Skip to main content

    Free UK delivery over £20Klarna & Clearpay available

    Back to News

    The Best Layering Tanning Accelerators for Achieving a Flawless Tan

    Jessie-Lee KingJessie-Lee KingSalon Manager & Tanning Expert

    5 min read

    The Best Layering Tanning Accelerators for Achieving a Flawless Tan

    What is a Tan Accelerator?

    Tan Accelerators are products designed to speed up the natural tanning process, helping to achieve a darker tan with less sun exposure.

    They come in various forms, including lotions, oils, and sprays, and can be applied before, during, or after sun exposure.

    Tan Accelerators enhance the body’s natural tanning process, stimulating melanin production to produce a natural-looking tan.

    They can be used to achieve a sun-kissed glow without prolonged sun exposure.

    This table highlights the key aspects of tan accelerators, including their purpose, benefits, and how they work.

    Aspect Details What Are They? Products designed to speed up the natural tanning process, often in lotions, oils, or sprays. How They Work Stimulate melanin production using active ingredients like Tyrosine while hydrating the skin. Key Benefits Achieve a darker tan faster, reduce sun exposure, and hydrate the skin for a smooth glow. Skin Protection Must be paired with sun cream to protect against harmful UV rays.

    How Tan Accelerators Work

    Tan Accelerators contain active ingredients that stimulate melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin colour. They work by increasing melanin production, resulting in a darker tan.

    Most Tan Accelerators also contain moisturising agents, such as Aloe Vera, to help hydrate and nourish the skin.

    Tan Accelerators can be used with sun cream to protect the skin from UV rays.

    Benefits of Tan Accelerators

    Benefits of Using Tan Accelerators This table lists the advantages of using tan accelerators for a faster and more even tan.

    Benefit Details Natural Tan Promotes melanin production for a streak-free, natural glow. Faster Results Speeds up the tanning process, requiring less sun exposure. Hydration Moisturising agents keep skin smooth and soft. Sun-Kissed Look

    Achieve a radiant glow without the need for fake tan.

    Safety and Precautions

    Using Tan Accelerators responsibly by following instructions carefully and ensuring a safe tan is essential.

    Tan Accelerators should be used with sun creams to protect the skin from harmful UV rays and prevent skin damage and cancers.

    Individuals with sensitive skin should choose a Tan Accelerator designed for sensitive skin. Choose a hypoallergenic Tan Accelerator to reduce the risks of any irritation.

    Exfoliate the skin before tanning sessions to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth base for the Tan Accelerator.

    Most tanning accelerators contain natural ingredients, such as aloe vera, to soothe and hydrate the skin.

    Select a Tan Accelerator that is the most suitable for your skin type and that will complement your skin tone. For example, fair skin should opt for accelerators over bronzers for a more natural tan.

    Choose a Tan Accelerator that is easy to apply and has a pleasant, not overpowering, scent. A staff favourite and best seller is the White 2 Bronze Pomegranate Tanning Lotion by Devoted Creations. This accelerator not only provides a dark tan, but it also smells incredible!

    Consider a Tan Accelerator like the 2bTanned Coconut SPF 6 Tan Accelerator, which contains sun cream to protect the skin from UV rays.

    Read reviews and do research before choosing a Tan Accelerator product.

    Pre-Tan Preparation

    This table outlines the steps for preparing your skin before tanning and maintaining your tan afterward.

    Step Details Pre-Tan: Exfoliate Remove dead skin cells for an even tan. Pre-Tan: Hydrate Apply a moisturiser to nourish the skin and prepare it for tanning. Post-Tan: Moisturise Use tan-extending moisturisers to prolong your tan and keep skin hydrated. Post-Tan: Protect Use SPF to shield your skin from UV rays after tanning.

    Prepare the skin by following these tips for the best results:

    • Exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells and encourage an even-looking tan.
    • Apply a moisturiser to hydrate and nourish the skin.
    • Choose a Tan Accelerator that is specifically designed for your skin type.
    • Follow the instructions carefully and apply the Tan Accelerator evenly.

    Post-Tan Care

    Once your desired tan has been achieved, prolong and maintain it with these post-tan care tips:

    • Apply a moisturiser to hydrate and nourish the skin after sun exposure. Opt for tan-extending moisturisers to prolong your tan.
    • Use a Tan Accelerator that contains sun cream to protect the skin from UV rays.
    • Avoid using harsh products that can strip the skin of its natural oils.
    • Consider using a Tan Accelerator that also contains anti-aging ingredients like Vitamin E.

    Tips for Achieving a Flawless Tan

    • Use a Tan Accelerator that is specifically designed for your skin type.
    • Exfoliate the skin before using a Tan Accelerator to remove dead skin cells.
    • Apply the Tan Accelerator evenly and follow the instructions carefully.
    • Use a Tan Accelerator that contains sun cream to protect the skin from UV rays.

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    This table lists typical errors and their solutions when using tan accelerators. Mistake Solution Skipping Exfoliation Exfoliate before tanning for an even, streak-free tan. Uneven Application Apply the accelerator evenly across all areas of the skin. Not Using SPF Pair with SPF to prevent UV damage and protect the skin. Using the Wrong Product Choose an accelerator suitable for your skin type and tone.

    • Not exfoliating the skin before using a Tan Accelerator.
    • Not applying the Tan Accelerator evenly.
    • Not using a Tan Accelerator that is specifically designed for your skin type.
    • Not following the instructions carefully.

    Recommended Tan Accelerator Products This table highlights top tan accelerator products and their unique features.

    Product Features Best For White 2 Bronze Pomegranate Lotion Dark tanning formula with a fruity scent. People seeking a deep tan with a pleasant aroma. 2bTanned Coconut SPF 6 Contains SPF for UV protection and moisturising benefits. Tanners needing extra sun protection. Supre Tan Go To Black Maximizer Speeds up tanning with Tyrosine and Carrot Oil. Advanced tanners seeking fast results.

    Conclusion

    Tan Accelerators can be a great way to achieve a flawless tan without prolonged sun exposure.

    By choosing the right Tanning Lotion and following the instructions carefully, you can achieve a natural-looking, lasting tan.

    Always use a Tan Accelerator responsibly and follow the safety precautions to avoid adverse effects.

    Jessie-Lee King

    Written by

    Jessie-Lee King

    Salon Manager & Tanning Expert

    Jessie-Lee is the Salon Manager at MEGATAN Studio Birmingham with over 8 years of experience in professional tanning. She specialises in helping clients find the perfect tanning routine, from selecting the right lotions to building safe, effective sunbed regimens. Jessie-Lee has trained with leading brands including Australian Gold, Devoted Creations, and Rapid Tan.

    • Sunbed Tanning
    • Tanning Lotions
    • Skin Care
    • Self-Tan Application
    • Salon Management

    Tanning Guides

    Learn about skin types, sunbed lotions, self-tan and aftercare with MEGATAN's expert guides and educational content.

    Browse our tanning guides →

    Product Education

    Understand the difference between accelerators, bronzers, intensifiers, and self-tanning products to build your perfect routine.

    Browse Tanning Glossary →

    Expert Advice

    Get personalised recommendations based on your skin type, experience level, and tanning goals with our AI-powered quiz.

    Take the Tan Quiz →