Getting a beautiful tan doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With tanning lotions like Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion and Jergens Natural Glow Self Tanner Body Lotion, you can enjoy glowing skin without spending a fortune. These products support natural color development while nourishing and moisturizing skin, making them top picks for anyone looking to get that sun-kissed glow responsibly and affordably.
Whether you prefer a rapid tan intensifier or a gradual self-tanner, this list covers a variety of textures and benefits suited for different skin types and tanning goals. Let’s dive into the best tanning lotions under $20 that blend quality with value.
1. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion
What it is: A premium formula that speeds up the tanning process, delivering an intense, dark color with the nourishment of tea tree oil and aloe vera.
Best for: Those seeking a rapid tan and who want skin that feels hydrated and smooth.
Texture: Lightweight lotion that absorbs quickly and leaves a pleasant scent.
- Speeds up tanning for a natural, beautiful golden glow
- Enriched with antioxidants like Vitamin E and tea tree oil
- Hydrates and soothes skin with native oils and aloe vera
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2. Jergens Natural Glow Self Tanner Body Lotion
What it is: A gradual self-tanning daily moisturizer that enhances and deepens your natural skin tone over time.
Best for: Those who prefer a slow, streak-free tan and daily hydration for their skin.
Texture: Smooth lotion that applies evenly with a fresh scent.
- Provides gradual, natural-looking color buildup
- Infused with hydrating coconut oil and antioxidants
- Leaves skin feeling moisturized and refreshed
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3. European Gold Dark Star 6000X Ultra-Dark Tanning Lotion
What it is: An ultra-dark tanning lotion with a triple bronze formula that provides long-lasting, deep color and skin nourishment.
Best for: Users seeking a professional salon-quality, intense tan with skin-conditioning benefits.
Texture: Soft emulsion that absorbs easily without leaving residue.
- Elite Dark Triple Bronzer complex for instant and gradual darkening
- Infused with fruit extracts for a radiant skin tone
- Vegan and cruelty-free with skin-firming ingredients
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4. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer
What it is: A dark tanning accelerator lotion with instant bronzer, designed to intensify your bronze glow and deepen your tan.
Best for: Those aiming for a darker, deeper tan with skin that stays nourished and hydrated.
Texture: Smooth, quick-absorbing lotion with a refreshing coconut-orange-vanilla scent.
- Contains antioxidant-rich Kakadu Plum and tea tree oil
- Provides long-lasting tan development with Biosine Complex
- Delivers hydration and essential nutrients for soft skin
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5. Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion SPF 15
What it is: A lightweight tanning sunscreen lotion with SPF 15 that protects skin while helping maintain a radiant tan.
Best for: Those looking for sun protection alongside moisturizing and tanning benefits.
Texture: Non-greasy, fast-absorbing lotion that feels light on skin.
- Offers water resistance and broad-spectrum SPF 15 protection
- Keeps skin moisturized during sun exposure
- Free from dyes, PABA, and oxybenzone
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How to Choose the Right Option for Your Skin
- Consider your tanning goal: Choose a rapid intensifier for quick color or a gradual self-tanner for a subtle build-up.
- Check for hydration benefits: Look for ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or vitamin E to keep your skin moisturized.
- Think about sun protection: If you’ll be outdoors, consider options with SPF like Coppertone for added skin care.
- Match your skin type: Sensitive skin benefits from soothing ingredients such as tea tree oil or fruit extracts.
- Fragrance preferences: Some lotions have signature scents, so pick one that you enjoy applying daily.
FAQ
Can I use tanning lotions on sensitive skin?
Yes, but it’s best to choose formulas with soothing and natural ingredients like aloe vera and tea tree oil that help calm the skin.
How often should I apply these tanning lotions?
For gradual tanners like Jergens, daily use is recommended for best results. Rapid intensifiers can be used before sun exposure as directed.
Do these lotions provide sun protection?
Most tanning lotions do not contain SPF unless specified, like Coppertone Tanning Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 15, so use sunscreen separately if needed.
Will tanning lotions moisturize my skin?
Many tanning lotions include moisturizing ingredients such as vitamin E and natural oils, which help keep your skin hydrated while developing a tan.
