or take all the excess with a damp cloth). Otherwise, your fingers will end up being orange.

If you wonder if this bed lotion will stain your clothes, the answer is no. This product is highly recognized because of this. 

So don’t worry about having a tan on your clothes or your partner’s clothes while making out! Haha!

Another highlight about this product is that this is a highly hydrating lotion; the texture is not so liquid, nor not so creamy, slightly oily, very easy to spread, and the smell is lovely, and you can apply it your face without problems. 

Of course, if you have sensitive skin, it is always better to consult your dermatologist for any product you want to apply to your skin.

As I mentioned, the results are pretty quick and can be successfully seen in the first section. The result will be golden bronzing, or a darker bronzing, even after the shower, depending on your skin, and not orangey, or like I tend to say, carroty. 

Tan Asz U Luau Island Black Bronzer Q&A

Question 1: Is This product adequate for those with tattoos?

Answer: Yes, many people have used it and reported that it caused no negative impact on tattoos.

Question 2: Does it leave streaks on my skin?

Answer: No. But make sure that you apply it evenly, spread it well until the skin absorbs, and remember to wipe the excess off the hands.

Question 3: Can I use this bed tanning lotion outdoors as well?

Answer: Yes. It is evident on the bottle that it can be used both as an indoor and outdoor tanning lotion.

Question 4: Does it stain clothes, bedsheets, etc.?

Answer: No, you can use it and don’t worry about that

Highlights Summary

• It is a 200X Island Black Bronzing, which is very powerful
• A few minutes in a bed tanning and you can start to see your bikini mark
• it is also combined  with moisturizers which will provide you with extra hydration
• It doesn’t streak on the skin / It doesn’t strain on the clothes 
• Good for sensitive skin

2. Millennium Tanning Products: Dark Tanning Lotion Review

The silicon bronzer has auto-darkening tan technology and tan enhancer action. This is one of those lotions that work as promised by the brand and fast.

I would say it works faster than other indoor tanning lotions out there.

This 100X lotion is a robust bronzer development that will gradually enhance your natural tan and give you a fast tan after a few minutes. 

It is good news that this product will work as promised; it is also combined with moisturizers which will provide extra hydration to your skin while you are tanning. 

As soon as you open it, you will notice this looks like a tinted moisturizer.

One important consideration you need to pay attention to avoid frustrations is how to apply it correctly. 

Because if you don’t apply it properly,, you risk having streaking and orange spots on your skin and hands.

To avoid that here is how to apply the Millenium dark tanning (Recap):

1. Apply this product evenly and spread/blend it onto the skin very well until you notice it is completely absorbed (aka. Skin doesn’t feel wet anymore)
2. Areas there are more sensitive, such as armpits, feet, hands and so on, are more susceptible to bronze quicker. Having this in mind, use less product in these areas.
3. Remember to take the product off your hands (you can wash your hands or take all the excess with a damp cloth). Otherwise, your fingers will end up being orange.

As this is a powerful tan accelerator, you could use a level 3 bed for 15 minutes. 

Ask in the salon where you will have your tanning bed what the best level you should use for double-checking is.

This is one of the best tanning lotions, with a very advanced formula. If you are too white, it is better to use something milder such as the Paint it black 50X, until you develop a little more color to use because you risk being kind of orange.

Millennium Tanning Products: Dark Tanning Lotion Q&A

Question 1: Can this lotion be used as a self-tanner?

Answer: Some people have reported that this can also work as a self-tanner, as they noticed it worked. 

However, the results are milder, or depending on your skin, it is possible it won’t work as a self-tanner.  It will work for sure if you use it in a tanning bed lotion.

Question 2: Does it leave streaks on my skin?

Answer: No. But make sure that you apply it evenly, spread it well until the skin absorbs, and remember to wipe the excess off the hands.

Question 3: Can I use this bed tanning lotion outdoors as well?

Answer: I haven’t seen the producer saying this is qualified for outdoor tanning; however, many people have reported using it outdoors with excellent results.

If you ask my opinion, other lotions explicitly claim to be 2 in 1, which you can be sure to use outside. 

Question 4: Does it stain clothes, bedsheets, etc.?

Answer: No, you can use it and don’t worry about that

Question 5: How long does it take until the tan fades away?

Answer: Let’s suppose you have a fair complexion; it might take one and a half weeks to start seeing your tan fading away. 

