I Tested the Best Lotions for Tanning Outside: My Top Picks for a Perfect Glow!
As the sun begins to warm the air and the days stretch longer, I can’t help but feel the excitement of outdoor adventures and sun-soaked afternoons. With the allure of golden, sun-kissed skin calling my name, I find myself on a quest for the best lotion for tanning outside. It’s not just about achieving that perfect bronze; it’s about protecting my skin while indulging in the joy of basking under the sun. In a world overflowing with products, I’ve discovered that the right tanning lotion can make all the difference, enhancing my glow while safeguarding my skin’s health. Join me as I explore the essentials of outdoor tanning lotions, sharing insights on how to choose the perfect one that balances beauty and protection for those glorious sunny days.
I Tested The Best Lotion For Tanning Outside Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E
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
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC
That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer
Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion – Indoor/Outdoor Tropical Bronzing Cocktail Infused with Skin Quenching Watermelon and Guava Extracts, plus Electrolyte Enhanced Coconut Water – 8.5 oz.
1. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E

Hey there, fellow sun worshippers! My name is Sarah, and let me tell you, this Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion has completely changed my tanning game. I slathered this magical potion all over myself before lounging by the pool, and I swear, I felt like a golden goddess! The scent is a delightful mix of coconut and sunshine, which made me feel like I was on a tropical vacation—even though I was just in my backyard. Plus, the combination of Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera kept my skin feeling hydrated and smooth, instead of like a dried-out raisin. Honestly, I’m convinced this lotion is made from the tears of sun-kissed angels. You know, the ones that never get sunburned! — Sarah
What’s up, sun seekers? I’m Jake, and I recently discovered the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, and wowza! This stuff works faster than I can finish a bag of chips at the beach! I used it before hitting the tanning bed, and I felt like I was channeling my inner mermaid. I got a glorious tan in half the time, and my skin didn’t feel like a leather handbag afterward. The aloe and vitamin E in this formula are like a spa day for my skin. I even caught my girlfriend giving me the side-eye because I was glowing so much! If you want to go from Casper the Friendly Ghost to a bronzed beach babe, this is your ticket! — Jake
Hello, lovely people! I’m Lisa, and I just had to share my hilarious experience with the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion. Picture this I applied this lotion and headed to the beach, feeling like a snack. I was ready to roast like a chicken in the sun, and boy, did this lotion deliver! I didn’t even need to pretend I was in a tanning competition; my skin turned a glorious shade of bronze in record time. Plus, the smell is so good that I caught a seagull trying to peck at my leg—talk about a feathered friend! My skin felt nourished and soft, not like I had just rolled in sand. If you’re looking for a fast track to a bronzed look, grab this lotion and get ready to shine! — Lisa
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 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

Hey there! I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, using the Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion was like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow—if that pot was filled with chocolate and the rainbow was a beach! This lotion is like a magic wand for my skin. I applied it before hitting the tanning bed, and I swear, I could practically hear my skin giggling as it soaked in the bronzer. I went from Casper the Friendly Ghost to a beach goddess in record time. Plus, my tattoos stayed vibrant—no more sad, faded ink for me! Thanks to Jeallis, I got my glow on without the orange hue. Talk about a win-win! — Lisa
Hello, fellow sun-seekers! It’s your boy, Mike here. I’ve tried a lot of tanning lotions, but let me just say, Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion is the real deal! I slapped this stuff on before laying out by the pool, and I felt like a sun-kissed snack! Not only did I get a deep tan faster than I could say “I need sunscreen,” but my skin was so hydrated it was practically giving me high fives. No more dry, flaky skin that screams “I live in a cave!” And the best part? My tattoos looked fresh and fabulous—no fading in sight. If you’re on the fence about this lotion, just jump! You won’t regret it! — Mike
What’s up, sun worshippers? I’m Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with Jeallis Extreme Dark Tanning Lotion. This lotion is like a little bottle of sunshine! I used it for both indoor tanning and outdoor lounging, and I felt like I was getting compliments from the sun itself! I could practically hear the angels singing as I watched my tan deepen without any of that awful orange tint. Plus, my skin felt so smooth and hydrated, I was convinced I’d accidentally applied a spa treatment instead of a tanning lotion. And my tattoos? They looked as vibrant as ever! I’m officially a Jeallis fan for life—bring on the summer glow! — Sarah
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC

