10 Best Designer Skin Tanning Lotions for a Radiant, Sun-Kissed Glow
You want a tanning lotion that boosts your skin’s radiance while keeping it hydrated and smooth. Designer Skin lotions like Fever 85X and Nautilus offer deep, streak-free tans with added moisturizing and anti-aging benefits. Australian Gold Obvious delivers immediate dark color and lightweight hydration, while Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses nourishes and enhances tattoo vibrancy. Each lotion balances bronzing power with skin-loving ingredients for that perfect sun-kissed glow. Explore these picks to find your ideal tanning match.
Key Takeaways
- Designer Skin offers a variety of tanning lotions like Fever 85X and Nautilus for deep, streak-free, and radiant indoor tans.
- Products like 24 Karat White Gold provide skin-brightening and hydrating benefits suitable for sensitive skin.
- Lotions such as Captivate and Misbehaved deliver gradual, natural-looking color with added skin care and antioxidant protection.
- Formulas often include premium ingredients like DHA bronzers, Bakuchiol, avocado oil, and charcoal for enhanced hydration and skin health.
- Many Designer Skin lotions feature pleasant tropical or floral fragrances and are designed to prevent streaks and odor after tanning.
Australian Gold Obvious 18X Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion (13.5 oz)
- 18X Extra Attitude Bronzer: Achieve deep, dark, and flawless color instantly with our potent bronzing formula, specifically designed for tanning bed enthusiasts.
- Color Amplified Complex: Boost your natural tan with powerful ingredients like DOPA and Tyrosine, essential for melanin production, ensuring faster and richer color development every time you use the tanning bed.
- Hydrating Jelly Berry Blend: Experience lightweight, lasting hydration with a blend of vitamins and antioxidants, providing immediate relief to dehydrated skin and enhancing your post-tanning glow.
- Invigorating Citrus Fragrance: Enjoy a refreshing Sparkling Citrus fragrance, adding a delightful sensory experience to your bronzing routine. Size 13.5 fluid ounces
If you’re someone who craves a deep, immediate tan, the Australian Gold Obvious 18X Bronzer Tanning Bed Lotion is your go-to. This 13.5 oz lotion packs an 18X Extra Attitude Bronzer that delivers dark, rich color right away. I love how the Color Amplified Complex speeds up melanin production with DOPA and Tyrosine, enhancing my natural glow. The Hydrating Jelly Berry Blend keeps my skin nourished without feeling heavy. Plus, the sparkling citrus scent makes tanning more invigorating. It absorbs quickly and avoids streaks, though watch out for packaging issues that can cause spills. Overall, it’s worth the $75 price tag.
Best For: Individuals seeking a fast-acting, deep tanning lotion with hydrating benefits and a refreshing scent for tanning bed use.
Pros:
- Provides immediate, deep, and dark color with 18X Extra Attitude Bronzer.
- Contains Color Amplified Complex to accelerate natural melanin production.
- Lightweight hydration with nourishing vitamins and antioxidants in the Jelly Berry Blend.
Cons:
- Packaging issues may lead to product spillage.
- Higher price point ($75) might not suit all budgets.
- Limited to tanning bed use; not formulated for outdoor sun tanning.
Designer Skin Fever 85X Bronzed Beauty DHA Bronzer Tanning Lotion -13.5 oz
- Lotion Is Shrink Wraped and has a foam lining to prevent damage and leaks. The lotion is to be used within 18 months once it is opend. The botton of the bottle has a producttion date printed under the base
For anyone seeking a tanning lotion that combines instant color with long-lasting skin benefits, Designer Skin Fever 85X Bronzed Beauty DHA Bronzer is a standout choice. Its 85X Bronzed Beauty Blend delivers a cool-toned glow immediately, while DHA gradually deepens your tan. I love the White Peach Oasis fragrance, which stays fresh thanks to the ATO Inhibitor. Plus, it hydrates with ceramides and sodium PCA, and fights aging with collagen peptides. The lightweight silicone blend guarantees a streak-free finish. Just exfoliate beforehand, apply in circular motions, and wait 4-6 hours for full color. It’s a bit pricey but worth it.
