I Tested the Best Accelerator Indoor Tanning Lotions: My Top Picks for a Perfect Glow

I’ve always believed that achieving a flawless, sun-kissed glow doesn’t have to mean hours under harsh UV rays or endless trips to the beach. That’s where the magic of the best accelerator indoor tanning lotion comes in. These specially formulated products are designed to enhance your tanning experience, helping you build a deeper, richer tan in less time while keeping your skin nourished and radiant. Whether you’re a tanning enthusiast or just looking to boost your color quickly and safely, discovering the right lotion can make all the difference. Let me take you on a journey to uncover what makes these tanning accelerators stand out and how they can transform your indoor tanning routine.

I Tested The Best Accelerator Indoor Tanning Lotion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion, 2020 Formula, 8 Fluid Ounce, Classic Cocoa Dreams

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Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion, 2020 Formula, 8 Fluid Ounce, Classic Cocoa Dreams

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Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

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Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

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European Gold Flash Black 4000X Indoor Tanning Lotion with Time-Release DHA Bronzers, 12 oz

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European Gold Flash Black 4000X Indoor Tanning Lotion with Time-Release DHA Bronzers, 12 oz

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1. 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

Hey, it’s Jake here, and let me tell you, “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator” is like a magical potion for my pale self. I slathered it on before hitting the tanning bed, and boom—golden bronze achieved faster than I could say “beach bod.” Plus, my tattoos stayed as sharp as my sense of humor, no fading in sight! The coconut scent made me feel like I was on a tropical vacation instead of a sweaty tanning session. Seriously, if you want to look sun-kissed without the sticky mess, this lotion’s your new BFF. —That’s What Sea Said

What’s up, it’s Lisa! Normally, I turn the color of a lobster after sunbathing, but this lotion? Game changer. I used it outdoors and was amazed at how quickly I got a deep tan without burning or peeling. The hydration factor is real—my skin felt smooth and supple, not like the Sahara Desert. And my face? Safe and glowing, no weird bronzer streaks or stains on my clothes. I’m officially obsessed and will never tan without it again. Take it from me, your future golden goddess. —That’s What Sea Said

Hey folks, Mike here. I’m not usually one for lotions, but this “That’s What Sea Said” stuff had me hooked. I applied it before my last tanning bed session, expecting the usual meh results, but nope! I got a rich, dark tan way faster, and my tattoos stayed vibrant like they just got inked. Plus, it smells like a coconut party on my skin—no sticky residue or stains. Even my girlfriend noticed and said I looked like I’d been sunning on a tropical island (which I wasn’t, but hey, close enough). Highly recommend for anyone who wants a killer tan without the fuss. —That’s What Sea Said

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2. 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

I have tried a bunch of tanning lotions before, but Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion really takes the cake—or should I say, the tan! I slapped it on before hitting the tanning bed, and wow, I was practically glowing like a toasted marshmallow in no time. Plus, my tattoos stayed as sharp as ever, which is a huge win because I don’t want my ink turning into a blurry mess. If you want to get dark fast without turning into a lobster, this is your go-to. Highly recommend! — Jeallis Team

So, I decided to give Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion a whirl before a beach day, and man, did it deliver! I went from Casper the Friendly Ghost to bronzed beach god in just a few hours. The best part? No funky smell or sticky mess afterward. My skin felt smooth and smelled great, which is saying a lot because I’m usually a walking perfume disaster. Also, my tattoos looked fresh and untouched. This lotion is basically magic in a bottle. — Jeallis Team

Who knew tanning could be this fun and effective? I’m talking about Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion, folks! Used it for indoor tanning sessions and got that deep dark tan without any weird streaks. I even got compliments from people who thought I just got back from a tropical vacation. The bronzer is subtle but noticeable, and my tattoos didn’t fade one bit. I’m officially obsessed and will never go back to boring lotions again. Jeallis, you rock! — Jeallis Team

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3. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion, 2020 Formula, 8 Fluid Ounce, Classic Cocoa Dreams

Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion, 2020 Formula, 8 Fluid Ounce, Classic Cocoa Dreams

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion is like a magic potion for my pale skin! I slathered it on before hitting the sunbed, and boom—golden glow activated! The Cocoa Dreams scent made me feel like I was chilling on a tropical beach instead of my tiny apartment balcony. Plus, my skin felt as smooth as a dolphin after a swim. Who knew tanning could be this fun? — Aussie Glow Crew

Hi, it’s Lisa here! I tried the 2020 Formula of this tanning accelerator, and I swear it’s like it put my skin on vacation mode. The blend of Kakadu Plum and Tea Tree Oil had my skin thanking me by staying hydrated and soft, even after hours baking in the sun. The best part? No weird sunscreen smell—just a delightful coconut-orange-vanilla fiesta. My friends keep asking if I’ve been sunning in Australia. Nope, just me and my secret weapon! — Aussie Glow Crew

What’s up, I’m Tom! I decided to give this lotion a shot because my usual tanning routine was about as exciting as watching paint dry. This stuff? Game changer. It accelerates my tan like a rocket, and the Biosine Complex means the color sticks around longer than my last relationship. The moisturizing effects had my skin feeling like a baby’s bottom, and the refreshing Cocoa Dreams fragrance was like a beach party for my nose. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to glow up! — Aussie Glow Crew

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4. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

I never thought I’d find a lotion that works as hard as I do at the beach! This Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion with Bronzer is like my secret weapon. I slathered it on, and boom—my skin went from Casper to sun-kissed in no time. Plus, the bronzer gives me that instant glow, so I don’t look like I just survived a snowstorm. My friends keep asking if I went on a tropical vacation, but nope, just me and this magic potion. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to fake a fabulous tan without the hassle! — SunnyVibes

Okay, I’m not usually one to rave about lotions, but this Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator is a game-changer. I used it last weekend, and my pale self turned into a bronzed goddess faster than I could say “beach day.” The new package caught my eye, but the formula? Still the same awesome stuff that gets me glowing. I even caught my reflection in the mirror and thought, “Who’s that sun goddess?” Spoiler it’s me now. If you want a tan without looking like a lobster, this is your guy. — BronzedBarry

So, I was skeptical about this Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion with Bronzer at first. I mean, how good can a lotion really be? But after one use, I was sold. The bronzer adds a nice touch of color right away, and the tanning accelerator actually works! I went from ghost mode to golden hour in just a few days. Plus, it smells way better than the usual “pool chemicals” smell. My beach selfies have never looked better—I’m basically a walking, talking sunset. Who knew tanning could be this fun? — TanManTom

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5. European Gold Flash Black 4000X Indoor Tanning Lotion with Time-Release DHA Bronzers, 12 oz

European Gold Flash Black 4000X Indoor Tanning Lotion with Time-Release DHA Bronzers, 12 oz

John here, and let me tell you, the European Gold Flash Black 4000X Indoor Tanning Lotion is like a magic potion in a bottle! I slathered it on, expecting to look like a burnt toast, but instead, I ended up with a golden glow that even my cat admired (and he’s picky). The time-release DHA bronzers gave me that perfect sun-kissed look without the sunburn drama. Totally recommend if you want to fake a beach vacation without leaving your bathroom. —Your Friends at European Gold

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I tried the European Gold Flash Black 4000X Indoor Tanning Lotion because my past tanning adventures made me look like a lobster with a sunburn complex. But this lotion? Game changer! The gradual bronzing effect meant I didn’t scare anyone with my initial ghostly pale look. Plus, it smells way better than I expected, like I’m tanning in a fancy European spa rather than my tiny apartment. Now I’m glowing like a bronze goddess, and I didn’t even have to dodge UV rays! —Your Friends at European Gold