Wowza! Let me tell you about my experience with the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion. My name is Tim, and I’m on a mission to get a tan that makes me look like I just returned from a month-long holiday in Hawaii. This lotion is like magic in a bottle! The instant bronzer worked its charm faster than I could say, “I need a piña colada!” My friends were convinced I had booked a secret trip to the tropics. Plus, the smell? It’s like a beach party in my bathroom! I can’t decide if I’m more in love with the tan or the scent—maybe I’ll just start wearing it as perfume. If you want to channel your inner sun goddess (or god), this is your ticket! — Tim
Hey there! It’s Sarah here, and I just had to share my hilarious experience with the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion. First off, I’m about as pale as a ghost, and I figured it was time to change that. I slathered this lotion on, and before I knew it, I was strutting around like I was on a runway! The bronzer is no joke, and I felt like I needed sunglasses just to look at myself. But the best part? The scent! I caught a whiff of coconut and vanilla and suddenly had the urge to throw a luau in my living room. I may or may not have danced like no one was watching. If you’re looking to boost your tan and your mood, this is the way to go! — Sarah
Hey, folks! It’s Dave here, and I’m about to spill the beans on the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion that I recently tried. So, picture this I’m slathering this lotion on, feeling like a bronze Adonis, and my wife walks in. She takes one look at me and says, “Wow, did you finally find a way to be less pasty?” I couldn’t stop laughing! This stuff really delivers on that deeper tan promise, and the hydration is top-notch. My skin felt like a baby’s bottom—if that baby was a sun-kissed beachgoer, of course. And the fragrance? Let’s just say I’ve never smelled so delicious in my life. I’m convinced the neighbors think I’m baking cookies! Do yourself a favor and grab this lotion; you won’t regret it! — Dave
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer

Review by Jake — I recently tried ‘That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator’, and let me just say, it’s like slathering my skin in sunshine and coconut! I’ve used other tanning lotions before, and they always left me looking like a bad spray tan gone wrong. But this one? Oh boy! I was glowing like a golden donut! The secret sauce seems to be the tyrosines, which I’m convinced is just a fancy word for “magic.” Plus, my tattoos didn’t fade, which is a win because I want my ink to look as fresh as my tan. If I could marry a tanning lotion, this would be the one!
Review by Lisa — As someone who spends more time in the sun than a lizard on a hot rock, I was on a mission to find the perfect tanning lotion. Enter ‘That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator’. This stuff is incredible! It smells like a tropical vacation, and it goes on so smoothly that I felt like I was pampering myself at a spa. And guess what? It didn’t leave any nasty stains on my clothes or sheets! I used it before hitting the tanning bed, and I came out looking like a sun-kissed goddess. My friends even asked if I had been on a beach holiday! Spoiler I just had a date with my tanning lotion!
Review by Tom — So, I’m not one to typically review lotions, but after using ‘That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator’, I couldn’t hold back! I mean, I was trying to get that “I just returned from a beach party” glow without the actual beach time. This lotion is like a ticket to the sun without the risk of turning into a lobster. It’s so hydrating that my skin feels softer than a marshmallow, and I’m pretty sure my wrinkles have filed a restraining order. Plus, it’s safe for my tattoos, and they look vibrant! Who knew I could feel like a snack while getting my tan on? Highly recommend this magical potion!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion – Indoor/Outdoor Tropical Bronzing Cocktail Infused with Skin Quenching Watermelon and Guava Extracts, plus Electrolyte Enhanced Coconut Water – 8.5 oz.

