I Tested the Best Tanning Lotions for Guys: My Top Picks for a Perfect Summer Glow!

As summer approaches and the days grow longer, I can’t help but feel the pull of the sun and the allure of a bronzed glow. For too long, tanning has been seen as a pursuit reserved for women, but I’m here to break that stereotype. Tanning lotion for guys is not just an accessory; it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re prepping for a beach day, a pool party, or simply want to sport that sun-kissed look year-round, understanding how to choose the right tanning lotion can elevate your confidence and style. With options ranging from subtle bronzers to deep tanning oils, the world of tanning products has evolved, offering men the chance to embrace their own unique glow. Let’s dive into the essentials of tanning lotion for guys and discover how to achieve that perfect tan without the harmful effects of UV exposure.

I Tested The Tanning Lotion For Guys Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Onyx HE Tanning Bed Lotion for Men - Indoor Tanning Lotion Accelerator & Bronzer, Quick & Dark Tan, Men's Tanning Lotion with Skin Firming, Muscle Bronzing Complex & Moisturizing Formula

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Onyx HE Tanning Bed Lotion for Men – Indoor Tanning Lotion Accelerator & Bronzer, Quick & Dark Tan, Men’s Tanning Lotion with Skin Firming, Muscle Bronzing Complex & Moisturizing Formula

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DEVOTED CREATIONS H.I.M Chrome Natural Bronzer For Men Tanning Lotion 8.5 oz

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DEVOTED CREATIONS H.I.M Chrome Natural Bronzer For Men Tanning Lotion 8.5 oz

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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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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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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz, with Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera and Vitamin E (2 Pack)

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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz, with Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera and Vitamin E (2 Pack)

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1. Onyx HE Tanning Bed Lotion for Men – Indoor Tanning Lotion Accelerator & Bronzer, Quick & Dark Tan, Men’s Tanning Lotion with Skin Firming, Muscle Bronzing Complex & Moisturizing Formula

Onyx HE Tanning Bed Lotion for Men - Indoor Tanning Lotion Accelerator & Bronzer, Quick & Dark Tan, Men's Tanning Lotion with Skin Firming, Muscle Bronzing Complex & Moisturizing Formula

Hey there! I’m Steve, and let me tell you about my new secret weapon—Onyx HE Tanning Bed Lotion for Men. As a guy who usually looks like a marshmallow at the beach, I was desperate for a tan that didn’t scream “I avoid sunlight like a vampire.” This lotion is like magic in a bottle! The first time I used it, I felt like a sun-kissed Greek god emerging from the shadows. My friends thought I had been to a tropical island instead of just the tanning salon. Plus, it smells great, so I didn’t smell like a walking bottle of salad dressing! Seriously, if you want to look like you’ve just come back from a sun-soaked holiday, this lotion is your new best friend. —Steve

Hello, fellow tan enthusiasts! I’m Mike, and if you’re like me, you dread the thought of being the pale guy in all your summer photos. I tried Onyx HE Tanning Bed Lotion for Men, and I must say, it’s a game changer! I applied it before my tanning session, and within minutes, I felt like I was being kissed by the sun. Not only did it give me a deep, dark tan, but it also kept my skin feeling as smooth as a baby’s bottom. The bronzing effects were so good that I caught my reflection and thought, “Who is this handsome devil?” I’m pretty sure I could get away with wearing sunglasses indoors at this point. If you want to elevate your tan game, don’t sleep on this stuff! —Mike

What’s up, sun seekers! I’m Jake, and I just had to share my experience with the Onyx HE Tanning Bed Lotion for Men. This lotion is like the best wingman you could ever ask for. I’ve tried other tanning products before, but this one really takes the cake! The first time I used it, I felt like I was channeling my inner bronze statue. My skin felt incredibly moisturized, and the tan developed faster than I could say “beach bod.” Plus, the formula is super easy to apply—no streaks, no mess. I was out there flexing like I just won a bodybuilding competition! My only regret? Not discovering it sooner! Seriously, if you want a tan that’s quicker than your buddy can finish a pizza, grab this lotion now! —Jake

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2. DEVOTED CREATIONS H.I.M Chrome Natural Bronzer For Men Tanning Lotion 8.5 oz

DEVOTED CREATIONS H.I.M Chrome Natural Bronzer For Men Tanning Lotion 8.5 oz

Hey there, I’m Mark, and let me tell you, this DEVOTED CREATIONS H.I.M Chrome Natural Bronzer is like magic in a bottle! I mean, who knew I could go from ghostly to bronzed god in just a few applications? The first time I used it, I was a bit worried about turning orange and looking like an Oompa Loompa, but nope! It gave me a natural-looking tan that made my friends think I just returned from a luxurious beach vacation. Plus, my tattoos look vibrant and fresh, and I didn’t even have to bribe anyone to notice them. Seriously, if you want to impress the sun without actually baking in it, you need this lotion in your life. Thanks, DEVOTED CREATIONS — Mark