Best For: individuals seeking a high-quality tanning lotion that provides both instant cool-toned color and gradual DHA tanning with added skincare benefits.
Pros:
- Provides immediate and gradual bronzing with a unique 85X Bronzed Beauty Blend.
- Hydrates and improves skin barrier with ceramides and sodium PCA.
- Lightweight silicone formula ensures streak-free, smooth application.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some other tanning lotions.
- Requires careful application to avoid streaking, especially on the face.
- Needs exfoliation 24 hours prior and a waiting period of 4-6 hours for full color development.
Designer Skin 24 Karat White Gold 24X White Bronzer Tanning Lotion 13.5 oz
I’m drawn to the Designer Skin 24 Karat White Gold 24X White Bronzer Tanning Lotion because it’s perfect for anyone who wants a luxurious tan with a radiant glow. This lotion brightens your complexion with Ultra-Refined Gold that reflects light and blurs imperfections. It combines DHA, Erythrulose, and natural extracts to boost color development while hydrating with Turmeric, Hyaluronic Acid, and Squalane. Eucalyptus Water supports skin barrier health, and the rich berry fragrance makes application enjoyable. Though some users report mixed results, I appreciate how it prevents clothing stains and suits sensitive skin, making it a standout tanning choice.
Best For: individuals seeking a luxurious, radiant tan with skin-brightening benefits and hydration, especially those with sensitive skin looking to avoid clothing stains.
Pros:
- Brightens complexion and blurs imperfections with Ultra-Refined Gold.
- Hydrates and improves skin elasticity using Turmeric, Hyaluronic Acid, and Squalane.
- Pleasant rich berry fragrance and suitable for sensitive skin without staining clothes.
Cons:
- Some users experience little to no tanning results.
- Mixed reviews on the scent, with some finding it unpleasant.
- May not deliver consistent tanning effects for all skin types.
Designer Skin Captivate Enticing Natural Bronzer Tanning Lotion 13.5 oz
You’ll love the Designer Skin Captivate Enticing Natural Bronzer Tanning Lotion if you want a gradual, natural-looking tan with a radiant glow. This 13.5 oz lotion features a Radiant Blush Blend that gives your skin a rosy, dazzling finish. I’m impressed by its Diamond Luster, which adds a subtle opalescent shine, and the Entice Me blend of Vitamin C, Caffeine, and Witch Hazel that tones and supports collagen. The Tropical Bliss scent is a revitalizing mix of papaya, passionfruit, and jasmine. Plus, antioxidants keep my skin hydrated and protected, leaving it silky smooth after every use.
Best For: individuals seeking a gradual, natural-looking tan with added skincare benefits and a pleasant tropical fragrance.
Pros:
- Provides a radiant, rosy glow with Diamond Luster for enhanced skin shine.
- Contains antioxidants and toning ingredients like Vitamin C, Caffeine, and Witch Hazel for skin hydration and collagen support.
- Features a refreshing Tropical Bliss scent that users find enjoyable and uplifting.
Cons:
- Gradual tanning effect may require multiple applications for desired color intensity.
- The fragrance, while pleasant to many, may not suit those sensitive to scented lotions.
- May be less effective for those looking for an immediate or very dark tan.
Designer Skin Nautilus Tanning Lotion 13.5 oz
- Designer Skin Nautilus Tanning Lotion: Advanced Bronzing Technology: Combines natural and DHA bronzers for a rich, even tan that deepens over time. Size: 13 ounces
- Hydrating and Anti-Aging Formula: Enriched with exotic oils, antioxidants, and firming agents to nourish and rejuvenate skin.
- Streak-Free and Indoor Safe: Specifically formulated for tanning beds, ensuring a flawless, streak-free application every time.
- Fresh, Tropical-Inspired Scent: Lightly scented to leave your skin feeling refreshed and luxurious after every use.