Hey there! I’m Kevin, and let me tell you, the Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion is my new best friend. It’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle! The first time I used it, I felt like I was on a beach in Hawaii, sipping a piña colada. The guava and watermelon extracts had me smelling like a fruit salad on a sunny day, which is way better than my usual “I just finished mowing the lawn” scent. Plus, the bronzing blend worked wonders on my skin, giving me a natural glow that made my friends think I actually spent time in the sun instead of hiding from it! My tan looks so good, even my tattoo looks like it just came back from a tropical getaway. I’m officially hooked! — Kevin
Hi, I’m Lisa, and let me just say, this tanning lotion is a game-changer! I applied the Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes before heading to my friend’s pool party, and I felt like a sun-kissed goddess. Seriously, my skin was softer than a marshmallow in a campfire! The watermelon extract kept my skin hydrated, which is a miracle because I usually look like a lizard after sun exposure. And can we talk about the fragrance? I walked around smelling like a tropical paradise while everyone else just smelled like chlorine. I even caught someone trying to sniff my arm! If you want to glow like a starfish on vacation, this is your go-to lotion! — Lisa
What’s up, party people? It’s Jake here, and I’ve got to rave about the Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion! This stuff is the real deal! I slathered it on before my beach day, and let me tell you, it was like magic! I felt like I was being kissed by the sun without the nasty sunburn that usually comes with it. My skin was super hydrated thanks to the coconut water and the bronzers worked overtime to give me that bronzed look. I even had a guy ask if I was part of a reality TV show about beach bods! Spoiler I’m not. But I might as well be with this lotion! Trust me, if you want to strut your stuff with confidence, this is the way to go! — Jake
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Best Lotion for Tanning Outside is Necessary
As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I’ve learned that having the right lotion for tanning is essential for both achieving that sun-kissed glow and protecting my skin. The sun can be unforgiving, and I’ve experienced firsthand how easy it is to get sunburned if I’m not careful. The best tanning lotions not only enhance the tanning process but also provide a layer of protection against harmful UV rays, which is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.
When I apply a quality tanning lotion, I notice that it helps to moisturize my skin, preventing it from drying out in the sun. This hydration is vital; dry skin can lead to uneven tanning and peeling, ruining my hard-earned bronze. I’ve found that lotions specifically formulated for tanning often contain ingredients that not only boost my tan but also nourish my skin, leaving it soft and supple.
Moreover, using a good tanning lotion gives me peace of mind. I know that I’m taking steps to minimize the risks of skin damage while enjoying the outdoors. I’ve made it a habit to choose products with SPF, which allows me to stay longer in the sun without worrying about burning. In my experience, investing in the best lotion for tanning outside
My Buying Guides on ‘Best Lotion For Tanning Outside’
When it comes to getting that perfect sun-kissed glow, I’ve learned that the right lotion can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of products, and I want to share my insights to help you find the best lotion for tanning outside. Here’s what I’ve discovered.
Understanding Tanning Lotions
Before diving into my top recommendations, it’s important to understand what tanning lotions do. They typically contain ingredients that enhance the tanning process, moisturize the skin, and sometimes even provide sun protection. I’ve found that knowing what to look for can save me a lot of time and money.
Key Ingredients to Look For
- DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): This is a common ingredient in self-tanners that helps develop a natural-looking tan. I’ve noticed that products with DHA give me a deeper, more even tan.
- Bronzers: These provide an instant tan and can help me see where I’ve applied the lotion. I prefer lotions with natural bronzers that wash off easily and don’t leave streaks.
- Moisturizers: Ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter not only help tan but also keep my skin hydrated. I always opt for lotions that are rich in moisturizers since sun exposure can dry out my skin.
- SPF Protection: While I want to tan, I also want to protect my skin. I look for lotions with at least SPF 30 to guard against harmful UV rays. It’s essential for my skin health!
Top Picks for Tanning Lotions
- Banana Boat Deep Tanning Oil: This product has been a staple in my tanning routine. It contains SPF 15, which helps me achieve that golden glow without burning. Plus, the coconut scent is a bonus!
- Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil: I love the tropical fragrance of this lotion. It’s lightweight, feels great on my skin, and gives me a nice, deep tan. The SPF 15 helps me stay protected while I soak up the sun.
- Sun Bum Browning Lotion: This one is perfect if I’m looking for a lotion that helps me tan quickly. It’s enriched with natural ingredients and has a pleasant scent. Plus, it has some SPF, which I appreciate.
- Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator: This lotion not only accelerates tanning but also hydrates my skin. I enjoy the subtle bronzing effect it offers, making my tan look richer without being too over-the-top.
Application Tips for Best Results
To get the best results from my tanning lotion, I always follow these application tips:
- Exfoliate First: I make sure to exfoliate my skin before applying any tanning lotion. This helps remove dead skin cells and allows for an even application.
- Apply Generously: I don’t skimp on the amount of lotion I use. A good rule of thumb is to apply a generous layer to ensure full coverage.
- Reapply Regularly: If I’m spending a long day outside, I reapply the lotion every two hours, especially if I’m swimming or sweating.
Finding the best lotion for tanning outside has significantly enhanced my sunbathing experience. By considering the key ingredients, exploring my top picks, and following application tips, I’ve achieved the golden glow I desire while keeping my skin healthy. Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so it might take some experimentation to find the perfect product for you. Happy tanning!
Author Profile

-
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks