Ever wish you could get that perfect sun-kissed glow faster, without spending hours baking in the sun? We all want that healthy, radiant tan, but sometimes our skin just doesn’t cooperate. It can be frustrating when you’re trying to achieve a beautiful tan, only to end up with a patchy, uneven color or a frustratingly slow process.
Choosing the right outdoor tan accelerator can feel like a mission. So many products promise amazing results, but how do you know which one actually works? You might worry about what ingredients are in them, or if they’ll even be effective for your skin type. It’s a common struggle, and we get it.
But what if there was a way to make your tanning experience easier and more effective? In this post, we’ll dive into what makes outdoor tan accelerators tick. We’ll help you understand what to look for, what to avoid, and how to pick the best one for you. Get ready to discover how to achieve that gorgeous, natural-looking tan you’ve been dreaming of, safely and efficiently.
Top Outdoor Tan Accelerator Recommendations
No. 1
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion | Outdoor, 8.5 Fl Oz
- GIVE YOUR SKIN A NATURAL, BEAUTIFUL GOLDEN GLOW without applying any bronzers or skin darkening products. Australian Gold's Rapid Tanning Intensifying lotion speeds up the tanning process while you bask in the sun or use a tanning bed
- BE SUMMER READY - Formulated with Biosine Complex, a proprietary blend of premium ingredients, it prepares your skin for dark color development. It does not contain sunscreen but increases the pigmentation so your skin gets a quicker tan
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS - Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and the goodness of Vitamin E, both of which are powerful antioxidants, this tanning intensifier fights off free radicals, gently nourishes and cleanses your skin leaving it smooth and fresh
- ULTIMATE HYDRATION - The exotic combination of native oils, vital nutrients and Aloe Vera provide naturally soothing and deeply nourished skin that remains hydrated for long. Available in a delectable Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla fragrance
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED - Australian Gold's time-tested formula is designed to be Vegan, Gluten Free, while being loaded with the goodness of Kakadu Plums and Safflower Seed Oil for an instant radiant tan
$7.37
Buy on Amazon
No. 2
Maui Babe Browning Lotion - Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants - Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types - Made in USA - 4 fl oz
- All natural-Featuring an old family formula packed with Hawaii’s most splendid natural ingredients, the Maui Babe browning lotion does not only support getting a glowing tan faster but it even moisturizes and nourishes your skin for an all-over charming summer look.
- Maui Babe Browning lotion is NOT a self tanner or bronzer. You do need to be in the sun in order to acquire a tan. While Maui Babe Browning is brown in color and not a stain, if contact is made with clothing, towels, furniture, it MAY cause staining. We recommend if contact made with these items, to rinse immediately to avoid staining. Do not allow to sit and dry.
- Apply an SPF of your choosing first. We recommend an SPF30 and above. Let sit on skin for 5-10 minutes and then apply your Maui Babe Browning lotion.
- Bottle size is 4 ounces, shake well before each use.