Highlights Summary

Now, let’s do a little recap and give you a sum up with all the essential information about this bed lotion:

• This tanning bed lotion has a 100X bronzer
• will enhance your natural tan gradually
• Give quick results / dark tan
• it is also combined  with moisturizers which will provide you with extra hydration
• It doesn’t streak on the skin / It Doesn’t strain on the clothes 

Cons

• Be aware if you are too white, you might look for something lighter for a base than before using this one.

3. Fiesta Sun Coconut Dream Ultra Dark Tanning with Clear Bronzers Review

Time for the Fiesta Sun Coconut! Our next best tanning bed lotion is also a highly rated indoor tanning lotion that you should know about. 

It is very cheap and effective. It’s the most affordable we have talked about so far.

This is a lighter one (15X),  which is indicated for white ones. I also must say that most people admitted it to be one of the best indoor lotions out there.

It will help darken your skin, and the tanning will stay on for as long as seven days.

Another highlight of this tanning lotion is its combination of oils and vitamins helps your skin feel softer to the touch and look healthier. 

Plus, the smell is delightful, as most people that have used it are related; it is sophisticated and pleasant.

 If you are asking what else you can expect from this indoor bed tanning lotion, here’s a quick list:

• Even color, brown, golden tanning
• No orange streaks / Only the dark tan
• It works well for those with sensitive skin
• No burning redness on the skin
• A tremendous moisturizing texture for a soft skin
• Great smell
• Easy to spread
• It doesn’t transfer to the clothes

A few considerations about the cons of this lotion is that some people have stated it is a little greasy. 

But for the most part, most people seemed happy with the product’s texture.  In compensation, many people who turned out orange quickly reported being pleased with the final results, as they could achieve a lovely brown skin tone.

And as a rule of thumb, you should be aware of how to apply it. I think this is the rule for every bed lotion. Apply it evenly, spread well, and take care of your hands by taking the excess product. 

That way, you can achieve a dark tan. 

Fiesta Sun Coconut Dream Ultra Dark Tan with Clear Bronzers Q&A

Question 1: Can I use it on the face?

Answer: Yes, you can do it without problems.

Question 2: Can I use this bed tanning lotion outdoors as well?

Answer: You can use it outside, but this product was designed for indoor tanning beds.

Question 3:  Does it leave streaks on my skin?

Answer: No. But make sure that you apply it evenly, spread it well until the skin absorbs, and remember to wipe the excess off the hands.

Question 4: Does it stain clothes, bedsheets, etc.?

Answer: No, you can use it and don’t worry about that

4. Australian Gold, CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers Review

The Australian Gold is an indoor bed lotion that can also be used outdoors. It’s infused with native Australian oils, vitamin A and E, which will bronze and hydrate your skin simultaneously. 

Here we have one of the best tanning bed lotions options for the fair skin folks. 

The Australian Gold, CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers, is one of those Tanning Bed Lotions that goes on quickly and is easily absorbed by the skin. 

Depending on your skin, the type of bronze you will get is similar to caramel, but many people are pretty much satisfied with the caramel brown color.

The smell is pleasant; at least you won’t feel it too strong as it is very light. It is more like a delicate fruity essence and kind of coconut sweet. 

You can apply it right before your indoor session or 30 minutes before it. After 10 minutes under the tanning bed lotion, the results will show up without streaking, without becoming orange.

You will have quicker results than outside sunbathing if you use this tanning lotion on a tanning bed. 

You won’t feel it greasy on your skin, and also it won’t stain the clothes. Also, pay attention to how to apply it; remember to wash your hands after using it and apply well until the skin absorbs the product.

Australian Gold, CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers, Tanning Bed Lotion Q&A

Question 1: How long should I lay on the tanning bed lotion to have results?

Answer: Only 10 minutes, and you have your results.

Question 2: How long should I lay in the sun to have results?

Answer: Under the sun, it might take as long as 50 or 60 minutes for a golden tan

Question 3: Does this indoor tanning lotion offer any sort of anti-aging and skin protection?

Answer: Yes. It has anti-aging properties in it. It also contains vitamins A and E for enhancing skin nourishment.

Question 1: Does it leave streaks on my skin?

Answer: No. But make sure that you apply it evenly, spread it well until the skin absorbs, and remember to wipe the excess off the hands.

Question 2: Can I use this bed tanning lotion outdoors as well?

Answer: Yes. It is clear on the bottle that it can use both ways.

Question 3: Does it stain clothes, bedsheets, etc.?

