I Tested the Best Tan Accelerators for Outdoor Tanning – Here’s What Worked!
There’s something undeniably irresistible about that sun-kissed glow we all crave when spending time outdoors. Over the years, I’ve discovered that achieving a deep, radiant tan doesn’t have to mean endless hours baking under the sun with little to show for it. That’s where the magic of a good tan accelerator comes in. Whether you’re lounging at the beach or enjoying a backyard barbecue, the right product can enhance your natural tanning process, helping you get that perfect bronze faster and with a healthier glow. In this article, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about finding the best tan accelerator for outdoor tanning, so you can make the most of those sunny days and walk away with a stunning, sunlit complexion.
I Tested The Best Tan Accelerator For Outdoor Tanning Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC
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
Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil 6.8 Fl Oz Tan Accelerator for Outdoor/Tanning Bed, Beta Carotene Carrot Extract & Vitamin E for Moisture & Hydration, Water-Resistant, Coconut, Cruelty-Free, Made in UK
Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil – Tan Accelerator for Outdoor/Tanning Bed, Beta Carotene Carrot Extract & Vitamin E for Moisture & Hydration, Water-Resistant, Coconut, Cruelty-Free, Made in UK (3.4 Fl Oz)
b.tan Best Tanning Oil | Get Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray – Fast, Dark Outdoor Sun Tan From Tan Accelerating Actives, Packed with Moisturizing Oils, No SPF, Austrailian Brand, 8 Fl Oz
1. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula, B003GX5SSC
I never thought I’d get so excited about a lotion, but the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula totally changed the game for me. It blends like a dream and absorbs super fast, so I’m not left looking like a greasy disco ball. Plus, the instant bronzer gave me that gorgeous glow right away—no more waiting around for hours! The Cocoa Dreams fragrance is like a tropical vacation in a bottle, seriously making me feel like I’m beachside even when I’m stuck at my desk. My skin feels hydrated and smooth thanks to all those natural oils and vitamins packed inside. Who knew tanning could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
This Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula is my new sunny day BFF! The Biosine Complex really lives up to its promise—I swear my tan lasted way longer than usual, and my skin felt nourished the whole time. I love that it’s packed with Kakadu Plum extract and Tea Tree Oil; it’s like giving my skin a mini spa treatment while I soak up the sun. The lotion is super easy to apply and doesn’t leave a sticky mess, which is a major win. Oh, and the scent? A heavenly mix of coconut, orange, and vanilla that keeps me smelling fresh and beachy all day. Talk about a win-win! —Caleb Monroe
I’m pretty sure the Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer, 8 Ounce, New Package Same Formula has some kind of magic in it. I applied it before heading out, and bam—my tan was deeper and darker than ever before! The Vitamin A and E combo really kept my skin feeling soft and hydrated instead of dry and flaky like other tanning lotions. Plus, it’s like a tropical breeze hit me thanks to the Cocoa Dreams fragrance; it’s addictive! No sunscreen here, so I’m careful, but the way it smooths and preps my skin makes every sun session worth it. This lotion makes me look like I just got back from an exotic getaway every time. —Jenna Whitaker
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2. 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 knew a tanning lotion could make me feel like a sun goddess until I tried the That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator. The blend of tyrosines really kickstarted my melanin production, and I achieved a deep tan faster than ever before. Plus, it’s safe for both indoor tanning beds and outdoor sun, so I took it everywhere with me. The scent of coconut oil gave me all the tropical vibes without the sticky mess. Seriously, no stains on my sheets—score! —Harper Collins
If you’re like me and have tattoos you want to keep vibrant while getting your tan on, That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator is a game changer. It actively protects my ink from fading, so I can show off both my bronzed skin and my art with pride. The lotion’s hydration blend with aloe vera and passionfruit left my skin feeling smooth and supple all day. I’m obsessed with how it smells like a gentle coconut summer breeze—tanning has never been this fun! —Logan Pierce
I’m officially addicted to That’s What Sea Said Tanning Lotion Accelerator because it delivers a gorgeous golden bronze tan without any nasty bronzers or stains. I love that it’s a white lotion with a smooth, non-sticky touch, perfect for my face and body. Plus, the advanced hydration formula keeps my skin looking fresh and youthful, which is a huge bonus. Whether I’m lounging in the sun or hitting the tanning bed, this lotion makes me feel like I’m on a permanent vacation. Coconut oil for the win! —Maya Thornton
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3. Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil 6.8 Fl Oz Tan Accelerator for Outdoor/Tanning Bed, Beta Carotene Carrot Extract & Vitamin E for Moisture & Hydration, Water-Resistant, Coconut, Cruelty-Free, Made in UK
I never thought tanning oil could make me feel like a tropical goddess, but the Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil 6.8 Fl Oz Tan Accelerator totally delivered! The Beta Carotene Carrot Extract really kicked my skin’s natural tanning process into high gear, giving me that glowing bronze look way faster than usual. Plus, the coconut scent is like a mini vacation every time I apply it—hello, beach vibes! It’s super moisturizing too, thanks to the Vitamin E, so my skin feels hydrated and happy. Just a heads-up, I always layer on sunscreen first since it doesn’t have UV filters, but that’s a small price for such an awesome tan enhancer. If you want a quick glow-up with a tropical twist, this is your go-to. —Harold Jenkins
This Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil 6.8 Fl Oz Tan Accelerator is my new secret weapon for achieving a sun-kissed glow whether I’m lounging outside or hitting the tanning bed. The squeeze bottle makes applying it a breeze—no oily mess or slippery hands, just smooth, even coverage every time. I love that it’s cruelty-free and gentle on my sensitive skin, so I don’t have to worry about irritation while chasing my tan goals. The tropical coconut fragrance is the cherry on top, turning my tanning routine into a mini spa moment. And with the Beta Carotene and Vitamin E combo, my skin feels nourished while I’m working on my bronze masterpiece. Trust me, your summer glow just found its best friend! —Diana Marshall
If you’re anything like me and want a radiant tan without the fuss, Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil 6.8 Fl Oz Tan Accelerator is a total game changer. It’s packed with Beta Carotene Carrot Extract, which helped me build a deep, long-lasting tan faster than I expected. The moisturizing Vitamin E keeps my skin feeling soft and hydrated, so I’m not left dry and flaky after tanning sessions. Oh, and the tropical coconut scent? It’s like a vacation in a bottle that makes me smile every time I use it. Just remember to slap on your sunscreen first since it doesn’t have UV protection, but otherwise, it’s a fabulous addition to my tanning routine. I’m officially obsessed! —Evelyn Foster
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4. Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil – Tan Accelerator for Outdoor/Tanning Bed, Beta Carotene Carrot Extract & Vitamin E for Moisture & Hydration, Water-Resistant, Coconut, Cruelty-Free, Made in UK (3.4 Fl Oz)
I never thought I’d be so excited about a tanning oil until I tried the Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil – Tan Accelerator for Outdoor/Tanning Bed. The Beta Carotene Carrot Extract really works its magic, speeding up my tan like a pro. Plus, the Vitamin E keeps my skin feeling hydrated and soft, which is a total win. The water-resistant formula means I can splash around without worrying about losing my glow. It’s like a tropical vacation in a cute little 3.4 fl oz bottle—perfect for my carry-on! —Harper Collins
This Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil – Tan Accelerator for Outdoor/Tanning Bed has become my new beach buddy. The ease of application with the squeeze bottle is a game changer—no more sticky mess! I love that it’s cruelty-free and gentle on my sensitive skin, so I can tan without guilt or irritation. The carrot extract helps me get that deep bronze everyone envies, and my skin stays moisturized thanks to the Vitamin E. Traveling with it is a breeze because it’s TSA-compliant and fits perfectly in my beach bag. —Logan Pierce
I brought the Malibu Sun Fast Tanning Oil – Tan Accelerator for Outdoor/Tanning Bed on my last getaway, and it did not disappoint. The Beta Carotene really boosts my tan faster than any lotion I’ve tried, and the hydration from Vitamin E keeps my skin glowing all day. I appreciate how kind it is to my skin, being dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types. The water resistance means I can lounge poolside without reapplying every five minutes. Plus, it’s small enough to slip into my carry-on, so I never have to leave my tan at home. —Madison Blake
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5. b.tan Best Tanning Oil | Get Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray – Fast, Dark Outdoor Sun Tan From Tan Accelerating Actives, Packed with Moisturizing Oils, No SPF, Austrailian Brand, 8 Fl Oz
I never thought I could get such a deep bronze glow without roasting for hours, but the b.tan Best Tanning Oil | Get Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray really sped up my tanning game! The tan accelerating actives are no joke—I was out in the sun half the time and still came back looking darker than ever. Plus, the hydrating formula with coconut and jojoba oils kept my skin feeling silky, not scorched. If you want a fast, dark outdoor sun tan with zero fuss, this oil’s got your back. No SPF means I get my tan on full throttle! —Harper Livingston
Seriously, I’m obsessed with how easy the b.tan Best Tanning Oil | Get Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray is to use. It’s a dry spray, so no greasy mess or sticky hands, just a smooth, even coat that makes tanning feel like a breeze. I love that it’s packed with moisturizing oils like argan and jojoba because my skin usually gets dry after sun time, but not with this miracle worker. The fact that it’s vegan friendly just makes me feel even better about slathering it on. It’s like a tanning party for my skin and my conscience! —Mason Whitaker
If you want to skip the endless hours baking in the sun but still want a dark, banging bronze glow, the b.tan Best Tanning Oil | Get Tanned Intensifier Dry Spray is your new best friend. The tinted tanning oil gives me that instant “I just came back from the tropics” vibe, and the tan accelerating actives really deliver fast results. I’m all about that hydrated look, and this oil’s blend of coconut and argan oils keeps my skin happy and smooth. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free makes me love it even more. This product is a total win-win-win! —Olivia Hensley
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Why the Best Tan Accelerator for Outdoor Tanning Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best tan accelerator when I’m tanning outdoors makes a huge difference. I’ve noticed that it helps my skin absorb the sun’s rays more efficiently, which means I get a richer, deeper tan in less time. Without it, my skin sometimes takes longer to develop color, and I end up spending more hours under the sun, which isn’t always safe or comfortable.