No. 3
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC
- ACHIEVE A DEEPER, DARKER TAN - This dark tanning accelerator lotion with instant bronzer intensifies your bronze glow & helps you achieve a darker tan. Blends effortlessly and absorbs quickly, allowing for an even sunless tanning or outdoor sun tanning
- BLESSED WITH AUSTRALIAN NATURALS - A rich blend of Kakadu Plum extract with highest content of Vitamin C, and Tea Tree Oil, a powerful antioxidant, fights off free radicals and gently cleanses your skin leaving it healthy and smooth
- BIOSINE COMPLEX FOR A LONG-LASTING TAN - This tanning intensifier contains an advanced combination of ingredients that prepare your skin for a dark color development while soothing, smoothening & nourishing your skin. It does not contain sunscreen
- HYDRATION & SUPERIOR SKIN BENEFITS - Enriched with Vitamin A & E and Natural Oils, this accelerator & bronzer not only helps build a flawless tan but also supplies essential nutrients to the skin, while moisturizing & hydrating it for a soft & supple feel
- REFRESHING FRAGRANCE - This tanning accelerator lotion takes you on an instant vacation to the beach with its signature Cocoa Dreams fragrance in a delectable and long-lasting scent of Coconut, Orange and Vanilla that keeps you fresh all day long
$8.99
Buy on Amazon
No. 4
Tanning Bed Lotion Accelerator, Bronzer Free & DHA Free - That's What Sea Said Extreme Dark Indoor Tanning Lotion for Sunbeds & Outdoor Sun, Tattoo Safe, Coconut Oil & Aloe, Face & Body, 13.5 fl oz
- Get Darker, Faster: This tanning bed lotion accelerator uses a tyrosine-rich formula with natural accelerants to help boost your skin's own melanin production, so you build a deeper, richer bronze in fewer sessions - in the sunbed or under the sun, for men and women
- Bronzer Free & DHA Free: The pure white formula gives you a real tan, not a stain - no orange tones, no streaks, and nothing transfers onto clothes, towels, or sheets. A true indoor tanning lotion accelerator with no self-tanner, so color develops naturally and fades evenly
- Coconut Lemon Meringue Scent: Goes on with a bright, candied-lemon citrus fragrance and a soft coconut note, then settles into a sweet lemon-dessert scent after your session, with none of the burnt after-tan smell. This is a noticeably fragranced lotion, made for people who love a scented tan
- Deeply Hydrating, Never Sticky: Aloe vera, coconut, passionfruit, and hibiscus hydrate and soothe skin while you tan, absorbing quickly with a smooth, non-greasy finish that leaves skin soft for hours - no oily residue on the tanning bed or your beach towel
- Face & Body, Tattoo Friendly, Vegan & Made in USA: Gentle enough for face and body, and the bronzer-free formula won't stain or discolor tattoos. Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. Contains no SPF and does not protect against sunburn. Apply evenly to clean, dry skin before your session; avoid applying right after shaving, and patch test first if you have sensitive skin
No. 5
Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil, 8 Fl Oz (2 Pack) | Moisturizing body oil, Made with cocoa butter, Enhances outdoor tan, Iconic tropical scent, Vegan, Dermatologist tested
- MOISTURIZING BODY OIL — Made with coconut oil and cocoa butter
- ENHANCES YOUR TAN — Hawaiian Tropic Tanning Oil moisturizes and keeps skin soft and luminous as you enjoy the sun
- ICONIC HAWAIIAN TROPIC SCENT
- FOR A LONG-LASTING TAN use with Hawaiian Tropic Lime Coolada After Sun Lotion or Weightless Hydration After Sun Lotion to help hydrate your skin after a day in the sun
- PETA-CERTIFIED CRUELTY-FREE — We never test on animals
$20.98
Buy on Amazon
No. 6
b.tan 0 SPF Tanning Oil - Tanned AF Intensifier Dry Spray, Sun Tan Bronzer | Fast, Ultra Dark Dry Oil, Outdoor Use, Suntan Browning & DHA Self Tanner Actives, Hydrating Bronze Glow, Beach Essentials
- TINTED TANNING OIL. im perfect for when you want your tan dark but dont want to lay out allllll day
- FAST RESULTS. tan accelerating actives speed up the tanning process, which means less time in the sun for deeper, darker tanning results
- HYDRATING FORMULA. im packed full of ultra hydrating coconut, argan, and jojoba oil to keep your skin hydrated too
- EASY TO USE. apply generously to skin when sun tanning to get yourself a hydrated, deep, bangin bronze glow.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. we love animals so no, we do not test on them. and we love your bod so we keep all the nasties out of our products, so you know your skin is getting well looked after and while youre looking hot af. simple.
