Tanning lotion, as the name suggests, can help you achieve a beautiful, sun-kissed glow. It can be used indoors in a tanning bed or outdoors under the sun’s natural rays. The right tanning lotion can improve tanning results and shield against harmful UV rays. Not all tanning products, however, are created equal and some formulations are only meant to be used indoors or outdoors. Start a search today to find the right tanning lotion for you.
Shutterstock: Ground PictureWhat Is Tanning Lotion?
Tanning lotion is a specific type of skin product designed to increase melanin production, which in turn, helps to darken your skin tone. Melanin is the pigment responsible for your skin color.1 These lotions often contain various ingredients such as oils, minerals, natural botanical extracts, and bronzing agents, all tailored to promote a quick and long-lasting tan while nourishing and protecting the skin.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Tanning Lotions
The main difference between indoor and outdoor tanning lotions lies in their formulation.2 Indoor tanning lotions, meant for tanning beds, are generally more intense and designed to accelerate the tanning process in a controlled environment. These lotions lack sunscreen since tanning beds emit primarily UVA rays.
Outdoor tanning lotions, on the other hand, are often formulated with a sun protection factor (SPF) to guard against the sun’s UVB rays.3 These tanning lotions focus on hydrating the skin while promoting a gradual, natural tan. They’re typically thicker in consistency to resist wear from activities like swimming or sweating.
Types of Tanning Lotions
Different types of tanning lotions cater to various tanning preferences. Some tanning lotions work as accelerators, while others work as self-tanning alternatives that don’t require actual tanning. Here are some common types of indoor and outdoor tanning lotions:
- Hot action or tingle lotions: These lotions promote microcirculation, increasing the oxygen supply to the skin’s surface to accelerate the tanning process.4
- Accelerators or maximizers: Ideal for beginners, these lotions provide a base tan by increasing melanin production. They contain moisturizers to keep skin hydrated.
- Bronzing lotions: Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, self-tanning bronzing lotion adds a dark cosmetic color to your skin instantly without requiring any actual tanning.
- Cooling lotions: These indoor and outdoor lotions provide a cooling sensation to the skin, helping to soothe and refresh your skin after a tanning session.5
It’s crucial to note that while some tanning lotions are formulated for both indoor and outdoor use, many are designed specifically for either indoor or outdoor tanning. So, it’s essential to research your options and select a lotion that aligns with your specific tanning preferences.
The Benefits of Using Tanning Lotions
Tanning lotions offer a range of benefits from enhancing your tan to moisturizing your skin.6 Here are some of the benefits that can come with using tanning lotions:
Accelerated Tanning Process
Tanning lotions can help you achieve that desired sun-kissed glow faster. Both indoor and outdoor lotions are designed to stimulate melanin production, which speeds up the tanning process.
Skin Hydration
One of the key benefits of using tanning lotions is the added hydration they provide to your skin. Most lotions contain moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and cocoa butter. These components ensure your skin retains its moisture during the tanning process.
Sun Protection
Many outdoor tanning lotions have a built-in sun protection factor. SPF is crucial in shielding your skin from the sun’s harmful UVB rays. It aids in preventing sunburns, premature aging, and even more serious concerns such as skin cancer.7
In short, tanning lotions go beyond facilitating a beautiful tan. They can also play a role in protecting your skin. Whether you’re looking for a quick bronzed look or a gradual, sun-kissed glow, tanning lotions can be a useful tool in achieving your desired skin tone while also keeping your skin’s overall health in mind.
Enhancing Your Glow With Tanning Lotions
Sorting through the range of tanning products on the market might seem a little overwhelming at first, but a quick online search can help you make an informed decision and select the right tanning lotion for your goals. Whether you’re someone who prefers to tan outside or inside, there’s a tanning lotion to suit your needs and preferences.
Tanning lotions aren’t just about achieving a golden glow. They’re also about maintaining radiant skin. In addition to darkening your skin tone, after all, tanning lotions can hydrate and protect your skin. So, it’s important to take a holistic look at your options. That way, you can select a tanning lotion that can help you achieve a glow and protect your skin.
