Want to build a deeper-looking tan while keeping skin soft and hydrated? Here’s how tanning accelerators work, how to use them and how to choose the right formula for your routine.

What Is A Tanning Accelerator?

A tanning accelerator is a lotion, cream, oil or spray designed to help enhance the look of your natural tan when skin is exposed to UV light. Many formulas also help keep skin feeling soft, smooth and moisturised.

Unlike fake tan, tanning accelerators do not usually create instant colour. They are not sun protection either, so they should never replace SPF or be used as a reason to spend longer in the sun.

Do Tanning Accelerators Actually Work?

Tanning accelerators can help your tan appear deeper and more even when used with UV exposure, but results vary by skin tone, skin type and formula.

Many contain ingredients such as Tyrosine, melanin-supporting complexes and hydrating oils or butters to help enhance the look of your tan while keeping skin moisturised. They do not usually work without sun or UV exposure, so choose fake tan or gradual tan if you want a UV-free glow.

What Does Tyrosine Do In Tanning Products?

Tyrosine, often listed as L-Tyrosine, is an amino acid used in some tanning accelerators. It is included because it is linked to melanin, the pigment that gives skin its natural colour.

In tanning products, L-Tyrosine is designed to support the tanning process when skin is exposed to UV light. It does not tan the skin on its own and it does not protect against burning, so SPF is still essential when tanning outdoors.

What Are The Best Tanning Accelerators?

The best tanning accelerator depends on your skin type, tanning routine and where you plan to use it. Some formulas are better suited to outdoor tanning, while others are designed as indoor tanning accelerators or tanning lotions for sunbeds. Always check the product instructions before use.

Best Tanning Accelerator For Beginners

Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator is a great place to start if you are new to tanning accelerators. The easy-to-apply lotion helps enhance the look of your natural tan while keeping skin feeling soft and moisturised.

Best for: Beginners, everyday tanning routines and easy application.

Best Tanning Accelerator For Dry Skin

If your skin feels dry or tight, ProTan Beaches & Creme Dark Tanning Accelerator Butter is a richer option. Its buttery texture helps nourish and moisturise the skin while supporting a deeper-looking tan.

Best for: Dry skin, richer moisture and a smooth-looking finish.

Best Tanning Accelerator For Fair Skin

Fair or pale skin needs extra care when tanning. ProTan Radically Hemp Gelee Tanning Accelerator is a good choice for a more gradual-looking tan, but SPF, shade breaks and limited sun exposure are still essential.

Best for: Fair skin, gradual-looking results and careful tanning routines.

Best Tanning Butter For A Summer Glow

Malibu Fast Tanning Bronzing Butter is ideal if you want a rich, moisturising formula to help enhance the look of your natural tan. Formulated with Beta Carotene and Vitamin E, it helps leave skin feeling soft and nourished while supporting a deeper-looking glow during UV exposure.

The buttery texture makes it a great choice for skin that tans easily and anyone who prefers a more nourishing tanning product.

Best for: Skin that tans easily, richer moisture and a healthy-looking summer glow.

Best Tanning Accelerator For Sensitive Skin

For skin that is easily irritated, ProTan Dark Hypoallergenic Tanning Accelerator Lotion is a gentler option. Patch testing is still recommended before applying all over.

Best for: Sensitive skin, gentler formulas and cautious tanning routines.

Explore our full range of tanning accelerators to find the right formula for your tanning routine.

How To Build A Tanning Routine With A Tanning Accelerator

For the best results, use tanning accelerators as part of a full tanning routine, not as a replacement for sun protection. Smooth, hydrated skin can help your tan look more even, while SPF is essential when tanning outdoors.

Step 1: Exfoliate first
Gently exfoliate before tanning to remove dry, flaky skin and create a smoother base. Focus on areas such as elbows, knees, ankles and feet.

Step 2: Apply your tanning accelerator evenly
Apply your tanning accelerator to clean, dry skin before tanning, usually around 20-30 minutes before sun exposure or a sunbed session. If using a sunbed, make sure your product is suitable for indoor tanning.

Step 3: Use SPF outdoors
When tanning outdoors, always apply SPF. Tanning accelerators do not stop your skin from burning unless they specifically contain sun protection.

Step 4: Moisturise after tanning
After tanning, moisturise or apply after sun to keep skin soft, smooth and hydrated. This can help your tan look fresher, last longer and fade more evenly.

How Do You Make A Tan Last Longer?

To make a tan last longer, keep skin smooth and hydrated. Exfoliate gently before tanning, then moisturise daily to help your tan look even and fade more gradually.

After sun exposure, use after sun or body moisturiser, and avoid harsh scrubs once your tan has developed.

Tanning Accelerator Vs Bronzer Vs Fake Tan

Tanning accelerators can come in different formats, including lotions, creams, oils, butters and bronzing formulas. The main difference is how they create or enhance colour.

Tanning accelerator: Works with UV exposure to help build a natural-looking tan gradually.

Bronzing accelerator: Combines tan-enhancing ingredients with cosmetic bronzers for a quicker glow.

Fake tan: Colours the skin without UV exposure, making it the best option for a UV-free glow.

Are Tanning Accelerators Safe?

Tanning accelerators can be suitable for many people, but they do not make sunbathing or sunbed use safe and should never replace SPF.

If tanning outdoors, always use SPF with UVA and UVB protection, reapply regularly and avoid spending too long in direct sun. Patch test before use, avoid irritated skin and stop using the product if your skin feels uncomfortable. For colour without UV exposure, self-tan or gradual tan is the safer option.

Tanning Accelerator FAQs

Can I use tanning accelerator without sun?

Most tanning accelerators need UV exposure to help develop a natural-looking tan. If you want colour without sitting in the sun or using a sunbed, choose fake tan or gradual tan instead.

Do I need to use SPF with tanning accelerator?

Yes. If you are tanning outdoors, always use SPF. A tanning accelerator does not replace sun cream unless it specifically contains SPF.

Can tanning accelerator stop me burning?

No. A tanning accelerator will not stop your skin from burning unless it contains suitable sun protection. Even then, SPF must be applied properly and reapplied regularly.

Can you use tanning accelerator on sunbeds?

Some tanning accelerators are designed for sunbed use, but always check the product instructions first. Sunbeds expose skin to UV radiation, so they are not a risk-free way to tan.

What is the best tanning lotion for sunbeds?

The best tanning lotion for sunbeds is one specifically labelled as suitable for indoor tanning or sunbed use. Always check the product directions before applying a tanning accelerator before a sunbed session.

Is tanning accelerator the same as fake tan?

No. Fake tan colours the skin without UV exposure, while tanning accelerator is designed to help enhance the look of your natural tan when used with UV exposure.

Can pale skin use tanning accelerator?

Yes, but pale or fair skin is often more prone to burning, so SPF, shade breaks and limited sun exposure are essential. If you burn easily or rarely tan, fake tan or gradual tan may be a better option.

Can I use tanning accelerator on my face?

Only use a tanning accelerator on your face if the product says it is suitable for facial use. Facial skin can be more sensitive, so patch testing is recommended.