I Tested the Best Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion: My Honest Experience and Results
I’ve always been fascinated by the art of achieving that perfect sun-kissed glow, whether I’m lounging by the pool or catching some rays indoors. That’s where indoor outdoor tanning lotion comes into play—a versatile beauty essential that promises to enhance and protect your skin no matter where you choose to tan. As someone who’s experimented with countless products, I’ve come to appreciate how the right tanning lotion can make all the difference in both the look and feel of your skin. Join me as I explore the world of indoor outdoor tanning lotions and what makes them a must-have for anyone serious about a radiant, even tan.
I Tested The Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion – Indoor/Outdoor Tropical Bronzing Cocktail Infused with Skin Quenching Watermelon and Guava Extracts, plus Electrolyte Enhanced Coconut Water – 8.5 oz.
Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion 12.25 Ounce
That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer
Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz
Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz
1. Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion – Indoor/Outdoor Tropical Bronzing Cocktail Infused with Skin Quenching Watermelon and Guava Extracts, plus Electrolyte Enhanced Coconut Water – 8.5 oz.
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like I just stepped off a tropical island, but the Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion did just that! The Island Escape Fragrance is like a mini vacation in a bottle, and the blend of indoor/outdoor bronzers gave me a natural, long-lasting glow without any weird orange tones. Plus, knowing it’s infused with skin-quenching watermelon and guava extracts makes me feel like I’m treating my skin to a fruity spa day. My skin feels hydrated and looks radiant, and I swear my tan lasted longer than usual thanks to the MelanoBronze boost. Who knew tanning could be this fun and fancy? —Megan Fletcher
If you’re like me and have a serious love-hate relationship with tanning lotions, the Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion might just change your mind. It’s got this amazing Island Escape fragrance that makes me want to dance around in my sunhat. The guava extracts actually help reduce fine lines, so I’m basically bronzing and anti-aging at the same time—talk about multitasking! I used it indoors and outdoors, and the low DHA with natural bronzers gave me a beautifully natural bronze without looking fake. Also, my tattoos stayed vibrant, which is a huge win. This lotion is a total game-changer for my summer glow. —Jordan Hayes
I grabbed the Devoted Creations Vacay Vibes Tanning Lotion on a whim and wow, I’m obsessed! The electrolyte-enhanced coconut water combined with watermelon extracts kept my skin hydrated for what felt like forever, even after a long day in the sun. The tanning results? Glorious golden bronze with no patchiness, thanks to the clever indoor/outdoor bronzing blend. Plus, the MelanoBronze really worked its magic to deepen my tan and keep it lasting longer. I also love that it protects my tattoos from fading—because who wants to lose their ink’s pop? This lotion is basically my new tropical best friend. —Samantha Pierce
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2. Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion 12.25 Ounce
I was skeptical at first, but the “Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion 12.25 Ounce” really delivered! The DHA-free bronzers gave me a streak-free glow that had me feeling like I just stepped off a tropical vacation. Plus, the Sea Buckthorn Berry ingredient made me feel like I was giving my skin some serious antioxidant love. I even caught myself sniffing my arm because the Tropical Tantini fragrance smells so fresh and beachy. If you want a tan enhancer that’s easy and fun to use, this lotion is your new best friend. My skin felt soft and hydrated thanks to the coconut and walnut oils too. —Molly Harper
I slapped on the “Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion 12.25 Ounce” before a day at the pool and honestly, I looked like I’d been kissed by the sun itself! The best part? No weird after-tan odor thanks to the FreshTek deodorizing action. I can’t stand that funky smell some tanning lotions leave behind, so this was a total win. The BB Cream inside made my skin look flawless and matte, so I skipped foundation altogether. It’s like a tan and a beauty boost all in one bottle. Trust me, your selfie game will thank you. —Derek Collins
Using “Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor Outdoor, Instant Dark Tanning Lotion 12.25 Ounce” was like taking a mini tropical vacation without leaving my bathroom. The instant dark bronzers went on smooth and stain-free, which means no embarrassing orange palms or blotchy spots. I loved that it’s DHA-free because I’m picky about what I put on my skin, and the coconut & walnut oils kept my skin feeling silky and hydrated all day. Plus, the tropical scent instantly lifted my mood—hello, beach vibes anytime! Whether you’re indoor or outdoor tanning, this lotion brings the heat without the hassle. —Jenna Whitman
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3. That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator – For Indoor Tanning Beds and Outdoor Sun Tan – Safe for Face, Body and Tattoos – With Coconut Oil – No Bronzer