- Non-Perishable with PAO Dating: Bottles are marked with a batch number that is not an expiration date. Nautilus uses the Period After Opening (PAO symbol) method to ensure the lotion remains safe and effective when stored properly and used within the recommended timeframe after opening.
Those who crave a rich, even tan without the dreaded orange hue will find Designer Skin Nautilus Tanning Lotion a perfect match. This 13.5 oz formula uses advanced bronzing technology combining natural and DHA bronzers, delivering a deep, streak-free tan that develops beautifully over time. I love how it hydrates and firms my skin with exotic oils and antioxidants, while also helping reduce fine lines. The tropical scent adds a revitalizing touch, though it’s a bit strong for some. Just remember to wipe your hands after applying to avoid staining. It’s ideal for regular indoor tanning sessions.
Best For: Individuals seeking a deep, even indoor tan with added skin hydration and anti-aging benefits.
Pros:
- Provides a rich, streak-free tan without orange tones.
- Contains exotic oils and antioxidants for skin hydration and firming.
- Light tropical scent adds a refreshing aroma.
Cons:
- Scent may be too strong or unpleasant for some users.
- Requires wiping hands after application to avoid staining.
- Some users may experience mixed results with fragrance preference.
Designer Skin Visionary 13.5 Ounce
- Dark Tanning Intensifier combines Tyrosine with a powerful bronzing Peptide to promote a natural glow and uniform color
- Ethereal Moisture Veil drenches the skin in a layer of hydration that feels exceptionally lightweight and luxurious as it work to defend against free radicals
- Fragrance: White Sands
Designer Skin Visionary 13.5 Ounce suits anyone aiming for a deep, natural tan without shimmer, thanks to its powerful blend of Tyrosine and bronzing peptides. I love how the Ethereal Moisture Veil offers lightweight hydration while protecting against free radicals. The White Sands fragrance is pleasant and subtle, never overpowering. Users, including myself, notice a richer, more uniform tan, especially if you have pale skin. Applying it 30 minutes before tanning and waiting an hour to shower maximizes results. While some find better deals elsewhere, I’d repurchase Designer Skin Visionary for its impressive tanning boost and smooth, natural finish.
Best For: individuals with pale skin seeking a deep, natural tan without shimmer who want lightweight hydration and antioxidant protection during tanning.
Pros:
- Enhances tanning results with a powerful blend of Tyrosine and bronzing peptides for a uniform, natural glow.
- Lightweight Ethereal Moisture Veil hydrates skin and defends against free radicals.
- Pleasant White Sands fragrance that is subtle and non-overpowering.
Cons:
- Some users find better pricing from other sellers.
- Requires proper application timing (30 minutes before tanning, wait an hour to shower) for best results.
- May not be ideal for those wanting a shimmer effect in their tanning lotion.
Australian Gold Designer Skin Grand Affair Quadruple Bronzing DHA Bronzer Tanning Lotion (13.5 oz) with Worship Worthy Packet (0.5 fl oz)
- Four Grand Bronzing Blend
- Rich Glow
- Affluent Finish
- ATO Defense
- Pear Affair Fragrance
If you’re someone who values a rich, gradual tan with a luxurious feel, the Australian Gold Designer Skin Grand Affair Quadruple Bronzing DHA Bronzer Tanning Lotion is made for you. This 13.5 oz lotion combines four bronzers—including DHA and Erythrulose—with avocado oil and probiotics to hydrate and smooth skin. I love its pear affair scent and how the silicone blend leaves my skin silky. The included Worship Worthy Packet is a nice bonus. Plus, ATO Defense keeps odors at bay, so my tan stays fresh. It’s perfect if you want a natural glow without salon prices.
Best For: individuals seeking a gradual, rich tan with hydrating benefits and a pleasant fragrance without the expense of salon tanning.
Pros:
- Contains a blend of four bronzers for warm, natural-looking undertones suitable for all skin types.
- Includes moisturizing ingredients like avocado oil and probiotics for smooth, hydrated skin.
- Features ATO Defense technology to reduce after-tan odors, keeping skin fresh.