Answer: No, you can use it and don’t worry about that

Highlights Summary

• This is an indoor bed lotion that can also be used outdoors
• It’s also anti-aging
• Has Vitamins A and E that hydrate your skin
• Quick tanning: Gives you a tan after 10 minutes in the tanning bed lotion
• No streaking
• No orange but instead a golden brown tan

5. The Sicilian 200X Double Dark Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion Review

In my opinion, the Sicilian 200X Double Dark Back Bronzer has a lot of value in just one bottle. 

It is a DHA-infused tanning bronzer that will act as a tan enhancer, but not only that; it has anti-aging properties, Co-Q10 stimulates collagen, skin firming formula that can be used for the indoor and outdoor tanning as well.

This is a highly effective tanning lotion that works. With high silicon for skin softening, you will also notice very hydrated skin, very soft to the touch on top of a golden bronzer, because it contains as well, Walnut and Macadamia nut oils. 

There is nothing worse than what I call the carrot bronze effect, that stains the clothes, right?  

If you are wondering if this product will leave your skin orange, you can relax, because it will leave you more of a type of caramel golden bronze as I have shared with you, and will not stain on the clothes, and dry fast.

As with any other tanning bed lotion that we talked about, you should apply it properly, otherwise, the results will not go well. 

Once again, spread it all over your body, apply a little less on sensitive areas, spread it until the skin absorbs, and wash your hands to avoid the weird brown color on your fingers. 

This is a very strong indoor tanning lotion, and probably one of the darkest out there, as many people who used it have related as well, and can give you an excellent color since the first use.

The Sicilian 200X Double Dark Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion Q&A

Question 1: Can this tanning lotion be applied to the face?

Answer: Yes this can be used on the face without problems

Question 2: Can I use it outdoors as well / Will this work in the sun?

Answer: Yes, this is both created for indoors and outdoors

Question 3: Does it bring any benefits to my skin? Is it anti-aging?

Answer: This is very hydration so you will feel your skin soft to the touch. It is also anti-aging and prevents fine lines.

Question 4: How long should I wait to shower after a tanning bed session using this lotion?

Answer: After one or two hours

Highlights Summary

• Sicilian 200X Double Dark Back Bronzer
• DHA infused tanning bronzer that will act as a tan enhancer
• It has anti-aging properties, Co-Q10 stimulates collagen, skin firming formula
• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• hydrate your skin
• No streaking
• No orange but instead a golden brown tan

6. Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor-Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion Review

Another great two-in-one tanning lotion. Yes, the Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor-Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion can also be used outside under the sun and is packed with many interesting claims.

First, it is also a moisturizer, containing Coconut & Walnut Oils and aloe vera extracts in its composition, which will guarantee hydration and softness while you are getting that sexy brown color. 

It is also anti-aging, containing Advanced Matrixyl Synthe 6, a peptide that reduces fine lines and provides long-lasting results.

This lotion has potent tanning intensifiers mixed with natural bronzing additives that help you achieve a golden/caramel color. 

Just 15 minutes on a level 3 tanning bed will be enough to give you the desired golden bronze. If you use it outdoors, it might take around 30 to 50 minutes (depending on how intense the sun is at the moment of use).

One downside of this bed lotion, however, is that you will probably need more than one session to achieve a darker color. 

Even though this is a very nice product that will give you an amazing final golden bronze, there are a few things you need to do to achieve the best from this product.

Things to do to get the most of Somewhere on a beach:

• Make sure to wash and exfoliate your body before applying this product
• If you want, do it at least 24 hours prior to your tanning section, to avoid skin irritation
• Make sure to wax or shave hairy areas for an improved tan

NOTE: These are actually good practices to adopt any time you are going to a tanning bed session, won’t harm, just help, so why not? 

Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor-Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion Q&A

Question 1: Will it leave me orange?

Answer: No, it will not leave you orange but you need to apply it properly, spreading it onto your skin (you can do a circular motion to that) until it is absorbed, and make sure to clean your hands immediately after application.

Question 2: Does it work for outdoor tanning?

Answer: Yes it does work for outdoor tanning as well. But people have reported preferring to use it indoors on a tanning bed.

Question 3: Can it be used as a self-tanning?

Answer: No. It can be used indoors with the use of a tanning bed and under the sun as well. But it is not a self-tanner.

Question 4: Can it be used on the face?

