Best Outdoor Tanning Lotion in 2023

As summer approaches, many of us look forward to having fun in the great outdoors and achieving that perfect golden tan. However, it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while also achieving a beautiful, even tan. 

When it comes to achieving a sun-kissed glow, outdoor tanning lotions are a popular choice for many people. These lotions are specifically designed to enhance the tanning process, allowing you to achieve a deeper, more even tan in less time. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which outdoor tanning lotion is the best fit for you.

When choosing an outdoor tanning lotion, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, it’s essential to choose a lotion with a high SPF sunblock to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can be a leading cause of melanoma and other types of skin cancer. Additionally, you’ll want to look for a lotion that is water-resistant and long-lasting, so you don’t have to reapply it frequently.

At the same time, you’ll want to select a lotion that enhances your tan and helps you achieve your desired level of darkness based on your skin type. Some lotions contain bronzing agents and other tanners that provide an instant tan, while others work to enhance your natural skin tone gradually. And finally, you’ll want a lotion that helps retain moisture, which is important for healthy skin care.

Best Outdoor Tanning Lotions

After researching and testing several outdoor tanning lotions from leading brands, we’ve identified the best of the best. Whether you’re a seasoned tanner or new to the game, our top picks will help you achieve a beautiful, long-lasting tan without sacrificing skin health.

Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion

We highly recommend the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion for those who want to achieve a natural, beautiful golden glow without applying any bronzers or skin darkening products.

Pros

• Biosine Complex accelerators speed up the tanning process for quicker results
• Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E for nourished and cleansed skin
• Exotic combination of native oils and Aloe Vera provides ultimate hydration

Cons

• Does not contain sunscreen, so additional sun protection
• The fragrance may be too strong for some users
• May not work as effectively on individuals with fair skin

This tanning intensifier is formulated with Biosine Complex, a proprietary blend of premium ingredients, which prepares your skin for dark color development. 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. The exotic combination of native oils, vital nutrients, and Aloe Vera provides naturally soothing and deeply nourished skin that remains hydrated for long. Available in a delectable Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla fragrance.

Australian Gold’s time-tested formula is designed to be Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Cruelty-Free, while being loaded with the goodness of Kakadu Plums and Safflower Seed Oil for an instant radiant tan. With 4.5 out of 5 stars and over 10,000 ratings, it is a trusted product among tanning enthusiasts. Achieve a beautiful, natural-looking tan with the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion.

Maui Babe Browning Lotion

If you’re looking for a natural-looking tan and a moisturizing effect, the Maui Babe Browning Lotion might just be the product for you.

Pros

• Provides a natural-looking tan
• Moisturizes the skin
• Water-resistant, good if you plan to exercise like swimming, hiking, or biking
• Cons

• May cause you to burn faster
• Strong tropical smell
• Can be greasy on the face

This tanning lotion is all-natural and made with ingredients such as Kukui Nut Oil, Antioxidant Vitamins E, C & A, Kona Coffee Plant Extract, Aloe, Potassium Iodide. It’s also water-resistant and provides a fast, even tan. However, it’s important to note that it’s not a self-tanner and may cause faster burning.

The Maui Babe Browning Lotion is ultra-moisturizing and can leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. However, some users have reported a strong smell and greasiness on the face.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural-looking tan with moisturizing benefits, the Maui Babe Browning Lotion might be worth a try. Just be sure to use sunscreen and follow the instructions carefully.

b.tan Deep Tanning Dry Spray

If you want to achieve a deep and dark tan without spending too much time under the sun, b.tan Deep Tanning Dry Spray is the perfect product for you.

Pros

• Speeds up the tanning process for deeper and darker results
• Packed with ultra moisturizing oils to keep skin hydrated
• 100% vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

• Spray bottle can be irritating
• Self-tanner in the product can turn palms and swimsuit orange if not washed properly
• Strong smell that some may not like

This tanning oil is perfect for those who want to get a deeper and darker tan without having to lay out for hours under the sun. Its tan accelerating actives speed up the tanning process, which means less time in the sun for deeper, darker tanning results. It’s also packed full of ultra moisturizing oils to keep your skin hydrated, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

However, the spray bottle can be a bit irritating, and the self-tanner in the product can turn your palms orange if not washed properly. Additionally, the product has a strong smell that some may not like.

Overall, if you want to achieve a deep and dark tan while keeping your skin moisturized and protected, b.tan Deep Tanning Dry Spray is a great product to try out.

Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion

If you’re looking for a tanning lotion that can help you achieve a natural, dark, and beautiful golden glow, then you should check out the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion.