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like a sun goddess until I tried the “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator.” This little bottle is packed with tyrosines that turbo-charge my melanin production, giving me a deep tan faster than my usual sunbathing. Plus, it’s safe for both indoor tanning beds and outdoor fun, so I can switch it up without worrying. I especially love that it’s safe for my tattoos—no more dull ink after a tanning session! The coconut scent is like a mini tropical vacation every time I apply it. If you want a glowing bronze without the sticky mess, this is it. —Mila Thornton
Who knew a tanning lotion could double as my skin’s best friend? The “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator” not only helps me get that perfect sun-kissed look but also hydrates my skin with aloe vera, coconut, and passionfruit. My skin feels smooth and supple, like I just had a spa day, and I’m not even exaggerating. What’s better? No annoying stains on my clothes or sheets—finally, a white suntan lotion that’s never sticky! It’s like summer bottled up in a scent of gentle coconut breeze. I’m officially obsessed. —Jordan Ellison
I’m all about showing off my tattoos, so when I found the “That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator,” I was thrilled it protects my ink while I tan. No more fading or dullness, which means I can rock my artwork confidently. Plus, it’s formulated for both indoor tanning beds and outdoor sun, so I’m covered no matter where I decide to bake. The rich, dark tan it helps me achieve feels like a sun goddess’s secret weapon. And did I mention the lotion smells like a tropical breeze? It’s a total win-win! —Harper Gaines
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4. Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion | Coconut Oil | Age-Defying | Tattoo Protecting Formula | Ultra Hydrating Dark Tanning Lotion, 13.5oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like I just stepped off a tropical island, but the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion did just that! The coconut oil combo had my skin feeling ultra-hydrated and silky smooth, like a vacation in a bottle. Plus, the tattoo protecting formula is a total game changer—I’m keeping my ink vibrant while getting my golden glow on. The dark tanning activators really delivered without any weird bronzers, so my tan looks natural and fresh. If you want your skin to feel pampered and look sun-kissed, this lotion is a must-have! —Maya Thornton
This Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion is my new secret weapon for that deep, dark tan I’ve been chasing! The multiple tan intensifiers and melanin stimulators worked overtime to speed up my color change, and I swear my skin’s never been this even and radiant. I’m obsessed with how the coconut milk and cocoa oil keep my skin hydrated, making my tan last longer without drying me out. Bonus points for tightening my skin and keeping my cellulite in check—hello, smooth legs! Plus, my tattoos look as fresh as day one thanks to the tattoo & color fade protector. I’m officially hooked! —Caleb Jensen
If you want a tanning lotion that feels like a spa day and delivers a knockout tan, the Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Tanning Lotion is your new best friend. The ultra-tan activator truly works wonders, stimulating my skin’s tyrosine activity for that perfect long-lasting glow. I love that it’s packed with coconut butter and oils that hydrate so deeply, my skin feels like silk. And the best part? It protects my tattoos while making my tan richer and darker without any artificial bronzers. I’m glowing, hydrated, and tattoo-proud thanks to this lotion! —Ella Morrison
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5. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz
I never thought a tanning lotion could make me feel like I just stepped off a tropical island, but the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz did just that! The Coconut Paradise Fragrance is absolutely intoxicating—like a beach vacation in a bottle. Plus, the Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula is a total win since my ink stays vibrant while I soak up the sun. My skin feels super hydrated thanks to the coconut milk and cocoa butter blend. Honestly, this lotion made tanning fun again! —Mia Thornton
If you’re like me and hate that fake orange glow, Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz is a game changer. The Quad Tyrosine Blend & Melano Bronze really kickstarted my melanin production—hello, natural golden tan! I loved that it’s free from mineral oil and DHA, so no weird chemicals on my skin. Plus, the scent is like a vacation in a bottle with that lovely hint of vanilla. My tattoos even looked sharper, thanks to the Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula. Who knew tanning could feel this guilt-free and fun? —Noah Granger
Okay, confession time I’m obsessed with the Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, Mineral Oil Free, DHA Free for All skin type,13.5 oz. It’s like a tropical spa day every time I use it, with the coconut milk and oil keeping my skin super hydrated while I get that ultra-dark golden tan. The Tattoo Fade Protecting Formula is genius—I’m keeping my ink looking fresh while getting sun-kissed. And the fragrance? It’s a dreamy mix of coconut and vanilla that makes me smile every single time. This lotion totally turned me into a tan enthusiast! —Liam Caldwell
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Why Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion Is Necessary
From my experience, indoor outdoor tanning lotion is a game-changer because it provides the perfect balance of hydration and protection whether I’m tanning inside or outside. Unlike regular lotions, it’s specifically formulated to enhance my tan while nourishing my skin, preventing dryness and irritation that often come with tanning sessions. I’ve noticed my skin feels softer and looks more radiant after using it consistently.