Cons:
- Some users find the color intensity less compared to other products in the same line.
- Gradual tanning effect may require multiple applications to achieve desired depth.
- Silicone blend might not be preferred by those who dislike a silky or slightly heavy lotion finish.
Designer Skin LVX Tanning Lotion 13.5 fl oz
- Exclusive Elite Elixir: Infused with Bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, this elixir reduces oxidative stress, minimizes dryness, and boosts radiance. Enhanced with Charcoal and Caffeine, it supports skin tonicity while detoxifying and rejuvenating for a smooth, sleek appearance.
- Ultra-Selective Silicone: Utilizes three luxurious silicones to provide triple moisturizing power, maintaining color while remaining lightweight and breathable. This blend ensures skin feels silky and delivers an optical blurring effect for a flawless finish.
- Embellished Tattoo Protection: Incorporates a blend of natural emollients rich in lauric, myristic, and oleic fatty acids with Murumuru Seed Butter to condition and moisturize, enhancing vibrant ink colors and offering protection.
- Vitamin Vitality Mix: Combines essential vitamins B, C, and E to nourish, soften, and smooth the skin. This antioxidant-rich blend protects against environmental damage and maintains a healthy, youthful appearance.
I know how important it is to find a tanning lotion that not only deepens your color but also cares for your skin’s health. Designer Skin LVX Tanning Lotion delivers just that with its Elite Elixir featuring Bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative that reduces oxidative stress and dryness. Infused with charcoal and caffeine, it detoxifies and firms your skin while its ultra-selective silicones provide triple moisturizing power and a flawless optical blur. Plus, it protects tattoos with nourishing emollients and Murumuru Seed Butter. With added vitamins B, C, and E, it nourishes and shields your skin for a radiant, youthful glow.
Best For: individuals seeking a tanning lotion that enhances color while deeply moisturizing, protecting tattoos, and promoting overall skin health with natural and antioxidant-rich ingredients.
Pros:
- Contains Bakuchiol for reducing oxidative stress and dryness, improving skin radiance.
- Includes charcoal and caffeine to detoxify and firm the skin.
- Provides triple moisturizing with ultra-selective silicones and protects tattoos with nourishing emollients and Murumuru Seed Butter.
Cons:
- May be more expensive compared to basic tanning lotions due to its premium ingredients.
- The presence of silicones might not appeal to those preferring completely silicone-free skincare.
- Some users might be sensitive or allergic to natural extracts like Bakuchiol or Murumuru Seed Butter.
Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion, 13.5 oz
- ✅ Ultra-Darkening Skin Hydrating Intensifier: Contains coconut milk, coconut oil, and cocoa butter to improve skin hydration. Delivers a dark golden tan without the use of bronzing agents.
- ✅ Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula: Helps prolong the life and radiance of your tattoos and tanning results.
- ✅ Quad Tyrosine Blend & Melano Bronze: Stimulates and increases melanin formation to accelerate the tanning process.
- ✅ Coconut Paradise Fragrance: An intoxicating light coconut fragrance with a faint scent of vanilla will make you dream of a day in paradise.
- ✅ Ed Hardy tanning products are part of the Tanovations company. The Ed Hardy logo was replaced by the Tanovations logo, which has a palm tree.
You’ll love the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion if you want a rich, ultra-dark tan that keeps your skin hydrated without relying on bronzing agents. This 13.5 oz lotion blends coconut milk, coconut oil, and cocoa butter to deeply moisturize while Quad Tyrosine Blend and Melano Bronze accelerate melanin production for a stunning golden glow. Plus, it protects your tattoos, preserving their vibrancy alongside your tan. The light coconut and vanilla fragrance adds a tropical touch, making every application feel like a mini getaway. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a radiant, sun-kissed look with lasting hydration.
Best For: individuals seeking a deep, ultra-dark tan with intense hydration and tattoo protection without the use of bronzing agents.
Pros:
- Contains coconut milk, coconut oil, and cocoa butter for superior skin hydration.
