Do you dream of a deep, golden tan that lasts, but feel like you’re stuck waiting for the sun to work its magic? It’s frustrating when you spend time tanning, only to see minimal results. That’s where tanning accelerators come in, promising to speed up the process. But with so many bottles on the shelf, how do you pick the one that actually delivers without causing a sunburn disaster?
Choosing the perfect tanning accelerator can feel like guesswork. You want that beautiful bronze glow fast, but you worry about harsh chemicals or products that just don’t work for your skin type. We understand that confusion! This post cuts through the noise to explain exactly what these accelerators do and how they help your skin produce melanin quicker.
By the end of this guide, you will know the key ingredients to look for, understand the difference between various accelerators, and feel confident picking the best product for your next sun session. Get ready to unlock your best tan yet!
Top Tanning Accelerator Recommendations
- 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
- ACHIEVE A DEEPER, DARKER TAN - This dark tanning accelerator lotion helps intensify your golden glow & lets you achieve a darker color payoff. Blends effortlessly with the skin, imparting a beautiful sun-kissed look out on the beach or on a sun bed
- 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 a proprietary blend of premium ingredients that prepare your skin for a dark color development. It does not contain sunscreen
- ULTIMATE HYDRATION AND SKIN BENEFITS - Loaded with Vitamin A & E and Natural Oils, this accelerator lotion not only helps build a flawless tan but also supplies essential nutrients to your 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
- Sun Tanning Accelerator: Powered by the Infinite Tan System, featuring naturally derived carrot and coconut oils, it accelerates the tanning process for a rich, long-lasting bronze (SPF0).
- Instant Sun-Kissed Glow: Achieve a flawless, even tan instantly with our powerful blend of tanning oils, crafted for radiant results.
- Water-Resistant: This dual-action protectant and tanning blend of natural oils provides instant and even tanning results while remaining resistant to water. Perfect for any vacation!
- Nourishing & Hydrating: A powerful combination of Vitamin A and E for enhanced skin nourishment and protection. This tanning lotion moisturizes skin leaving it soft and smooth during tanning.
- Easy Application: Silky, easy-to-apply formula spreads evenly for a streak-free finish unlike tanning lotions. Perfect for a deep golden shimmering tan. Apply SPF prior to Carroten for UV protection.
- ACHIEVE A DEEPER, DARKER TAN - This dark tanning accelerator spray gel helps intensify your golden glow & lets you achieve a darker color payoff. Blends effortlessly with the skin, imparting a beautiful sun-kissed look out on the beach or on a sun bed
- 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 a proprietary blend of premium ingredients that prepare your skin for a dark color development. It does not contain sunscreen
- ULTIMATE HYDRATION AND SKIN BENEFITS - Loaded with Vitamin A & E and Natural Oils, this spray gel not only helps build a flawless tan but also supplies essential nutrients to your skin, while moisturizing & hydrating it for a soft & supple feel
- REFRESHING FRAGRANCE - This tanning accelerator spray gel 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
- ✅A Deep Tan: That’s What Sea Said tanning lotion is specially formulated for a rich, dark tan; Our outdoor and indoor tanning lotion contains a proprietary blend of tyrosines to help stimulate melanin production; Achieve a glowing golden bronze faster with this advanced tanning oil
- ✅Safe: Ideal for outdoor use as well as tanning lotion for tanning beds, That’s What Sea Said tan lotion has undergone stringent quality inspection and many hours of development with leading dermatological experts; This sun tanning lotion is crafted to the highest standards; Our promise is this; if we wouldn’t use this tanning oil for outdoor sun exposure ourselves, we won’t sell it
- ✅Tattoo Protection: It’s time to say goodbye to tanning bed lotion that doesn't prevent your tattoos from fading; Our advanced tan and tattoo lotion actively works to protect your ink from becoming dull; Show off your best self and tan more confidently with That’s What Sea Said tanning lotion
- ✅Advanced Hydration: People love how our dark tanning lotion helps prevent against wrinkles and signs of ageing; Enriched with aloe vera, coconut and passionfruit to lock in moisture, That’s What Sea Said outdoor and indoor tanning bed lotion is enhanced with botanical extracts for smooth, luxurious and supple skin
- ✅No Stains: Tell self tanner lotions that leave unsightly stains on your sheets and clothes to step aside, this premium body and face tanner from That’s What Sea Said is a white suntan lotion and has a smooth touch that’s never sticky; What’s more, our body and face tanning lotion smells like a gentle coconut summer breeze
- 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
- Faster, bronzer-free tan: Unlike typical bronzing lotions, this formula accelerates melanin production, helping you achieve a dark, golden tan quickly without the mess or artificial color.
- Perfect for indoor tanning beds or sun exposure: Whether you're indoors or outdoors, this lotion boosts your tan, ensuring quick results and a rich, even glow every time you tan.
- Streak-free & no stains: Get a flawless tan with no streaks or stains, leaving your skin smooth and clean after every use. No more worrying about the mess of bronzers.