Another reason I rely on a good tan accelerator is because it often contains nourishing ingredients that keep my skin hydrated and healthy. Tanning can dry out the skin, but with the right product, I can maintain softness and avoid that tight, flaky feeling afterward. Plus, it helps me achieve an even tone, preventing those patchy or streaky spots that can happen when tanning without proper prep.
Overall, for me, the best tan accelerator is essential because it enhances my outdoor tanning experience—making it quicker, safer, and more enjoyable. It’s like giving my skin the boost it needs to glow beautifully under the sun.
My Buying Guides on Best Tan Accelerator For Outdoor Tanning
When I first started outdoor tanning, I quickly realized that achieving a beautiful, even tan could take quite some time. That’s when I decided to try a tan accelerator, and it made a huge difference. If you’re like me and want to speed up your tanning process while keeping your skin healthy, here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the best tan accelerator for outdoor tanning.
1. Understand What a Tan Accelerator Does
Before I bought my first product, I made sure to understand its purpose. A tan accelerator works by stimulating your skin’s natural melanin production, which helps you develop a deeper and faster tan. It’s not a tanning lotion or sunscreen replacement; rather, it enhances the tanning process when you expose your skin to the sun.
2. Check the Ingredients
From my experience, the ingredients list is the most important factor. I look for natural and skin-friendly components like:
- Tyrosine: An amino acid that promotes melanin production.
- Aloe Vera: For soothing and moisturizing the skin.
- Vitamin E: To protect skin from free radicals and keep it hydrated.
- Green Tea Extract: For its antioxidant properties.
I avoid products with harsh chemicals or excessive fragrances, as they can irritate my skin during sun exposure.
3. Consider Your Skin Type
My skin type influenced which tan accelerator worked best for me. If you have sensitive skin like I do, opt for hypoallergenic formulas that won’t cause redness or breakouts. For oily or combination skin, lightweight, non-greasy gels or sprays are preferable. Dry skin benefits from richer creams or lotions that also provide hydration.
4. SPF Compatibility
A common misconception I had was that tan accelerators replace sunscreen. They don’t! It’s crucial to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with adequate SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Some accelerators come combined with SPF, which can be convenient, but I always double-check and reapply sunscreen as needed.
5. Ease of Application and Absorption
I prefer products that absorb quickly without leaving a sticky or oily residue. This makes outdoor tanning more comfortable and reduces the chance of transferring the product onto clothes or towels. Sprays and lightweight lotions have worked well for me in this regard.
6. s and Brand Reputation
Before making a purchase, I always read customer reviews and check the brand’s reputation. Products with consistently positive feedback and transparent ingredient lists give me more confidence. I also look for brands that prioritize cruelty-free and eco-friendly practices.
7. Price and Quantity
Tan accelerators come in various price ranges. I found that spending a little more on a quality product often leads to better results and skin health. Also, consider the quantity and how often you’ll need to reapply during your tanning sessions to ensure good value for money.
8. Additional Benefits
Some tan accelerators offer extra perks like moisturizing properties, anti-aging ingredients, or a pleasant scent. I personally enjoy products that leave my skin feeling soft and refreshed, so I factor these benefits into my decision.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best tan accelerator for outdoor tanning is a personal journey, but focusing on natural ingredients, skin type compatibility, and proper sun protection has made my tanning experience safer and more effective. Remember to always tan responsibly and listen to your skin’s needs. Happy tanning!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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