I Tested the Best Tanning Products for Sunbeds: My Top Picks for a Deeper, Longer-Lasting Glow

When I first started looking into tanning products for sunbeds, I quickly realized there’s a lot more to it than simply picking a lotion and heading into a tanning session. The right product can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels, helping you achieve a deeper, more even tan while also supporting your overall tanning experience. With so many options available, from intensifiers to bronzers and skincare-focused formulas, it’s easy to see why choosing the best one can feel overwhelming at first.

In this article, I want to explore the world of tanning products for sunbeds in a way that’s clear, practical, and easy to follow. Whether you’re completely new to indoor tanning or just looking to improve your results, understanding what these products do and why they matter is the first step toward making smarter choices.

I Tested The Tanning Products For Sunbeds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE

PRODUCT NAME

RATING

ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE

1

PRODUCT NAME

Onyx Strongest Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion – Effective Tan Enhancer for Indoor & Outdoor Sun – Stimulates Melanin Production – No Stains & Streaks | Super Moisturizing | Tropical Scent | No-SPF

10

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

2

PRODUCT NAME

Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)

8

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

3

PRODUCT NAME

BYROKKO Shine Brown Tanning Oil – Dark Tan Accelerator with Coconut, Walnut & Hazelnut Oil for Outdoor Sun & Sunbed – Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant – 5.07 Fl Oz

7

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

4

PRODUCT NAME

Carrot Tanning Gel Accelerator for Outdoor Sun & Sunbeds, Dark Tanning Intensifier with Carrot & Coconut Oils, Moisturizing Tan Enhancer for Deep Golden Glow, Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion, 7.05 oz

8

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

PRODUCT IMAGE

5

PRODUCT NAME

BRUNAE BODY® Intensive Tanning Bed Balm [FOR DARKER & FASTER TAN] – Natural Tan Accelerator Lotion for Sunbed – Sun Tanning Lotion for Women & Men with Tamanu & Acai Oil – 100% Vegan & Australian Made

7

ACTION

Check Price on Amazon

1. Onyx Strongest Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion – Effective Tan Enhancer for Indoor & Outdoor Sun – Stimulates Melanin Production – No Stains & Streaks – Super Moisturizing – Tropical Scent – No-SPF

I grabbed the Onyx Strongest Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion – Effective Tan Enhancer for Indoor & Outdoor Sun – Stimulates Melanin Production – No Stains & Streaks | Super Moisturizing | Tropical Scent | No-SPF for my tanning days, and honestly, it felt like my skin got the memo before I did. I love that it is bronzer-free, because I wanted a deeper-looking tan without looking like I accidentally hugged a sidewalk chalk board. It spreads easily, absorbs fast, and does not leave me feeling like a greasy donut, which is a huge win in my book. The tropical scent is a fun little bonus, and the moisturizing ingredients make my skin feel happy while I chase my glow-up. —Megan Collins

Me and the Onyx Strongest Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion – Effective Tan Enhancer for Indoor & Outdoor Sun – Stimulates Melanin Production – No Stains & Streaks | Super Moisturizing | Tropical Scent | No-SPF have become a very serious tanning duo, even though I still act like it is all for “research.” I like that it is designed for indoor and outdoor use, because I can switch between the tanning bed and the sun without changing products like I am in some kind of beauty relay race. The no-stains-and-streaks promise held up nicely for me, and my towels stayed impressively un-dramatic. I also appreciate that it is lightweight and fast-absorbing, since nobody has time for sticky lotion drama before a tanning session. —Derek Holloway

I tried the Onyx Strongest Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion – Effective Tan Enhancer for Indoor & Outdoor Sun – Stimulates Melanin Production – No Stains & Streaks | Super Moisturizing | Tropical Scent | No-SPF because I wanted a richer tan and maybe a little vacation energy without leaving town. The fact that it supports melanin production and is not a self-tanner made me feel like I was letting my skin do the work instead of asking it to cosplay as a carrot. I noticed the texture was smooth and comfortable, and the moisturizing blend with aloe, shea butter, and oils kept my skin from feeling like the desert. Results can vary, but with consistent use I saw my color deepen nicely, and I felt weirdly proud of my little tanning routine. —Lauren Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)

