Tanning lotions enhance the tanning process when using indoor tanning beds or booths.
They contain active ingredients such as Tyrosine that stimulate Melanin Production in the skin, resulting in a faster, darker, and more even tan.
Tanning lotions can be used by both experienced tanners and newbies who want to explore self-tanning.
They are designed to work with UV rays to stimulate melanin production in the skin.
Types of Indoor Tanning Lotions
Tanning Accelerators: Tan Accelerators contain active ingredients that promote microcirculation and increase blood flow to the skin cells. They are available in multiple variations, such as lotions, gels, and oils, and can be used for indoor tanning or outdoor tanning.
Bronzing Lotion: Bronzing lotions, also known as Bronzers, contain Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) a chemical that changes skin cells. This chemical gives an instant darker tan and can continue to darken for hours after application.
How Bronzers work depends on what Bronzer you use. Natural Bronzers will give you an instant glow and can wash off easily, whereas DHA Bronzers develop during and after your tan session for a more intense bronzed tan.
Tingle Creams: Tingle creams create an intense sensation on the skin, stimulating blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin cells. They also create a warming, tingling sensation on the skin's surface, which can be quite uncomfortable but calms down after 1-2 hours.
Tingle creams are only recommended for experienced tanners who want to further push their natural base tan. They should only be used for indoor tanning on indoor tanning beds and not for sun exposure.
Tan Extenders: Tan Extenders are designed as an after-tanning lotion to lock in and prolong your tanned result. They contain natural ingredients that nourish and hydrate the skin after tanning.
Moisturising Cooling Lotions: These lotions are designed to create a refreshing and soothing sensation for tanners after their tanning session. Cooling lotions contain cooling agents similar to menthol, which is a cooling sensation as opposed to a Tingle lotion. They are beneficial to the skin, preventing dryness and peeling.
How Tanning Lotion Works
Indoor tanning lotions work by enhancing the natural process of skin tanning. They stimulate Melanin Production in the skin, which gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.
Tanning lotions are designed to get a deeper tan easily and quickly.
They are designed to work with UV light to stimulate Melanin Production in the skin. Tanning lotions provide hydration to the skin, allowing the UV rays to absorb into the skin deeper. When the skin is dry, UV Rays bounce off it and slow down the tanning process.
Benefits of Using Tanning Lotions
Tanning lotions have multiple benefits, including helping each tanner achieve their desired tanned results.
Tanning lotions contain ingredients such as Argan Oil and Shea Butter, which moisturise and nourish the skin and leave it feeling silky soft.
Tanning lotions help the user achieve a healthy, golden-brown tone for the skin and enhance your overall tanning experience.
Using a tanning lotion can boost your tanning result by an impressive 60%! This speeds up the natural tan process without long periods of UV exposure.
Choosing the Right Tanning Product
When choosing the right indoor tanning lotions, it is essential to consider the following:
Choose a lotion that suits your skin type, whether dry or oily.
If you have dry skin, opt for a tanning lotion that contains nourishing ingredients and natural oils such as Coconut Oil or Argan Oil.
If you are prone to sensitive skin, opt for a Hypoallergenic tanning lotion such as the Hempz Hypoallergenic Dark Tan Maximiser that is fragrance, nut, and gluten-free to reduce the risks of irritation to the skin. 
Gels, sprays, and lightweight lotions are ideal for people who have more oily skin, whereas creams are designed for drier skin types.
Consider your tanning goals and choose products that meet those needs. If you want to achieve a tan fast, consider an Accelerating cream, or if you want a deeper dark tan immediately, choose lotions such as Natural Bronzers.
Look for an indoor tanning lotion with natural ingredients that is more beneficial to the skin and ensures it is nourished and hydrated.
Follow the manufacturer's usage guidelines and instructions for application.
Safety Precautions and Considerations
- Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and application.
- Be aware of any potential allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain ingredients.
- Use tanning lotions in moderation and as directed.
- Avoid using tanning lotions on sensitive skin or areas with broken skin.
- Only use a tingle cream when you are an experienced tanner and have built a base tan.
Tips for Achieving the Best Results
To achieve the best results from tanning, prepare the skin by exfoliating at least 24 hours before tanning to remove dead skin cells. Eliminating dead cells before applying a tanning lotion will create a smooth base and allow the UV Rays to penetrate deeper into the skin.
Apply your chosen lotion evenly and generously to the skin before using a tanning bed for an evenly tanned result all over. Gradually increase your tanning session alongside your chosen lotion to avoid streaks or overly dark regions.
Re-apply lotions as and when needed to maintain a consistent tan and keep the skin hydrated as much as possible.
Conclusion
Indoor tanning lotions are a great way to enhance your tanning experience of a tanning bed and help you achieve your ideal tan.
Choose suitable tanning products that can be used in the sun or for indoor tanning. Consider your skin type and how it reacts to the natural sun when tanning.
By choosing the right product and following the manufacturer's instructions, you can safely and quickly achieve a healthy sun-kissed glow for your skin.
Prepare the skin before tanning and follow with after-care products such as Tan Extenders for a longer-lasting colour.
Always follow safety precautions and consider your skin type and the tan you desire when choosing a product.