- Accelerates melanin production with Quad Tyrosine Blend and Melano Bronze for a natural golden glow.
- Protects and preserves the vibrancy of tattoos while tanning.
Cons:
- Does not contain bronzing agents, so immediate color development is not visible.
- The fragrance may be too light or subtle for those who prefer stronger scents.
- Limited to 13.5 oz size, which may require frequent repurchasing for regular users.
Designer Skin Misbehaved 70X Color Frenzy Fusion Tanning Bed Lotion, 13.5 fl oz
- Designer Skin MISBEHAVED Bronzer 13.5 oz Tanning Bed Lotion for Indoor or Outdoor Sun Tanning. Intense, Long-Lasting Color: Achieve dramatic, immediate color with Designer Skin’s 70X Color Frenzy Fusion and High Key Bronzing Blend, providing a deep tan that continues to develop for hours after tanning.
- Radiant and Glowing Skin: The Real Reflection Complex delivers a subtle radiance, adding dimension and a luminous glow to your skin, making your tan look naturally flawless.
- Healthy and Balanced Complexion: Improve your skin’s microbiome harmony with the Microbiome Balancer, promoting a more radiant, balanced, and healthy-looking complexion.
- Real Reflection Complex: Enhance your glow for an extra touch of glam. Precision Perfecting Silicone: Achieve skin perfection. Fragrance: Strawberry Pear Daiquiri: Indulge in a delightful scent that complements your bold look.
- PLEASE NOTE THE NUMBER ON THE BOTTOM OF THE BOTTLE IS NOT AN EXPIRATION DATE. IT IS A BATCH NUMBER FOR MANUFACTURING PURPOSES. Designer Skin uses the Period After Opening method required for all cosmetics with shelf life. Your item is good for 18M (18 Months) after first opening. Store in a cool place.
For anyone chasing a deep, dramatic tan that keeps developing long after you step out of the bed, Designer Skin Misbehaved 70X Color Frenzy Fusion Tanning Bed Lotion is a perfect match. It combines powerful DHA bronzers with a High Key Bronzing Blend to deliver intense color that deepens over time. The Real Reflection Complex adds a radiant glow, while the Microbiome Balancer supports healthy skin. I love the Precision Perfecting Silicone for a smooth finish, and the Strawberry Pear Daiquiri scent makes tanning enjoyable. Just remember to store it cool and use within 18 months after opening for best results.
Best For: Those seeking a deep, long-lasting indoor or outdoor tan with added skin radiance and a smooth finish.
Pros:
- Provides intense, dramatic color development that continues hours after application.
- Enhances skin glow and supports a balanced complexion through Real Reflection Complex and Microbiome Balancer.
- Pleasant Strawberry Pear Daiquiri fragrance and smooth texture thanks to Precision Perfecting Silicone.
Cons:
- Requires storage in a cool place and careful attention to the 18-month use period after opening.
- May not be suitable for individuals sensitive to fragrances or silicone-based products.
- No explicit SPF protection, so not ideal as a standalone outdoor sunscreen.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Designer Skin Tanning Lotion
When choosing a designer skin tanning lotion, you’ll want to evaluate how it matches your skin type and the bronzing technology it uses. Don’t forget to check its hydration benefits and how pleasant the fragrance feels to you. Also, pay attention to how easily it applies and absorbs for the best results.
Skin Type Compatibility
Although choosing the right designer skin tanning lotion might seem straightforward, understanding your skin type is crucial to achieving the best results without irritation. Different lotions contain ingredients tailored to dry, oily, or sensitive skin, so pick one that suits your needs. If you have dry skin, look for lotions with moisturizing agents like hyaluronic acid or nourishing oils to keep your skin hydrated and prevent flaking. For sensitive skin, opt for dermatologist-tested, paraben-free formulas to avoid reactions. Fair-skinned individuals should choose gradual tanning lotions to avoid orange tones and uneven color. Also, consider your natural undertones—cool, warm, or neutral—to select a lotion that enhances your tan while keeping it natural. Matching your lotion to your skin type guarantees a radiant, flawless glow.
