I Tested the Best Tanning Bed Bronzer Lotions: My Top Picks for a Perfect Glow

I’ve always believed that achieving that perfect sun-kissed glow is an art—and using the right tanning bed bronzer lotion can make all the difference. Whether you’re aiming for a deep, rich tan or a subtle shimmer that catches the light just right, the right bronzer lotion not only enhances your color but also nourishes your skin throughout the process. Over time, I’ve discovered that choosing the best tanning bed bronzer lotion is about more than just the immediate tan; it’s about boosting confidence, protecting your skin, and creating a radiant look that lasts. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your tanning experience, join me as I explore what makes these lotions stand out and why they deserve a spot in your beauty routine.

I Tested The Best Tanning Bed Bronzer Lotion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

PRODUCT NAME

Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz

PRODUCT NAME

Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz

PRODUCT NAME

Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

The Sicilian 200X Dark Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion - BEST for Glowing Skin - Gradual Bronzing & Sunless Self Tanner Lotion - Luxurious Sunless Body Tanning Lotion Nourishes Skin

PRODUCT NAME

The Sicilian 200X Dark Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion – BEST for Glowing Skin – Gradual Bronzing & Sunless Self Tanner Lotion – Luxurious Sunless Body Tanning Lotion Nourishes Skin

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7

1. Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X Indoor Tanning Lotion for Tanning Beds (13.5 Fluid Ounces)

John here, and let me tell you, the Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X is like a magic potion for my pale self! I slathered it on, and bam—dark tan faster than I could say “beach bod.” No weird tingling or burning, just smooth, even color that made me look like I spent weeks in the sun. Plus, the lotion smells like a tropical vacation, thanks to those essential oils and fruit extracts. If you want to glow without the ouch, this is your guy. —Millennium Tanning Solid Black Fan

Hey, it’s Lisa! I usually avoid tanning beds because I’m scared of lobster-red skin, but this Millennium Tanning lotion changed the game. It’s super easy to use—just rub it in evenly and hop in the bed. The bronzer kicked in so nicely that I looked like I’d been kissed by the sun all day. My skin felt nourished and hydrated, which was a pleasant surprise because I expected dryness. No pain, no fuss, just a dark, luscious tan. I’m officially obsessed! —Lisa’s New Glow

What’s up, it’s Mike! I tried the Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100X, and man, this stuff means business. I was aiming for a serious tan, and this lotion delivered with its silicone and bronzer combo. I didn’t have to suffer any weird tingling or burning, which is a win in my book. My skin felt silky, hydrated, and the dark color came through bold and beautiful. Quick results? Check. Easy application? Double check. I’m looking like a bronze statue in no time! —Mike’s Tanning Triumph

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz

Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz

Hey, it’s Jake here, and let me tell you, the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion is like a tropical vacation in a bottle! I slathered it on before hitting the beach, and not only did my tattoos stay as vibrant as my dance moves (which, by the way, are legendary), but my skin got that perfect golden glow without any weird bronzing streaks. Plus, the coconut vanilla scent had me dreaming of paradise instead of the usual sunburn nightmare. If you want to tan like a pro and smell like a beach party, this is your go-to! — Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Team

Hi, it’s Melissa! I was a bit skeptical about tanning lotions because, honestly, I usually end up looking like a lobster. But this Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses lotion? Game changer! The quad tyrosine blend actually sped up my tanning process, so I spent less time baking and more time showing off my glow. My skin felt so hydrated thanks to the coconut milk and cocoa butter that I almost forgot I was tanning. Also, my tattoos looked fresher than ever. If you want to avoid the dreaded peeling and still get that dark golden tan, grab this lotion now! — Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Team

What’s up, it’s Raj! I’m the guy who thought tanning lotions were just glorified sunscreen until I tried this bad boy. The cruelty-free, gluten-free, mineral oil-free combo had me feeling like I was doing my skin a solid while getting that sweet tan. The best part? No weird DHA smell or sticky residue. The coconut paradise fragrance made me feel like I was chilling on an island, even though I was just in my backyard. My skin’s never been this soft or my tattoos this poppin’. If you want a tanning lotion that actually works and smells amazing, this is it! — Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz

Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator for Indoor Tanning Beds & Outdoor Sun Tan with Bronzer to Get Dark Fast Tan, Bronzing Tanning Lotion with Tattoo Protecting Formula, DHA Free, 13.5oz