Pros

• Speeds up the tanning process
• Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E
• Provides ultimate hydration

Cons

• Does not contain sunscreen
• May have a strong smell
• Results may vary depending on skin type

This tanning lotion is formulated with Biosine Complex, a proprietary blend of premium ingredients that prepares your skin for dark color development. It does not contain sunscreen but increases the pigmentation so your skin gets a quicker tan. Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and the goodness of Vitamin E and D, this tanning intensifier fights off free radicals, gently nourishes and cleanses your skin leaving it smooth and fresh.

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, this lotion will leave you smelling great.

Overall, the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion is a great choice for those who want to achieve a natural-looking tan quickly and easily. Just remember to apply sunscreen before going out in the sun.

Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen

We highly recommend the Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen for those who want to achieve a dark, sun-kissed glow while keeping their skin moisturized and protected.

Pros

• The luxurious formula contains skin-loving ingredients that keep your skin ultra-moisturized, soft and glowing.
• The rare blend of nature’s rich tanning oils provides a natural-looking tan.
• The classic coconut fragrance adds an indulgent, sensory experience to your sun care.

Cons

• The low SPF may not provide enough protection for those with fair skin or those who spend extended periods in the sun.
• The lotion may feel greasy or heavy on the skin.
• The price may be higher than other tanning lotions on the market.

The Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen brings an indulgent, sensory experience to your sun care routine. The luxurious formula contains skin-loving ingredients that keep your skin ultra-moisturized, soft and glowing. The rare blend of nature’s rich tanning oils provides a natural-looking tan. The classic coconut fragrance adds an indulgent, sensory experience to your sun care. It’s also widely available. If traveling, you can find it at most tourist shops.

One downside to this product is that the low SPF may not provide enough protection for those with fair skin or those who spend extended periods in the sun. Additionally, the lotion may feel greasy or heavy on the skin, which may not be ideal for those who prefer a lightweight feel. Finally, the price may be higher than other tanning lotions on the market, which may not be ideal for those on a budget.

Overall, the Hawaiian Tropic SPF 4 Sunscreen is an excellent choice for those who want to achieve a natural-looking tan while keeping their skin moisturized and protected.

Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Sun Care Moisturizing Oil

If you’re looking for a tanning product that will give you a deep, dark tan while also keeping your skin moisturized, then Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Sun Care Moisturizing Oil might be the right product for you.

Pros

• A rare blend of nature’s rich tanning oils
• Formulated with exotic moisturizing ingredients
• Contains skin conditioners

Cons

• No SPF protection
• Not suitable for people with sensitive skin
• May leave an oily residue on clothes

This tanning oil is formulated with a rare blend of nature’s rich tanning oils that will help you achieve a deep, dark tan. It also contains exotic moisturizing ingredients that will keep your skin soft and supple, and skin conditioners that will help prevent your skin from drying out.

One of the downsides of this product is that it does not offer any SPF protection, so you will need to apply sunscreen separately if you want to protect your skin from sunburn and other damage. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid using this product as the ingredients could cause irritation. Finally, be aware that this tanning oil may leave an oily residue on clothes. It would be good to seal this product in a ziplock bag if you plan to travel with it for vacations, etc.

In summary, if you’re looking for a tanning oil that will give you a deep, dark tan and keep your skin moisturized, Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Sun Care Moisturizing Oil is worth considering. However, if you have sensitive skin or are looking for a product with SPF protection, you may want to look elsewhere.

b.tan Deep Tanning Dry Spray

If you want to achieve a deep and dark tan without spending too much time under the sun, b.tan Deep Tanning Dry Spray is a great product to try.

Pros

• It contains tan accelerating actives that speed up the tanning process, resulting in a deeper and darker tan in less time.
• The product is packed with ultra moisturizing oils that keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out.
• It is 100% vegan, free of parabens, and cruelty-free, making it a great choice for those who prefer using natural and ethical products.

Cons

• The spray bottle can be a bit difficult to use, and it may take some practice to get the application right.
• The product has a strong scent that some people may find overpowering.
• It may leave stains on clothing or towels, so it’s best to wear dark clothing and avoid contact with fabrics.

If you’re looking for a convenient and effective way to achieve a deep and dark tan, b.tan Deep Tanning Dry Spray is definitely worth considering. Its tan accelerating actives and ultra moisturizing oils make it a great choice for those who want to achieve a beautiful and healthy-looking tan while keeping their skin hydrated and nourished.

B.TAN SPF 7 Deep Tanning Dry Spray | Beach… Please SPF 7 Tanning Oil

If you want to achieve a deep beach bronze with less time in the sun, the b.tan SPF 7 Deep Tanning Dry Spray is worth considering.