Bronzing Technology Used
Since bronzing technology varies widely, understanding its components can help you choose a tanning lotion that delivers the perfect color and skin benefits. Many lotions use a blend of instant bronzers like DHA and Erythrulose, giving you immediate color and a gradual darkening effect. Look for formulas with natural enhancers such as Tyrosine and Melano Bronze, which boost melanin production for a deeper, longer-lasting tan. Advanced blends, like the Age Rebellion Complex, also improve skin texture and reduce aging signs while tanning. Proprietary mixes, such as the 70X Color Frenzy Fusion, intensify color development, offering dramatic results. Additionally, some lotions include lightweight silicones to guarantee smooth, streak-free application, so you get flawless, radiant skin every time.
Hydration and Moisturizing
Bronzing technology sets the foundation for a stunning tan, but hydration plays a key role in how your skin looks and feels throughout the process. When choosing a designer skin tanning lotion, look for hydrating ingredients like Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, and exotic oils that maintain your skin’s moisture during and after tanning. Many formulas also include antioxidant-rich complexes to protect your skin from environmental stress while boosting elasticity. Lightweight silicone blends guarantee smooth application and lock in moisture, preventing dryness. If you have tattoos, natural emollients in some lotions can keep them vibrant by preventing fading. Proper hydration not only keeps your skin supple but also helps you achieve a more even, long-lasting tan that looks healthy and radiant.
Fragrance and Scent
One of the key factors you’ll notice when choosing a designer skin tanning lotion is its fragrance, which can greatly enhance your tanning experience. Many lotions feature delightful scents like tropical fruits or floral blends that make application more enjoyable. Some even include ATO (After Tan Odor) inhibitors to prevent unpleasant smells after tanning, ensuring you feel fresh. Keep in mind, fragrance profiles vary widely—from invigorating citrus to subtle, sophisticated aromas—so you can find one that fits your style. However, if you have sensitive skin or allergies, selecting a lightly scented or fragrance-free option is essential to avoid irritation. Ultimately, the right scent not only boosts your satisfaction but also encourages you to keep coming back for that radiant, sun-kissed glow.
Application and Absorption
Along with choosing a fragrance that suits your style, understanding how a tanning lotion applies and absorbs can make a big difference in your results. Apply the lotion to clean, dry skin using circular motions to guarantee even coverage and ideal absorption. Many designer tanning lotions include a lightweight silicone blend for a smooth, streak-free finish that feels comfortable on your skin. Be sure to wash your hands immediately after application to avoid unwanted bronzer stains on your palms. Look for formulas with moisturizing ingredients; they not only enhance absorption but also keep your skin hydrated during the process. Finally, allow 4 to 6 hours for the color to fully develop, ensuring you achieve that perfect sun-kissed glow you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does a Tanning Lotion Typically Last on the Skin?
Tanning lotion typically lasts on your skin for about 3 to 7 days. You’ll notice it fading gradually as your skin naturally exfoliates, so moisturizing regularly can help extend that sun-kissed glow a bit longer.
Are Designer Tanning Lotions Safe for Sensitive Skin?
You should check the ingredients in designer tanning lotions, as some contain fragrances or chemicals that might irritate sensitive skin. Always do a patch test first to guarantee it won’t cause redness or discomfort before full use.
Can These Lotions Be Used for Outdoor Sun Tanning?
You can use many tanning lotions outdoors, but always check the label. Some are designed for indoor use only, while others offer SPF protection. Don’t forget to reapply and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Do Tanning Lotions Have Any Moisturizing Benefits?
Yes, tanning lotions often have moisturizing benefits. They’ll hydrate your skin while enhancing your tan, preventing dryness and flakiness. You’ll enjoy a smooth, glowing complexion as these lotions nourish and protect your skin during tanning.
How Should Tanning Lotion Be Applied for Best Results?
You should apply tanning lotion evenly on clean, exfoliated skin before sun exposure. Don’t forget to use a generous amount and reapply every couple of hours to maintain an even, long-lasting tan.