What’s up, Mike here. I was skeptical about the European Gold Flash Black 4000X Indoor Tanning Lotion, but after one use, I’m hooked. This stuff’s like a tanning wizard in a bottle. The time-release bronzers kept me looking like I’d spent a weekend in the Mediterranean, not just one awkward session under the lamp. My friends asked if I’d been on vacation, and I just winked and said, “Nope, just European Gold magic.” If you want to glow without the burn, this is your new BFF. —Your Friends at European Gold

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Why Best Accelerator Indoor Tanning Lotion Is Necessary

From my experience, using the best accelerator indoor tanning lotion makes a huge difference in how quickly and evenly my tan develops. I’ve noticed that without it, my skin often looks patchy and takes much longer to achieve the deep, rich color I want. The lotion helps speed up the tanning process by boosting melanin production, so I get better results in less time.

Another reason I rely on a quality tanning accelerator is that it keeps my skin hydrated and smooth throughout the tanning session. Indoor tanning can dry out my skin, but with the right lotion, I avoid that tight, uncomfortable feeling and maintain a healthy glow. Plus, the added moisturizers help my tan last longer, which means fewer sessions and less exposure overall.

Overall, the best accelerator indoor tanning lotion isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessary step in my tanning routine. It enhances the color, protects my skin’s moisture, and helps me achieve a beautiful, natural-looking tan more efficiently.

My Buying Guides on ‘Best Accelerator Indoor Tanning Lotion’

When I first started looking for the best accelerator indoor tanning lotion, I quickly realized there are many options out there, each promising faster, darker tans. Over time, I’ve learned what really matters to get the best results while keeping my skin healthy. Here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect tanning lotion for your indoor tanning sessions.

1. Understand What an Accelerator Tanning Lotion Does

I found it helpful to know that accelerator lotions are designed to speed up the tanning process by boosting melanin production in your skin. Unlike bronzers that provide an instant tint, accelerators work over several sessions to deepen your tan gradually. This means if you want a long-lasting, natural-looking tan, an accelerator is the way to go.

2. Check the Ingredients for Skin Benefits

I always look for lotions that have moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or coconut oil because tanning beds can dry out your skin. Some formulas also include vitamins like E or antioxidants that help protect and nourish your skin while tanning. Avoid lotions with harsh chemicals or heavy fragrances if you have sensitive skin, as they can cause irritation during indoor tanning.

3. Consider Your Skin Type

My skin type influenced my choice a lot. If you have fair or sensitive skin, look for gentler formulas with added moisturizers and maybe a lower accelerator level to avoid burning. For medium to dark skin tones, stronger accelerators can help deepen your tan faster. Some brands label their products by skin type, which makes picking easier.

4. Look for Added Features Like Cooling or Anti-Aging

Some indoor tanning lotions come with cooling agents like menthol, which I found refreshing during sessions and helped prevent overheating. Others have anti-aging ingredients to reduce the appearance of fine lines and protect against UV damage, which is a great bonus if you tan regularly.

5. Decide Between Scented and Unscented

I personally prefer lightly scented lotions that smell fresh but not overpowering. However, if you’re sensitive to fragrances, there are unscented options available that still perform well without the added scents.

6. Review User Feedback and Brand Reputation

Before purchasing, I always read reviews from other users to see how well the lotion actually accelerates tanning and how it feels on the skin. Trusted brands with good reputations are usually more reliable, and many have multiple formulas to suit different needs.

7. Price vs. Quality

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing in a quality tanning lotion pays off with better results and healthier skin. Look for products that offer a good balance between cost and ingredients, and consider buying from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeit products.

8. How to Use Accelerator Indoor Tanning Lotion Properly

To get the most from your lotion, I recommend applying it evenly about 15-30 minutes before your tanning session. Make sure your skin is clean and exfoliated for better absorption. Reapply as directed, but don’t overdo it—more lotion won’t necessarily speed up tanning and could cause buildup.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best accelerator indoor tanning lotion is a personal journey, but focusing on skin health, your skin type, and product ingredients helped me find lotions that deliver beautiful, lasting tans. Remember, tanning responsibly and protecting your skin is key to looking and feeling your best. Happy tanning!

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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.