Pros

• Includes a touch of self-tan for deeper, darker tanning results
• Enriched with marula + argan oil to deeply nourish your skin
• 100% vegan, free of nasties like parabens and cruelty-free

Cons

• Spray bottle can be a little irritating
• Self-tanner can turn your palms orange if not washed off
• Scent may not be enjoyable for some users

This tanning oil is easy to apply and smells great, like coconut. It immediately made my skin feel smoother, and after using it, I noticed a difference in my tan. However, be sure to not let it sit on your palms since there is a self-tanner in it.

The b.tan SPF 7 Deep Tanning Dry Spray is perfect for when you want that deep beach bronze. It includes a touch of self-tan to give that tan an extra kick, which means less time in the sun for deeper, darker tanning results. Additionally, it is enriched with marula + argan oil to deeply nourish your skin. It is 100% vegan, free of nasties like parabens, and cruelty-free.

Overall, if you’re looking for a tanning oil that will give you a deep beach bronze with less time in the sun, the b.tan SPF 7 Deep Tanning Dry Spray is worth trying.

Australian Gold Bronzing Intensifier Dry Oil Spray

If you want to achieve a summer-ready body with a natural-looking glow, Australian Gold Bronzing Intensifier Dry Oil Spray is a great product to consider.

Pros

• Gives your skin a beautiful golden glow with immediate bronzers such as Melanin, Caramel, Walnut Shell, and Carrot Oil.
• Convenient to use with its lightweight, non-greasy, and quick-absorbing dry oil spray bottle.
• Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera to deeply nourish and cleanse your skin while providing ultimate hydration and moisturization.

Cons

• Does not contain sunscreen, so you will need to apply a separate sunscreen product.
• May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin due to the presence of several essential oils.
• The scent may be too strong for some people.

Australian Gold Bronzing Intensifier Dry Oil Spray is a great way to get a natural-looking tan without spending hours in the sun. The lightweight, non-greasy, and quick-absorbing formula makes it convenient to use, and the immediate bronzers impart an instant golden glow to your skin. Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera, this oil spray gently nourishes and deeply moisturizes your skin, leaving it soft and supple.

One of the best things about this product is its signature Cocoa Dreams fragrance, which is a delectable mix of Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla scents that will make you feel like you are on the beach. However, some people may find the scent too strong.

Overall, Australian Gold Bronzing Intensifier Dry Oil Spray is a great product to consider if you are looking for a quick and easy way to get a natural-looking tan. Just remember to apply a separate sunscreen product to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil

We recommend purchasing the Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil if you’re looking for a lightweight tanning lotion that will give you a soft and radiant look.

Pros

• The exotic island botanicals and rich oils in the formula provide nourishing antioxidants that help to soothe and pamper your skin.
• The broad-spectrum UVA or UVB sunscreens protect your skin from harmful sun rays, which makes it safe to use.
• The lightweight feel of the lotion makes it easy to apply and absorb into your skin.

Cons

• The SPF 6 protection may not be enough for people with fair skin or those who are prone to sunburns.
• The oil may leave a greasy feeling on your skin, which can be uncomfortable for some people.
• The spray pump may not work properly, making it difficult to apply the lotion evenly.

The Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil is a perfect choice for those who want to achieve a natural-looking tan. The formula is infused with exotic island botanicals and rich oils that provide nourishing antioxidants to soothe and pamper your skin. The broad-spectrum UVA or UVB sunscreens protect your skin from harmful sun rays, making it safe to use. The lightweight feel of the lotion makes it easy to apply and absorb into your skin, giving you a soft and radiant look.

However, the SPF 6 protection may not be enough for people with fair skin types or those who are prone to sunburns. The oil may leave a greasy feeling on your skin, which can be uncomfortable for some people. Additionally, the spray pump may not work properly, making it difficult to apply the lotion evenly. Despite these drawbacks, the Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tanning Oil is still a great option for those who want to achieve a beautiful and natural-looking tan.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best outdoor tanning lotion, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

SPF Level

The SPF level of the tanning lotion is one of the most important factors to consider. The SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well the lotion will protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The higher the SPF level, the more protection the lotion will provide. It is recommended to choose a tanning lotion with an SPF of at least 30.

Moisturizing Properties

Tanning can dry out your skin, so it’s important to choose a lotion that has moisturizing properties. Whether the product is gel, cream, or oil-based, look for ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil, which can help keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry and flaky.

Bronzing Effect

Many outdoor tanning lotions come with a bronzing effect, which can help enhance your tan and give you a sun-kissed glow. If you’re looking for a lotion with a bronzing effect, make sure to choose one that matches your skin tone and blends well.