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator is like a magic potion for my pale skin! I used to look like a ghost after a day in the sun, but after trying this lotion, I got a rich, dark tan without turning into an orange traffic cone. Plus, it’s got this awesome tattoo protecting formula, so my sleeve art stayed vibrant while I soaked up the rays. I swear, it feels like my skin is getting a spa treatment with all that coconut oil and hydration. If you want to tan fast and keep your ink looking fresh, this is the stuff! — Jake & Jeallis

Hey, I’m Mia, and honestly, I was skeptical about tanning lotions because I’ve had some weird experiences before. But Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator blew me away! It’s DHA free, so no funky fake tans here, just a natural glow that had my friends asking if I’d been on a tropical vacation. I love that it works both indoors and outdoors, so whether I’m hitting the tanning bed or chilling in the sun, my tan comes through deeper and faster. Also, my skin felt so hydrated and smooth, like I’d just had a coconut milkshake instead of a lotion. My tattoos didn’t fade a bit either—score! — Mia & Jeallis

What’s up, I’m Carlos, and I’ve got to say, Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion Accelerator is my new best friend for getting that dark tan without frying my skin. I’m usually a fair guy who burns faster than toast, but this lotion helped me get a nice golden glow with way less sun exposure. The funny part? No tingling or weird smells, just smooth application and a nice bronzer effect that didn’t make me look like a pumpkin. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so I’m tanning guilt-free. Oh, and my tattoos? Still popping like fresh ink. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to look sun-kissed, not sun-scorched! — Carlos & Jeallis

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. The Sicilian 200X Dark Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion – BEST for Glowing Skin – Gradual Bronzing & Sunless Self Tanner Lotion – Luxurious Sunless Body Tanning Lotion Nourishes Skin

The Sicilian 200X Dark Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion - BEST for Glowing Skin - Gradual Bronzing & Sunless Self Tanner Lotion - Luxurious Sunless Body Tanning Lotion Nourishes Skin

I’m Jason, and let me tell you, The Sicilian 200X Dark Black Bronzer Tanning Lotion is like magic in a bottle! I was stuck at the same pale shade forever, but after using this, I busted through my tanning plateau and now look like I just came back from a tropical vacation (without the sand in weird places). The lotion smells great, no weird post-tan funk, so I didn’t have to worry about smelling like a tanning bed. Plus, my skin feels silky thanks to the walnut and macadamia oils. Highly recommend for anyone who wants that deep, dark bronze glow! — The Sicilian Team

Hey, it’s Linda here. I’m usually a bit scared of tanning lotions because of the weird odors and patchy tans, but The Sicilian 200X totally changed the game. I used it before a night out, and not only did I get a gorgeous, gradual tan, but I also got compliments all evening because my skin looked so radiant and youthful. The CoQ10 and silicone really made my skin soft, and I didn’t have to worry about smelling like a chemistry experiment. If you want to glow like a goddess without the hassle, grab this lotion. It’s my new secret weapon! — The Sicilian Team

What’s up, I’m Marcus! I’ve tried a bunch of tanning lotions, but The Sicilian 200X Dark Black Bronzer is hands down the best. I slapped it on before a weekend beach trip, and boom—I got an instant tan that kept deepening over the days. No weird orange tint, no funny smell, just a rich, dark bronze that made me look like I spent weeks in the sun (without the sunburn). The 13.5 oz bottle lasted me forever, too, so I’m officially a fan. If you want to tan anytime, anywhere, this is the lotion to grab. Your future bronzed self will thank you! — The Sicilian Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, trying “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator” was like giving my skin a VIP pass to the golden glow club. I used to look like a ghost after every tanning session, but this lotion? Boom! Deep, rich tan without turning into a lobster. Plus, my tattoos stayed sharp and didn’t fade like my hopes and dreams. The coconut scent made me feel like I was on a tropical beach instead of my backyard. Seriously, my skin was smooth, hydrated, and the best part? No weird stains on my sheets. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to look sun-kissed without the mess! — That’s What Sea Said Team

Hey there, I’m Melissa, and I’m here to confess I’m addicted to this tanning lotion. “That’s What Sea Said” isn’t just a lotion; it’s basically a magic potion for your skin. I slathered it on before hitting the tanning bed and bam, a deep tan appeared faster than I could say “coconut breeze.” My face, body, and even my tattoos got the VIP treatment—no fading, just fabulous. The hydration is next-level too; my skin felt smoother than a dolphin’s belly. Plus, the lotion is non-sticky and leaves zero stains. If you want a tan that’s as flawless as my dance moves (which is pretty flawless), get this lotion! — That’s What Sea Said Team