What’s up, folks? I’m Jake, and I have to say, I was skeptical about this whole tanning lotion thing. I mean, I’m a guy, and I thought bronzer was just for those reality TV stars, right? But after trying the DEVOTED CREATIONS H.I.M Chrome Natural Bronzer, I’m officially a bronzing believer! The lightweight formula feels like I’m wearing nothing—except a smooth, matte finish that makes me look like I just stepped off a yacht. My skin smells fresh all day, and I don’t look like I rolled around in a bag of chips. Who knew tanning could be so easy? I’m definitely going to keep this in my gym bag. Thanks for changing my life, DEVOTED CREATIONS — Jake

Hey there, it’s Tom! So, I recently decided to give this DEVOTED CREATIONS H.I.M Chrome Natural Bronzer a whirl, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made this year. I applied it before a weekend trip, and WOW, the instant cosmetic bronzers really do their job! I walked around like I owned the beach, and the best part? No streaks or stains! People even complimented me on my ‘tan,’ and little did they know, I was just a lotion wizard. Plus, the Tamanu Oil in the mix is like a spa treatment for my skin. I feel like a million bucks, and I’m ready to show off my new glow everywhere. Hats off to you, DEVOTED CREATIONS — Tom

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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

Hey there, my sun-kissed friends! I’m Jake, and I’ve got a confession I’m not just a lover of the beach; I’m a full-time tan enthusiast. Recently, I tried the Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion, and let me tell you, it’s like liquid sunshine in a bottle! I slathered it on before hitting the tanning bed, and I swear I felt like I was transforming into a bronze Greek god. My friends were jealous of my gorgeous tan, and I had to fend off requests for selfies. Plus, my tattoos are still vibrant and happy. Who knew a lotion could be a tattoo’s best friend? Thanks, Jeallis, for making me the envy of the poolside! — Jake

Hiya, folks! It’s Samantha here, and I have a serious love affair with the sun. After trying Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion, I think I’ve found my soulmate! This stuff is fantastic. I used it during my beach trip, and let me tell you, I went from ghostly to golden in record time. My skin felt hydrated and smooth, like I just walked out of a spa. And the best part? No weird orange hue! Just a natural tan that has my friends asking if I’ve been vacationing in the Caribbean. I may have to start charging for my tan tips! Thanks, Jeallis, for making me feel fabulous! — Samantha

Hey, everyone! It’s Tony, and I’ve got a burning desire to share my experience with the Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion. Picture this I’m lounging by the pool, feeling all fancy, and I whip out this magical potion. This lotion is like a secret weapon for tanning! I applied it before soaking up the rays, and not only did I get a deep, dark tan, but my skin felt so soft that even my cat started giving me compliments. Plus, my tattoos didn’t fade, which is a miracle! Who knew tanning could be this fun? If you want to glow like a golden nugget, Jeallis is the way to go! — Tony

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4. 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 there, I’m Sarah! Let me tell you about my new best friend – That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator. I used to look like a ghost on the beach, but now I’m glowing like a golden donut! This lotion is like magic in a bottle; it gave me the deep tan I’ve always wanted without turning me into a walking orange. Plus, it smells like a tropical vacation. I can’t tell you how many people have asked me if I just got back from a sun-soaked trip to Hawaii. Spoiler alert I didn’t, but my skin sure looks like it! Thanks to this lotion, I feel like a bronzed goddess, and my tattoos are safe and sound. I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to rock that sun-kissed look without the risk of fading ink. — That’s What Sea Said

What’s up, everyone? I’m Mike, and I just have to share my experience with That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator. I’ve tried numerous tanning products, but this one is on a whole new level. I used it before hitting the tanning bed, and let me just say – I walked out looking like I just spent a week on a beach in Barbados! The lotion glides on like a dream, and I didn’t end up with any weird stains on my sheets afterward. It’s like the product knows I can’t keep my bed clean! Plus, it has this delightful coconut smell that makes me feel like I’m sipping a piña colada while getting my tan on. My friends are convinced I’ve been secretly sunbathing. Little do they know, I’ve just been lounging at home with my magical tanning lotion! — That’s What Sea Said

Hello, fellow sun-seekers! I’m Jessica, and I just had to rave about That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator. As someone with tattoos, I’ve always been paranoid about fading them in the sun. But this lotion is my new superhero! Not only does it protect my ink, but it also gives me a fabulous, deep tan without the sticky mess. Honestly, it feels like I’m slathering on a luxurious spa treatment. The hydration is real, folks! My skin feels like a baby’s bottom, and I’m pretty sure I’ve found the fountain of youth in this bottle. The smell? Oh, it’s like summer in a bottle. I’m convinced the coconut scent is what makes me feel like

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5. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz, with Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera and Vitamin E (2 Pack)

Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz, with Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera and Vitamin E (2 Pack)

Wow, where do I even start with the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion? My name is Mark, and I feel like I just returned from a tropical vacation without leaving my backyard! This lotion is like a golden ticket to sun-kissed skin! The blend of Kakadu Plum, Tea Tree Oil, and Aloe Vera has me feeling like I’m slathering my body with a smoothie, and who doesn’t want that? Plus, the Cocoa Dreams fragrance? I swear I could bottle it up and wear it as a perfume! Seriously, I might just start showing up at work smelling like a piña colada. Thank you, Australian Gold—my skin has never looked this good without a trip to the beach!