Answer: Yes you can apply it on your face as well, without problems

Highlights Summary

• Potent tanning intensifiers mixed with natural bronzing additives
• Helps you achieve a golden/caramel color
• Takes just 15 minutes on a tanning bed
• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• It is also a moisturizer and anti-aging (reduces fine lines)
• No streaking
• No orange but instead a golden brown tan

7. Black Chocolate Double Dark Coconut Cream 400X Review

If you are tired of trying a lot of different tanning lotions without getting any dark, there is still hope for you, with this tanning bed lotion. 

It has Black Chocolate & Argan extracts, potent antioxidants Quadruple Coconut Cocktail & Max Silicones on in its composition which will provide you a nourished skin while you get a very brow tan.

As this indoor tanning lotion doesn’t use DHA, it is a tanning accelerator that will help your skin develop and increase your body’s own melanin. 

Once in contact with your skin, it will act to enhance its own pigmentation.

You can use this tanning lotion indoors on a tanning bed, but you can use it outdoors as well, with no problems.

It will bring a nice feel to your skin because it is very moisturizing, and because it is a very lightweight formula, the application will be very smooth. 

Just be aware that it will take longer to give you a tan under the sun, than on a tanning bed. So, for quicker results, the tanning bed is still the option to go. 

You will have fast results from the first time you use it, in a short period of time. You could also be sure that it won’t streak if applied correctly. 

That’s the reason that I think it’s important to remind you all that time to apply it correctly ( spread evenly, very well until the skin absorbs the product) and clean your hands as soon as you finish the application to avoid hyperpigmentation on thingers. 

This is the first tanning bed lotion in this review that offers a Tattoo Enhancing Complex, so if you have tattoos, this is a great option for you as well. 

Black Chocolate Double Dark Coconut Cream 400X Q&A

Question 1: Will it leave me orange?

Answer: It should not leave you orange, but you need to apply it well. Make sure to apply it evenly, in circular motions, and of course, take the excess from your hands. These steps should be enough

Question 2: Does it work for outdoor tanning?

Answer: Yes. It is both an indoor and outdoor lotion. However, you should have quicker results by using it on the tanning bed. If you opt to use it outdoors, just make sure to use an SPF protection.

Question 3: Can it be used as self-tanning?

Answer: No it does not work as a self-tanner.

Question 4: Can it be used on the face?

Answer: Yes it can be used on your face without problems

Question 5: Does it have a tingle?

Answer: Not at all you can be tranquil that this won’t tangle

Highlights Summary

• It will provide you a nourished skin while you get a tan
• It is a tanning accelerator that will help your skin develop and increase your body’s own melanin.
• You can use this tanning lotion indoors on a tanning bed, but you can use it outdoors as well
•  it is very moisturizing
• No streaking
• No orange but instead a golden brown tan

Part 2: Tanning Bed Essential Guide For The Best Golden and dark tan

Now that we looked at some of the best tanning bed lotions, let’s continue our second part of our Best indoor tanning lotions series, with some useful information, so you can achieve the best tanning results, the safe way.

For this, take a look at our indoor tanning process guide, followed by frequently asked questions, I’m sure you have asked at least one of these questions.

Take a look a these Q&A about the tanning process. 

How Does A Tanning Bed Work?

In an ideal world, we all should be able to tan naturally, but we know that sometimes this is not possible for different reasons. 

One alternative you can use is to tan artificially and here comes atanning bed for the rescue.

For as much as this is a very handy solution, it is also good to know a little (at least) about how a tanning bed works, so you can take care of all the details to achieve the best experience possible.

A tanning bed will give you an artificial tan by simulating the ultraviolet ray (UV rays). Because UVB rays can be toxic, the solution that tanning bed fabricants found to fix it, was to create beds with filters to make them safer.

The UV rays formed by UV lamps, will accelerate (or enhance) the process of melanin production on your skin, giving you the tanning you are longing for. 

For this, you need to have high-quality tanning lotions.

Different types of Tanning Bed

Normally, for a natural-looking tan, it is used as a low or medium-pressure tanning bed but always check with a professional first.

For a long-lasting tan, it is known to use high-pressure tanning beds, which many people might argue that’s not the safest option. 

I would not go for these high-pressure tanning beds, because I like to be on the safe side. For me, the lower pressure would do the job.

There is also a vertical tanning bed, in which instead of laying down, you stand straight. 

Many professionals and users have reported that this type of tanning bed gives you a quick and more even than, because you won’t be against any surface.

Different salons have different types of tanning beds. 

Pay a visit and talk to the salon professional, because they should be able to personally guide you on the best type of tanning bed four skin and necessities.

How to prepare your skin for the tanning bed?