Water Resistance

If you plan on swimming or sweating while wearing your tanning lotion, it’s important to choose one that is water-resistant. Look for a lotion that is labeled “water-resistant” or “waterproof” and make sure to reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Application Method

There are different types of tanning lotions available, including sprays, lotions, and oils. Consider which application method will work best for you and your skin type. For example, if you have dry skin, a lotion or oil may be more hydrating than a spray.

Risky Ingredients To Watch Out For

Alcohol may kill bacteria and preserve organic ingredients, but it can also dry out sensitive skin. And sodium benzoate, while relatively safe on the skin, can become carcinogenic when ingested or combined with vitamin C. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), parabens are chemical preservatives commonly added to cosmetic products, like lotions. You can also find them in preserved foods and canned beverages. 

The U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to come to an official conclusion about the potential negative side effects of parabens in consumer products. Still, several types of parabens have long been outlawed throughout many other parts of the world, including the European Union. 

The primary concern about parabens is that a person’s body may respond to them like estrogen. Excess estrogen consumption and production have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Still, more research is needed to confirm or deny the carcinogenic effects of common parabens.

Another potentially troublesome ingredient included in most tanning lotions is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Though this chemical has been FDA-approved for more than forty years, it has recently come under fire from medical experts.

DHA, also called glycerol, is a chemical that reacts with amino acids found in dead skin cells. It’s the primary ingredient in tanning lotion that causes a browning effect. 

Most of this stuff sits on the upper layer of your skin (the epidermis). But some is absorbed into the deeper layers (dermis), thus potentially entering your bloodstream. But perhaps the most worrying aspect of DHA is that it produces free radicals that can attack living squamous cells. 

Squamous cells constitute the middle and outer layers of the skin, and they are involved in a prevalent form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma. 

Over this time, this can lead to premature wrinkling and widespread cellular death. Because free radicals are closely linked to cancer risks, some sunbathers may prefer to avoid DHA altogether. 

Still, many tanning lotions with DHA only contain minimal amounts, and it’s often counterbalanced by antioxidant-rich ingredients. Remember, antioxidants fight free radicals, helping to keep the body’s cells healthy and in excellent shape.

Consequently, choosing a tanning lotion that contains DHA may not be harmful, especially if it’s mostly made of organic, antioxidant-rich ingredients. Still, you’ll need to employ your judgment to decide what’s safe and appropriate for your skin and body. 

By considering these factors, you can choose the best outdoor tanning lotion for your needs and ensure that your skin stays protected and hydrated while you enjoy the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tanning lotion to get dark fast for outdoor?

When it comes to getting a dark tan fast, we recommend using something with a high level of DHA (Dihydroxyacetone). DHA is a colorless sugar that reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin to produce a natural-looking tan. Our top pick for the best tanning lotion to get dark fast for outdoor is Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion.

What’s the best tanning lotion to use outside?

The best tanning lotion to use outside is one that provides both sun protection and accelerates the tanning process. We recommend using a tanning lotion with an SPF of at least 30 that also contains natural oils and vitamins to nourish and hydrate your skin. Our top pick for the best tanning lotion to use outside is Maui Babe Browning Lotion.

What is the best tanning lotion to get tan fast?

To get a tan fast, we recommend using a tanning lotion with a high level of DHA and natural oils that help to speed up the tanning process. Our top pick for the best tanning lotion to get tan fast is Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion.

What outdoor tanning oil gets you the darkest?

If you’re looking for an outdoor tanning oil that will give you the darkest tan, we recommend using a tanning oil with a high level of DHA and natural oils. Our top pick for the outdoor tanning oil that gets you the darkest is Banana Boat UltraMist Deep Tanning Dry Oil.

Which is the best outdoor tanning lotion with SPF?

When it comes to finding the best outdoor tanning lotion with SPF, we recommend using a lotion with an SPF of at least 30 that also contains natural oils and vitamins to nourish and hydrate your skin. Our top pick for the best outdoor tanning lotion with SPF is Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Sunscreen Lotion.

Which is the best outdoor tanning lotion with bronzer?

If you’re looking for an outdoor tanning lotion with bronzer, we recommend using a lotion with a natural bronzer that will give you an instant glow while also helping to accelerate the tanning process. Our top pick for the best outdoor tanning lotion with bronzer is Australian Gold Sinfully Black 15x Deep Dark Bronzing Tanning Lotion.

How can I avoid the risk of skin cancer while tanning?

One of the leading causes of skin cancer is over-exposure to UV rays. This can lead to a heightened risk of Basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that arises from the basal cells, which are located in the epidermis, the skin’s lowest layer. It is the most common form of skin cancer. This cancer type is usually caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from direct sunlight or tanning beds. The best way to protect your skin from the aging effects of the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer is to use a lotion with SPF.