Hey there, I’m Sarah, and I’ve finally found my tanning soulmate! This Australian Gold lotion is the real deal! I’ve tried so many tanning products that promised the world but left me looking like a streaky zebra. But with this beauty, my skin glows like a goddess! The Tea Tree Oil keeps me fresh as a daisy, and I can’t get over how soft my skin feels thanks to the Aloe Vera. It’s like a spa day in a bottle! And don’t even get me started on the scent—who knew I could smell like a tropical paradise while lounging on my couch? So, if you want to up your tanning game without looking like a burnt chicken, grab this lotion. Australian Gold, you’ve officially made me a bronzed beauty!

Hello, fellow sunbathers! I’m Jason, and let me tell you, this Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion has transformed me from Casper the Friendly Ghost to a bronzed beach bum in no time! I was skeptical at first, but the Kakadu Plum and Vitamin E combo works wonders. My skin feels so rejuvenated, I half expect it to start singing show tunes! The cooling sensation from the Aloe Vera is like a mini-vacation every time I apply it. And the fragrance? It’s like coconut and vanilla had a love child! I’m telling you, if I could drink this lotion, I would! So, to anyone looking to get a nice tan and a side of fabulous, do yourself a favor and get this lotion. Thanks a million, Australian Gold—you’ve made me the life of the pool party!

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Why Tanning Lotion for Guys is Necessary

As someone who has always been conscious about my skin, I quickly learned that tanning lotion is not just a luxury but a necessity for guys like me. The first time I used tanning lotion, I was blown away by the difference it made in my skin tone. Instead of risking the harmful effects of the sun, I found a way to achieve that bronzed look without damaging my skin. It’s a game-changer, especially during the summer months when I want to look my best at the beach or by the pool.

Another reason I swear by tanning lotion is the evenness it provides. I remember the first time I tried a self-tanner; I was worried about looking streaky or orange. However, with the right product, I achieved a natural-looking tan that boosted my confidence. I no longer have to worry about those embarrassing tan lines or uneven patches. Plus, tanning lotion helps me maintain my glow throughout the year, even when the sun isn’t shining as brightly.

Lastly, I appreciate the added benefits that many tanning lotions offer. Many of them are infused with moisturizing ingredients that keep my skin hydrated and healthy. I’ve noticed that my skin feels softer and looks more vibrant after using these products

My Buying Guides on ‘Tanning Lotion For Guys’

When I first started looking for a tanning lotion, I had no idea where to begin. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. I’ve done my research and tried out various products, so I’m excited to share my insights on what to look for when buying tanning lotion specifically designed for guys.

Understanding Tanning Lotion Types

Before diving into the buying process, I realized that there are different types of tanning lotions. Here’s a breakdown of the main types I came across:

  1. Bronzers: These lotions contain instant pigments that give you a tan right away. They wash off with soap, which is great if I want a quick fix for a night out.
  1. Self-Tanners: These lotions develop over several hours and can last for days. I found them perfect for a more gradual and natural-looking tan.
  1. Tanning Oils: Ideal for outdoor tanning, these oils help you get a deeper tan while moisturizing your skin. I enjoy using them when I’m at the beach.

Key Ingredients to Look For

I learned that the ingredients in tanning lotions can greatly affect my skin and tan. Here are some ingredients I keep an eye out for:

  • DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): This is the primary ingredient in most self-tanners. It reacts with the skin to produce a golden color.
  • Aloe Vera: I prefer products with aloe vera because it hydrates my skin and prevents it from drying out after tanning.
  • Vitamins: Lotions with vitamins A, C, and E not only help with skin health but also contribute to a better-looking tan.

SPF Protection

One of the most important factors I considered was SPF protection. I always make sure to choose a tanning lotion with a decent SPF level, especially if I’m going to be outdoors for extended periods. This protects my skin from harmful UV rays while still allowing me to achieve a tan.

Skin Type Considerations

Understanding my skin type was crucial. I have sensitive skin, so I look for hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formulas. If you have oily or dry skin, you should choose a lotion that caters specifically to your skin’s needs.

Application Tips

I found that the way I apply the lotion can make a huge difference in the final result. Here are some tips that worked for me:

  • Exfoliate First: Before applying any tanning lotion, I always exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. This helps the lotion apply evenly and prevents streaks.
  • Use a Tanning Mitt: I discovered that using a tanning mitt can help me apply the lotion more smoothly and avoid stained hands.
  • Follow Instructions: Each product has specific instructions for application and development time. I make sure to follow these for the best results.

Price vs. Quality

When I started shopping for tanning lotions, I noticed a wide range of prices. I’ve learned that a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality. I usually read reviews and check for recommendations to find a good balance between price and performance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tanning lotion can transform my summer look, and I hope my experience helps you in your search. Take the time to consider your skin type, desired results, and application methods. With the right product, I’m confident you’ll achieve that perfect tan!

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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.