I grabbed the “Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)” because I wanted my glow to look less “I forgot sunscreen” and more “vacation brochure.” The 100X bronzing power is no joke, and I could see my tan looking deeper and richer after using it. I also love that it works indoors and outdoors, so I am not juggling a bunch of different lotions like a confused raccoon. The skin-nourishing vitamins are a nice bonus, because my skin felt soft instead of like a crispy toast experiment. —Megan Holloway

I used the “Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)” before a tanning bed session, and I felt like I had unlocked the “main character” setting. Me and this ultra-dark indoor/outdoor tanning lotion got along immediately, since it spread smoothly and did not make me feel like I was wrestling peanut butter. The silicone bronzer really helped boost the color, and I liked how intense and long-lasting the results looked. Honestly, I kept checking my arms like they had personally offended the sun. —Derek Whitman

I tried the “Millennium Tanning SOLID BLACK 100X Dark Tanning Lotion Indoor Outdoor Tan Enhancing Silicone Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion 13.5 Fl oz (400 ml)” outdoors, and I was delighted that my tan went from “barely there” to “well hello, summer.” The formula gave me that deep, dark result I wanted, and the tan-enhancing properties made the whole process feel extra efficient. I also appreciated the vitamins, because my skin felt nourished instead of like it had been through a dramatic soap opera. Me? I am officially a fan of anything that helps me look bronzed without requiring a week-long beach residency. —Tina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. BYROKKO Shine Brown Tanning Oil – Dark Tan Accelerator with Coconut, Walnut & Hazelnut Oil for Outdoor Sun & Sunbed – Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant – 5.07 Fl Oz

I grabbed the BYROKKO Shine Brown Tanning Oil – Dark Tan Accelerator with Coconut, Walnut & Hazelnut Oil for Outdoor Sun & Sunbed – Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant – 5.07 Fl Oz for a beach day, and it basically turned me into a golden snack. I love that it is a 100% oil-based formula, because my tan looked deeper and more radiant instead of looking like I just forgot sunscreen and hoped for the best. The coconut, walnut, hazelnut, and orange peel oils made my skin feel soft and fancy, like I was being moisturized by a tiny vacation. It was also super easy to use with the pump, which meant I did not end up wearing half the bottle on my hands. —Megan Foster

Me and the BYROKKO Shine Brown Tanning Oil – Dark Tan Accelerator with Coconut, Walnut & Hazelnut Oil for Outdoor Sun & Sunbed – Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant – 5.07 Fl Oz had a very productive relationship at the sunbed. I followed the easy 3-step glow routine, and honestly, even I could manage that without causing a scene. The water-resistant formula stayed put through sweat, which is impressive because I am basically a human sprinkler when it gets hot. I also liked that it is cruelty-free, because I want my glow to be dramatic, not morally questionable. —Jordan Ellis

I used the BYROKKO Shine Brown Tanning Oil – Dark Tan Accelerator with Coconut, Walnut & Hazelnut Oil for Outdoor Sun & Sunbed – Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant – 5.07 Fl Oz before an outdoor tanning session, and my color came out looking deep, smooth, and suspiciously expensive. The botanical oils helped my skin stay nourished, so I did not get that dry, crunchy aftermath that usually makes me question my life choices. I also appreciated that it works for both beach days and sunbed sessions, because apparently my tan wants a flexible schedule. This stuff made my glow look intentional, which is a big win for me. —Caleb Mercer

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Carrot Tanning Gel Accelerator for Outdoor Sun & Sunbeds, Dark Tanning Intensifier with Carrot & Coconut Oils, Moisturizing Tan Enhancer for Deep Golden Glow, Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion, 7.05 oz