No. 7
Onyx Strongest Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion, Effective Tan Enhancer | Tanning Bed Lotion for Indoor Use, Outdoor Sun, Moisturizing Skin Care, Intensifier, Deep Golden Color
- Deeper-looking golden tan: Formulated with Tyrosine for UV tanning sessions, this accelerator complements your tanning routine for deeper-looking golden color without added cosmetic bronzer
- Clean white lotion: DHA-free white formula contains no added cosmetic tanning color, ideal for tanners who prefer a clean tanning routine
- Moisturizing skin feel: Aloe Vera, Glycerin, Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Coconut, Macadamia, Avocado, Sesame and Tamanu Oils help moisturize and condition skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture: Silky white lotion spreads easily and absorbs quickly without a heavy, sticky or greasy feel
- Indoor & outdoor tanning: Made for tanning bed sessions and outdoor sun tanning, with a tropical-inspired scent that adds a pleasant sensory element to your tanning routine
No. 8
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
- Multiple Tan Intensifier + Melanin Stimulators for All Skin Types. Achieve your faster, deeper, darker, long-lasting tan with less exposure to the sun or sunbed with Jeallis tanning lotion for outdoor sun & tanning beds. Including Melanobronze + Tyrosine, this dark tanning accelerator stimulates melanin formation to accelerate the tanning process, helps achieve a natural tan that compliments all skin types. A prefect sun tan lotion choice even for people with fair pale skin.
- DHA Free. Jeallis outdoor indoor tanning lotion with bronzer and accelerator speeds up the tanning process while you bask in the sun or use a tanning bed, delivering natural golden glow results without the use of DHA or fake processes. The bronzing tanning lotion for tanning beds and sun activates the melanin in your skin so you get tanned faster but it doesn’t make you orange, tan intensifier for sun and tanning beds just makes you get to your natural tanned color.
- Ultimate Hydration & Skin Firming. People love how our indoor outdoor tanning accelerator helps prevent against wrinkles and signs of ageing. Contains coconut oil and botanical extracts that lock in moisture to provide intense, deep skin hydration, all of which are powerful antioxidants, this tan enhancer for sun and sunbed fights off free radicals, gently nourishes and cleanses your skin leaving it smooth, fresh, luxurious and supple, giving a maximum tanning experience.
- Tattoo & Color Fade Protectors. It’s time to say goodbye to tanning bed lotion that doesn't prevent your tattoos from fading. Our tanning accelerator lotion outdoor indoor actively creates a protective barrier that works to stop your ink from becoming dull and damaged from UV rays. Tattoo Protecting & Color Prolonging Formula in Jeallis indoor & outdoor tanning accelerator firms and softens skin, prolonging the life and radiance of your tattoos and tanning results for longer.
- Specially Formulated. Jeallis dark tanning bed lotion accelerator for outdoor sun & tanning beds with bronzer is specially for easy application and with coconut oil to be Vegan, Gluten Free, Cruelty Free for a rich, dark, radiant tan. Our sun & sunbed tanning lotion to get dark fast is specially formulated with a proprietary blend of tyrosines to help stimulate melanin production. Rub evenly to have that beautiful glow! No need to endure painful tingling sensations with this tan accelerator for tanning beds .
Your Guide to Getting a Golden Glow: Outdoor Tan Accelerators
Want to get that sun-kissed look faster and more evenly? Outdoor tan accelerators can help! These special lotions and sprays work with the sun to boost your natural tanning process. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for an outdoor tan accelerator, keep these important features in mind:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Good accelerators don’t just help you tan; they also keep your skin soft and hydrated. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. Dry skin can make tanning uneven.
- Sun Protection (SPF): Some accelerators have SPF. This is great for protecting your skin while you tan. However, remember that SPF slows down tanning a little. If your main goal is a super-fast tan, you might choose one with low SPF or none at all and apply a separate sunscreen.
- Natural Tanning Boosters: Many accelerators contain ingredients that help your skin absorb UV rays better. Look for things like tyrosine or beta-carotene. These natural elements signal your skin to produce more melanin, the pigment that gives you a tan.
- Fragrance: Some people love a tropical scent, while others prefer something unscented. Most accelerators have a pleasant smell, but it’s good to check if you’re sensitive to perfumes.
- Water Resistance: If you plan to swim or sweat a lot, a water-resistant formula is a must. This way, your accelerator stays on your skin and keeps working.
What’s Inside Matters: Important Materials
The ingredients in your tan accelerator are key to how well it works and how it feels on your skin.
- Natural Oils: Coconut oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil are common. They moisturize your skin and help it feel smooth.
- Butters: Shea butter and cocoa butter are excellent for deep hydration. They prevent your skin from getting dry and flaky.
- Vitamins: Vitamins like E are antioxidants. They help protect your skin.
- Amino Acids: Tyrosine is a popular ingredient. It’s a building block for melanin, so it helps your body tan faster.
- Carotenoids: Beta-carotene, found in carrots, can also help with tanning.
Making the Grade: Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all tan accelerators are created equal. Here’s what makes a difference:
-
What Improves Quality:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Using pure, natural oils and effective tanning boosters makes a big difference.
- Good Moisturization: Skin that stays hydrated tans better and lasts longer.
- Easy Application: A formula that spreads easily and doesn’t feel sticky is a plus.
- Pleasant Scent: A light, fresh smell enhances the experience.
-
What Reduces Quality:
- Harsh Chemicals: Some products might contain artificial colors or strong preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin.
- Greasy Formulas: A lotion that feels too heavy or oily can be uncomfortable.
- Lack of Moisturization: If a product dries out your skin, it’s not a good choice.
- Weak Tanning Boosters: If the product doesn’t seem to help you tan faster, the ingredients might not be effective.
Your Tanning Buddy: User Experience and Use Cases
Using an outdoor tan accelerator is pretty simple. You apply it to clean, dry skin before you go out in the sun. Reapply it every couple of hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
-
Who Uses Them?
- People who want to tan quicker.
- Those who struggle to get a tan.
- Anyone looking for an even tan.
- Sunbathers and beachgoers.
- People who enjoy outdoor activities.
-
When to Use Them:
- On sunny days at the beach or pool.
- During outdoor sports.
- Anytime you’re spending extended time in the sun.
Remember, even with a tan accelerator, sun safety is important. Always wear sunscreen, especially if your accelerator has low or no SPF.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Outdoor Tan Accelerators
Q: What is an outdoor tan accelerator?
A: An outdoor tan accelerator is a product you apply to your skin before sun exposure. It helps your skin tan more quickly and deeply by working with the sun’s UV rays.
Q: How do tan accelerators work?
A: They often contain ingredients that help your skin absorb UV rays better. Some also have moisturizers that prepare your skin for tanning.
Q: Do I still need sunscreen if I use a tan accelerator?
A: Yes, you almost always do. Many accelerators have low SPF or none at all. Sunscreen protects your skin from burning.
Q: Can anyone use tan accelerators?
A: Most people can. However, if you have very sensitive skin, it’s wise to test a small area first or choose a product with gentle, natural ingredients.
Q: Will a tan accelerator help me tan if I don’t usually tan?
A: They can help! They make your skin more receptive to the sun. But results can vary from person to person.
Q: How often should I apply a tan accelerator?
A: Apply it before you go into the sun. Reapply it every two hours, and after swimming or sweating a lot.
Q: Can I use a tan accelerator indoors under a tanning bed?
A: Most outdoor tan accelerators are designed for natural sunlight. You should use products specifically made for tanning beds.
Q: What if I get burned while using an accelerator?
A: If you get burned, get out of the sun immediately. Use aloe vera to soothe your skin and take care of it. Avoid using the accelerator again until your skin has healed.
Q: How long does the tan from an accelerator last?
A: The tan itself lasts as long as a normal tan, usually a week or two. The accelerator just helps you get it faster.
Q: Are there any side effects of using tan accelerators?
A: The main risk is sunburn if you don’t use enough sun protection. Some people might have a mild skin reaction to certain ingredients.