For those new to tanning lotions, it’s best to begin with gentle, moisturizing formulas that nourish your skin while enhancing your natural glow. Brands like Beauty by Earth and Devoted Creations offer excellent options that combine natural ingredients and skin-friendly formulations.
Let’s explore five beginner-friendly tanning lotions that provide hydration, easy application, and a beautiful tan.
1. Beauty by Earth Self Tanner

What it is: A moisturizing self-tanning lotion made with natural and organic ingredients to provide a streak-free, natural glow.
Best for: All skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Texture: Lightweight lotion that absorbs quickly without streaks.
- Delivers a natural-looking sun-kissed glow without orange tones
- Made with organic aloe vera, shea butter, and botanical extracts
- Suitable for both face and body for an even tan
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2. Jergens Natural Glow In Shower Lotion

What it is: A sunless tanning moisturizer to be used on wet skin in the shower for hassle-free, gradual color.
Best for: Medium to deep skin tones seeking easy, streak-free tanning.
Texture: Smooth, water-activated lotion designed for in-shower use.
- Creates a natural-looking gradual tan with no wait time
- Glides on smoothly and absorbs quickly
- Light, fresh scent that keeps skin feeling clean
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3. Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion SPF 15

What it is: A lightweight moisturizing sunscreen with SPF 15 that helps you achieve a radiant tan safely.
Best for: Outdoor lovers looking to protect skin while tanning.
Texture: Non-greasy lotion that absorbs easily.
- Provides broad spectrum sun protection with SPF 15
- Water-resistant formula for up to 80 minutes
- Keeps skin feeling moisturized and fresh
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4. B.TAN b.tan UV Tanning Bed Lotion

What it is: A tanning bed lotion with intense bronzing boosters designed to accelerate and deepen tanning results.
Best for: Experienced tanners wanting the darkest possible tan indoors or outdoors.
Texture: Rich lotion that moisturizes deeply.
- Contains x4000 tanning intensifiers for dark results
- Infused with peptides and acai berry for skin nourishment
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and made in the USA
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5. Devoted Creations Famous Faces Skin Perfecting Hypoallergenic Facial Tanning Lotion

What it is: A hypoallergenic facial tanning lotion blended with skin-firming and anti-aging ingredients.
Best for: Sensitive skin and those wanting a natural facial tan with extra skin care benefits.
Texture: Smooth lotion with a light palm garden fragrance.
- Helps improve skin firmness and fills fine lines
- Contains Matrixyl and Vitamin A for healthy skin
- Gentle hypoallergenic formula for sensitive skin
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How to Choose the Right Option for Your Skin
- Identify your skin type: Choose moisturizing, gentle formulas like Beauty by Earth if you have sensitive or dry skin.
- Consider desired tan intensity: For gradual tanning, pick products like Jergens In Shower Lotion; for darker tanning, consider accelerators like B.TAN.
- Think about application style: Lotions are traditional, while in-shower options provide quick, no-wait tanning.
- Sun protection needs: If tanning outdoors, select products with SPF like Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen.
- Face vs. body: Use specially formulated facial tanning lotions like Devoted Creations for your face to avoid irritation.
FAQ
Q: Can I use the same tanning lotion on my face and body?
A: It’s best to use products designed specifically for the face, like Devoted Creations, as they are gentler and formulated to avoid clogging pores.
Q: How soon will I see results from gradual tanning lotions?
A: Gradual tanners, such as Jergens Natural Glow, typically show a natural-looking color within a few days and deepen with continued use.
Q: Will self-tanning lotions leave streaks?
A: Choosing moisturizing and well-formulated lotions like Beauty by Earth’s can help ensure streak-free, even application.
Q: Do tanning lotions protect against sun damage?
A: Most self-tanners do not provide sun protection. For outdoor tanning, use products with SPF, like Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen.