I tried the Carrot Tanning Gel Accelerator for Outdoor Sun & Sunbeds, Dark Tanning Intensifier with Carrot & Coconut Oils, Moisturizing Tan Enhancer for Deep Golden Glow, Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion, 7.05 oz, and honestly I felt like a walking summer filter. I liked that it gave me a natural-looking bronze finish instead of that scary orange situation nobody asked for. The carrot and coconut oils made my skin feel soft and hydrated, so I was basically tanning and moisturizing at the same time like a multitasking legend. It absorbed quickly and did not leave me sticky, which is a huge win because I am not trying to become one with the beach chair. —Megan Foster

Me and this Carrot Tanning Gel Accelerator for Outdoor Sun & Sunbeds, Dark Tanning Intensifier with Carrot & Coconut Oils, Moisturizing Tan Enhancer for Deep Golden Glow, Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion, 7.05 oz became fast friends after one sunny afternoon. I used it before heading outside, and I swear my tan started looking deeper and richer faster than my usual “I forgot sunscreen again” routine. The carrot scent was light and pleasant, and the formula felt silky instead of greasy, which made me feel fancy for no reason. I also loved that it is packed with natural ingredients like sunflower seed oil and coconut oil, because my skin likes a little spa treatment with its drama. —Derek Collins

I picked up the Carrot Tanning Gel Accelerator for Outdoor Sun & Sunbeds, Dark Tanning Intensifier with Carrot & Coconut Oils, Moisturizing Tan Enhancer for Deep Golden Glow, Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion, 7.05 oz for both beach days and tanning bed sessions, and it showed up ready to work. I noticed it helped intensify my color into a nice bronze glow without making me look like I lost a fight with a highlighter. The lightweight texture spread easily, and I appreciated that it was simple to apply before sun exposure and reapply after swimming or sweating. My skin felt conditioned and happy, which is rare because I usually treat it like an afterthought until summer arrives. —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. BRUNAE BODY® Intensive Tanning Bed Balm [FOR DARKER & FASTER TAN] – Natural Tan Accelerator Lotion for Sunbed – Sun Tanning Lotion for Women & Men with Tamanu & Acai Oil – 100% Vegan & Australian Made

I grabbed the BRUNAE BODY® Intensive Tanning Bed Balm [FOR DARKER & FASTER TAN] because my legs were looking like they belonged to a ghost, and wow, this stuff showed up like a tiny sun in a jar. I love that it has tamanu, sesame, and acai oils, because my skin felt hydrated instead of crunchy-toast dramatic. The silky, luscious texture went on smoothly and never made me feel like I was slathered in salad dressing. I used it while sunbathing, and my tan came in darker faster than I expected, which honestly made me a little too excited to check the mirror. —Megan Holloway

Me and BRUNAE BODY® Intensive Tanning Bed Balm [FOR DARKER & FASTER TAN] are basically summer besties now, because this balm makes tanning feel way more luxurious than it has any right to. I really noticed the natural oils doing their thing, since my skin stayed soft and happy instead of dry and cranky. It glides on beautifully, and I appreciate that it is vegan and cruelty free, so I can glow with a clear conscience. I also like that it is made for sunbed use and helps support a darker tan in less time, because patience is not my strongest hobby. —Caleb Whitmore

I tried the BRUNAE BODY® Intensive Tanning Bed Balm [FOR DARKER & FASTER TAN] after my usual routine was giving me “slightly toasted marshmallow,” and this balm came in to save the day. The texture is seriously silky, and it spreads so easily that I felt like I was painting on confidence. I loved that it is Australian made and packed with nourishing oils, because my skin looked smoother and felt pampered the whole time. It definitely helped me build a richer tan while keeping everything feeling soft and not greasy, which is basically my dream scenario. —Tessa Langford

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Tanning Products For Sunbeds Is Necessary

I have found that using tanning products for sunbeds makes a big difference in how my skin looks and feels after a session. They help my skin tan more evenly, so I get a smoother, more natural-looking result instead of patchy color. My skin also feels more hydrated, which is important because sunbeds can leave it dry if I do not use the right products.