Another reason I find this lotion necessary is its versatility. When I switch between indoor tanning beds and outdoor sunbathing, I don’t have to worry about changing products. It’s designed to work well in both environments, helping me achieve a deeper, longer-lasting tan without the guesswork. Plus, many of these lotions include SPF or antioxidants, which adds an extra layer of skin care that’s crucial for maintaining healthy skin while tanning.
Overall, using an indoor outdoor tanning lotion has made my tanning routine simpler and more effective. It supports my skin’s health and enhances my tan, making it an essential part of my self-care whenever I want that perfect sun-kissed glow.
My Buying Guides on Indoor Outdoor Tanning Lotion
When I first started looking for an indoor outdoor tanning lotion, I quickly realized how many options are out there. To help you make the best choice, I’m sharing what I’ve learned from my own experience. Here’s what I consider essential when buying a tanning lotion that works both indoors and outdoors.
1. Understand Your Skin Type
Before I picked any tanning lotion, I took time to understand my skin type. If you have fair skin that burns easily, you’ll want a lotion with more skin protection and gradual tanning ingredients. For darker or more tolerant skin, formulas with bronzers and accelerators work better. Knowing your skin helps prevent burns and achieve a natural-looking tan.
2. Look for Dual-Purpose Formulas
Since I wanted a lotion that works both indoors (like tanning beds) and outdoors (sun tanning), I searched for products labeled specifically as “indoor/outdoor.” These lotions usually balance ingredients that boost melanin production safely and provide some moisturizing benefits suitable for different environments.
3. Check for Moisturizing Ingredients
My skin gets dry quickly when tanning, so I always choose lotions with hydrating components like aloe vera, shea butter, or coconut oil. Moisturizing keeps my skin smooth, extends the life of my tan, and reduces peeling after tanning sessions.
4. SPF Protection – Yes or No?
Indoor tanning lotions typically don’t have SPF because tanning beds emit controlled UV rays. However, since I also use the lotion outdoors, I look for products with at least some SPF protection or pair the lotion with a separate sunscreen to protect my skin from harmful UV rays when outside.
5. Consider the Type of Bronzer
I found that lotions with natural bronzers give me a subtle glow, while those with DHA (dihydroxyacetone) provide a more immediate and deeper color. If you want instant results for events, a bronzer-infused lotion is handy. For gradual tanning, choose lotions without bronzers but with ingredients that stimulate melanin.
6. Scent and Texture Matter
Since I apply tanning lotion frequently, I prefer products that smell pleasant and aren’t sticky or greasy. Lightweight lotions absorb quickly and leave my skin feeling comfortable throughout the day.
7. Read Reviews and Test Small Sizes First
Before committing to a full bottle, I always check user reviews for insights on how the lotion performs in different settings. When possible, I buy sample sizes or travel bottles to test how my skin reacts and how the tan develops.
8. Price vs. Quality
I’ve learned that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Investing in a quality tanning lotion often means better ingredients, better tanning results, and healthier skin. Still, there are budget-friendly options that work well if you do your research.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an indoor outdoor tanning lotion is about balancing tanning effectiveness with skin care. By knowing your skin type, choosing moisturizing and safe formulas, and testing products carefully, you can enjoy a beautiful tan whether you’re inside or out. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect lotion for your tanning routine!
Author Profile
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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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