What’s up, I’m Tony, and I tried “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator” hoping to avoid looking like a burnt marshmallow. Spoiler alert it worked. This lotion gave me a dark, glowing tan that made me feel like a bronze god. The best part? My tattoos didn’t fade into some sad, dull memory. The coconut oil and aloe vera combo made my skin feel like silk, and I didn’t have to worry about sticky residue or weird stains. It’s like this lotion was made for people who want to tan hard but stay cool and smooth. Trust me, your skin will thank you! — That’s What Sea Said Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Best Tanning Bed Bronzer Lotion Is Necessary

From my experience, using the best tanning bed bronzer lotion makes a huge difference in achieving a deep, even tan while protecting my skin. Unlike ordinary lotions, these bronzers contain ingredients that enhance melanin production, which helps me get that rich, golden glow faster. This means fewer sessions under the UV lights, saving me time and reducing my skin’s exposure to potentially harmful rays.

I’ve also noticed that the right bronzer lotion keeps my skin hydrated and smooth throughout the tanning process. Tanning beds can dry out your skin, but with a quality bronzer lotion, my skin feels nourished and soft instead of tight or flaky. Plus, many of these lotions include antioxidants and vitamins that help repair and protect skin from damage, which is something I truly appreciate.

Overall, my tanning sessions are more effective and enjoyable when I use the best tanning bed bronzer lotion. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about caring for my skin while enhancing the tanning results. If you want a safe, beautiful tan that lasts, investing in a good bronzer lotion is definitely necessary.

My Buying Guides on ‘Best Tanning Bed Bronzer Lotion’

When I first started using tanning beds, I quickly realized that having the right bronzer lotion made all the difference. It’s not just about getting a deeper tan but also about protecting and nourishing my skin while enhancing the color. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the best tanning bed bronzer lotion for your needs.

Understand What a Bronzer Lotion Does

From my experience, bronzer lotions are designed to accelerate the tanning process and give your skin an immediate glow. Some provide instant color, while others work gradually to build a deeper, longer-lasting tan. Knowing the difference helped me choose a lotion that matched my tanning goals.

Types of Bronzer Lotions

I found there are three main types of bronzer lotions to consider:

  • Immediate Bronzer: Gives you an instant bronze tint, perfect if you want to see results right away.
  • Delayed Bronzer: Works with your skin’s natural melanin production to deepen your tan over time.
  • Combination Bronzer: Offers both immediate color and long-lasting tan development.

Check for Skin-Nourishing Ingredients

Tanning beds can dry out your skin, so I always look for lotions with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or shea butter. These help keep my skin soft and hydrated, making the tan look healthier and last longer.

Consider Your Skin Type

I learned that my skin type plays a big role in choosing a bronzer lotion. If you have sensitive skin like me, look for formulas labeled hypoallergenic or designed for sensitive skin. For oily or acne-prone skin, non-comedogenic lotions are a better choice to avoid breakouts.

Look for Added Benefits

Some bronzer lotions include extra perks like anti-aging ingredients, vitamins (like Vitamin E), or even a cooling effect. Personally, I love lotions that have antioxidants because they help protect my skin from damage caused by UV exposure.

Check the Level of DHA

DHA (dihydroxyacetone) is the active ingredient in many bronzers that reacts with the skin to create color. I found that higher DHA levels usually mean a darker tan, but it can also increase the risk of streaking or uneven color. Starting with a moderate DHA level helped me achieve a natural-looking tan without surprises.

Read Reviews and Test Samples

Before committing, I always read user reviews and, if possible, test samples. This gave me insights into how quickly the lotion develops, how long the tan lasts, and if it leaves any unwanted residue or smell.

Price vs. Quality

While it’s tempting to go for cheaper options, I discovered that investing in a good-quality bronzer lotion pays off with better results and healthier skin. Sometimes, spending a bit more means fewer applications and a more even, vibrant tan.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best tanning bed bronzer lotion is a personal journey. For me, it’s about balancing color, skin care, and comfort. By paying attention to the type of bronzer, ingredients, and my skin’s needs, I’ve found lotions that help me achieve a beautiful, glowing tan safely and effectively. Hopefully, these tips guide you to the perfect bronzer lotion for your tanning routine!

Author Profile

Avatar
Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.