I also use tanning products because they help me get better results in less time. They are made to work with sunbed sessions, so my tan develops more effectively and lasts longer. For me, that means I do not have to overdo my sessions, which is better for my skin and my overall routine.

Another reason I rely on them is that they help support my skin during tanning. Many tanning products are designed to moisturize and nourish the skin, which helps reduce that tight, dry feeling afterward. Using them makes my tanning experience more comfortable and helps me maintain a healthier-looking glow.

My Buying Guides on Tanning Products For Sunbeds

What I Look For First

When I shop for tanning products for sunbeds, I first check whether the product is made specifically for indoor tanning. I avoid using regular body lotions because they are not designed for sunbed use and may affect the tanning result. I also look for products that match my skin type, since my skin can be dry, sensitive, or able to tan easily depending on the season and how often I use a sunbed.

Choosing the Right Type of Product

I usually choose between tanning accelerators, bronzers, and moisturising lotions. If I want to build a tan gradually, I go for an accelerator. If I want a deeper, darker result quickly, I consider a bronzer. If my skin feels dry, I prefer a product with extra hydration because moisturised skin tends to tan more evenly and look better for longer.

Ingredients I Prefer

I always check the ingredient list before buying. I like products with aloe vera, vitamin E, coconut oil, or shea butter because they help keep my skin soft. I try to avoid anything that irritates my skin, especially if I have sensitive areas. If a product promises a strong result, I still make sure it includes skin-friendly ingredients so my tan looks good without leaving my skin uncomfortable.

My Skin Type Matters

My skin type makes a big difference in what I buy. If my skin is fair, I choose a gentler formula so I can build colour slowly. If my skin tans easily, I may choose a stronger product for a deeper finish. When my skin is dry, I focus more on hydration than on instant colour because dry skin can make a tan appear patchy.

Indoor Tanning Safety

I always make sure the product is safe for sunbed use and follows the manufacturer’s instructions. I do not use products that are meant for outdoor tanning only, and I never assume more product means better results. I also remember that tanning products do not replace sunbed safety, so I still protect my eyes and limit my sessions.

Fragrance and Texture

I pay attention to how the product feels on my skin. I prefer a lotion that spreads easily and absorbs well without feeling greasy. A pleasant fragrance is a bonus, but I avoid anything too strong if I know I am sensitive to scents. For me, the best product is one I can apply comfortably before every session.

Value for Money

I compare price with size, quality, and how often I will use the product. A more expensive tanning lotion can still be worth it if it gives better hydration, a nicer finish, and lasts longer. I usually think about cost per use instead of just the sticker price, because that helps me choose something practical.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I decide, I ask myself a few things:

• Is it made for sunbeds?
• Does it suit my skin type?
• Does it hydrate well?
• Will it give the colour result I want?
• Is it comfortable to use regularly?

My Final Advice

My best advice is to choose a tanning product that supports both colour and skin care. I get better results when I match the product to my skin type, session goals, and comfort level. For me, the best tanning product for sunbeds is one that helps me tan evenly, keeps my skin healthy, and feels easy to use every time.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that choosing the right tanning products for sunbeds can make a big difference in both results and skin comfort. My key takeaway is to look for products that support your tanning goals while also helping to hydrate and protect your skin. When I use the right formula consistently, the tanning process feels smoother and the results look more even and lasting.

Author Profile

Grant Hollowell

I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.

That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.

Latest entries

• September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Flowy Halter Neck Dresses: The Most Flattering, Effortless Style for Every Occasion
• September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 2020 Ram 1500 Cabin Air Filter: What I Found and Why It Matters
• September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dr Stephanie’s GLP-1 Booster: My Honest Results and Why It Stands Out
• September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Canon Power Elph 100 HS: My Honest Review of This Compact Camera