- Non-greasy & fast absorption: This lightweight lotion absorbs rapidly, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and non-greasy. Enjoy a comfortable, moisturized feel while you tan.
- Hydrating & nourishing for all skin types: Suitable for every skin type, this lotion provides intense hydration and nourishment, ensuring your skin stays soft and glowing as you develop a long-lasting tan.
- DARK UV TANNING LOTION. i boost + accelerate natural tanning results to the darkest level thanks to x2000 tanning intensifiers
- x2000 TANNING INTENSIFIERS. i'm made with peptides to help boost skin melanin levels while activating + accelerating the tanning process
- SO MOISTURIZING. i’m juiced up with mango butter to moisturize + nourish your skin as you tan
- EASY TO USE. apply lotion liberally + evenly to your whole body before sun or UV bed exposure. re-apply as necessary.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i'm free of nasties and i love animals so i'm vegan + cruelty free
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Tanning Accelerator
Want a deeper, faster tan? Tanning accelerators are popular products that help your skin reach that golden glow sooner. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide breaks down what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
Speed and Depth of Tan
- Melanin Boosters: Look for ingredients that naturally encourage melanin production. This is the pigment that makes your skin tan. More melanin means a faster, deeper color.
- Rapid Absorption: A good accelerator sinks into your skin quickly. You do not want a greasy feeling that takes forever to dry.
Skin Hydration
- Moisturizing Agents: Tanning dries out your skin. The best accelerators include ingredients to keep your skin soft and supple during the process.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The contents of your tanning accelerator matter a lot. These materials work to speed up your natural tanning process.
Essential Actives
- Tyrosine: This is a common amino acid. It is the building block for melanin. Products high in tyrosine often work very well.
- Melanotropin: Some advanced formulas include synthetic versions of hormones that signal your skin to produce more pigment.
Hydrating and Protecting Agents
- Natural Oils (Coconut, Almond): These oils help lock moisture into the skin. Dry skin often tans unevenly or peels.
- Vitamins (A, E): These vitamins help protect your skin cells while you tan.
Factors That Affect Quality
Not all accelerators are created equal. Some products deliver amazing results; others just feel like lotion. Here is how quality is made or broken.
What Improves Quality?
- High Concentration of Actives: When the main tanning boosters are high on the ingredient list, the product usually works better.
- Freshness: Ingredients break down over time. Always check the expiration date. Fresh products perform best.
- Proper Formulation: The ingredients must be mixed correctly so your skin can easily absorb them.
What Reduces Quality?
- Too Much Fragrance/Filler: If the bottle is mostly cheap scents or basic water, the active tanning ingredients are likely diluted. This reduces effectiveness.
- Using Old Product: Expired accelerators lose their potency. The speed and depth of your tan will suffer greatly.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the product changes your results. Consider when and where you plan to tan.
Indoor Tanning (Tanning Beds)
- Accelerators are often specially designed for UV light. They maximize the intensity of the lamps.
Outdoor Tanning (Sunbathing)
- If you use it outside, remember that an accelerator does not replace sunscreen! You must apply a separate, broad-spectrum SPF product over the accelerator or use one that has SPF built in.
Texture and Scent
Most users prefer a non-greasy texture. A pleasant, mild scent is a bonus, but strong, artificial smells often signal lower quality. Good accelerators feel light and absorb fast, letting you get straight to tanning.
Tanning Accelerator FAQs
Q: Do tanning accelerators really work faster than regular lotion?
A: Yes, they usually do. They contain special ingredients, like Tyrosine, that tell your skin to make more tan pigment (melanin) quickly when exposed to UV light.
Q: Should I use an accelerator indoors or outdoors?
A: Many accelerators work well in both settings. However, some are specifically formulated to work best under the intense UV bulbs used in tanning salons.
Q: Is it safe to use a tanning accelerator without sunscreen?
A: No. Tanning accelerators speed up tanning, but they do not protect you from burning or UV damage. Always apply sunscreen separately, especially when tanning outdoors.
Q: How often should I apply the accelerator?
A: Apply a thin, even layer right before every tanning session. You do not need to reapply during a short session.
Q: Will an accelerator make me look orange?
A: Good quality accelerators that focus on melanin boosting should not turn you orange. That color is usually caused by DHA, an ingredient found in self-tanners, not typical accelerators.
Q: What if I have sensitive skin?
A: If your skin is sensitive, choose an accelerator that avoids heavy perfumes and alcohol. Look for products listing calming ingredients like Aloe Vera.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Most users notice a deeper color after just a few sessions compared to using regular lotion.
Q: Can I use this product if I am pregnant?
A: It is best to ask your doctor first. Because these products stimulate skin changes, it is safer to wait until after you have consulted a medical professional.
Q: Do I need to shower immediately after tanning?
A: You can shower after your session is complete. Avoid harsh soaps right away so you do not strip the fresh tan color.
Q: What is the difference between an accelerator and a bronzer?
A: An accelerator boosts your natural tan production. A bronzer contains temporary color additives that give you an instant, wash-off color boost during the session.