Here we’re gonna list a few steps you can take to prepare your skin to receive the best tanning bed results in your tanning process: 

1. For best results, try to get a bit of natural tanning if possible, to create a nice base
2. Always clean, exfoliate and moisturize your skin to get rid of dead cells. A fragrance-free moisturizer and a light neutral soap for skin
3. Protect your lips as well by applying an SPF lip balm, and using tanning lotions
4. Avoid harsh products, and beauty products with fragrances to avoid irritation
5. It’s advised to avoid makeup, deodorant, and perfumes before the tanning bed section, and avoid these for the next 24 hours after your tanning section
6. For better results, you can also apply your bed lotion one hour before your appointment
7. Remember, outdoors tanning lotions and oils are NOT welcome here, so DON’T use them for indoor bed tanning rituals
8. If you don’t know if your tanning lotion is tattoo-friendly, cover your tattoo for avoiding it to fade away eventually, overtime
9. Protect your eyes by using goggles 

How long does it take to get a tan in a tanning bed?

It will generally depend on the tanning bed type and pressure you use, as well as your skin type and complexion, but on average, it takes 10 to 15 minutes to get your tanning bed results.

After you finish your bed tanning session, wait 24 to 72 hours to really see the final results. If after that you are not happy, you will probably need to book another tanning bed appointment.

How many times do you have to tan in a tanning bed to get tan?

Some people might not achieve the desired results since the first application, so it is normal.

If that was the case, maybe one or two extra sections will be needed to achieve the desired results. 

Just experiment with different tanning bed lotions, and see which one works best for you. 

It is also possible to use a tanning extender, which might help you prolong the intervals between salon visits.

How many tanning bed sections can I have in a week?

To be on the safe side, people normally wait 36 to 48 hours to have another tanning bed session. You can go around 2 or 3 times per week, respecting the 36-to 48 hours interval if you have an emergency such as an event or so. If not, I would just wait one week before the next session (but it’s optional).

What do you wear in a tanning bed?

To protect more sensitive areas, use a bikini for the tanning bed sections 

Should you shower after tanning?

Wait around 3 to 4 hours before taking your shower

Extra Tips For A Great Tanning Bed Experience

Make sure to read every tip listed below for a safer and excellent tanning bed experience. If I forgot to list anything, please use the comment below to send it to us! 

• Check on more than one salon and see how clean they are
• Always check a doctor first to understand if your health and skin allow you to proceed with tanning bed
• Always use goggles to protect your eyes
• Always start slow, with a small dosage, and increase gradually
• Make sure to keep your skin hydrated before and after the process
• Prep your skin ( I have stated a few steps to help you prep your skin in this article)
• Apply less tanning lotions and accelerators on sensitive areas, such as armpits and so on

Best Indoor Tanning Lotion Series Responds: Tanning Bed Q&A 

In this section, we are going to answer a few frequent questions that people are asking on the internet. If you have more questions, please use the comment section below and send them so we can add them to this article.

Question 1: How long does a tanning bed last?

Answer: In general a tanning bed tan may take around 7 to 10 days. It may vary from person to person. Make sure to use tan extenders and exfoliate your skin before your appointment to prolong your tan.

Question 2: What is best: horizontal or vertical tanning bed?

Answer: Horizontal bed is undeniably much more comfortable than horizontal tanning beds. However, despite the discomfort of standing with separated arms and legs for 15 minutes, many professionals have stated that a vertical tanning bed might deliver better results than a horizontal tanning bed.

Question 3: Can I use regular lotion in a tanning bed

Answer: No. and you should only use the best tanning lotions, designed specifically for tanning bed sessions.

Question 4: can you use tanning bed lotion outside

Answer: Depending on the brand yes, because there are several tanning bed lotions and clearly state on the bottle that it can be used for both indoor and outdoor tanning.

Question 5: when to apply tanning bed lotion

Answer: For better results, 60 to 30 minutes prior to your appointment.

That’s it! If you have any questions and suggestions, please use the comment section below and give us a shout! If you like, take a look at these other tanning articles:

• Do You Need Tanning Lotion For Tanning Bed?
• Can You Wear Sunscreen In A Tanning Bed
• Can You Tan With Sunscreen?
• After Sun Skin Care Routine: After The Beach Guide
• Why Does Sunscreen Burn My Face & What To DO!
• Tanning Oil vs Sunscreen: Can I Use Them Together?
• Best Sunscreen For Tanning Under The Sun [Your tanning essential guide series]
• How Long Does It Take To Get A Tan [Your tanning essential guide series]