Kayla Young
Beachtime! Sun on your skin, toes in the sand, and beautiful scenery of all types! It’s practically sensory overload, and yet so relaxing at the same time.
When it’s time to get sun at the beach, you want to have the right skincare products to maximize your tanning efforts. Tanning lotions and oils speed up tanning, improve the skin, and make you feel great.
Some lotions include broad-spectrum sunscreen as well, so you don’t even need to apply more than one product! Yes, the SPF will slow tanning, but it will also protect your skin. There is a balance to everything.
So what is the best tanning lotion for the beach? After looking at several of the top tanning lotions available, we’ve found that the best is the Maui Babe Before and After Sun Pack.
Contents
Best Tanning Lotion for the Beach: Comparison Table
After many hours of tanning on the beach, we’ve compiled our list of the Best Tanning Lotions for the Beach. See below for reviews of each of these lotions.
![Maui Babe Before And After Browning Lotion, [2-Pack]- Before And After Sun Tan, Made In USA, 8 Ounces](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAxIDEiIHdpZHRoPSIxIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjEiIGRhdGEtdT0iaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZtLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20lMkZpbWFnZXMlMkZJJTJGNDFvVE0tTWJQTUwuX1NMMTYwXy5qcGciIGRhdGEtdz0iMSIgZGF0YS1oPSIxIiBkYXRhLWJpcD0iIj48L3N2Zz4=)
Tanning Lotion for the Beach: Buyer’s Guide
Tanning lotions can help speed outdoor tanning, help you get dark, and help you achieve the benefits of sunlight and tanning. Just remember you’ll get tan lines if you’re wearing a suit at the beach.
However, before you use your tanning lotion, there are certain guidelines you should follow. Because tanning lotions and tanning oils contain ingredients that help your skin tan evenly and better under the natural sun, care must be taken to not tax your skin too much.
Tanning at the Beach
Tanning at the Beach is the best. thing. in. the. world. Pretty much, anyway.
It is so pleasant to spend time at the beach, soaking the sun, playing in the waves, dancing in the sand, reading a book or magazine.
But before you go, you should check the UV Index Forecast for your area. If you’re going to be outside for a significant amount of time while the UV Index is 3 or higher, you should be wearing sunscreen. If you’re headed to the beach, you will almost certainly be in such a situation.
Also, remember that the sand reflects the sun, increasing the power of the sun’s rays.
See our article on the Best UV Index for Tanning
Scheduling Beauty Care Appointments
If you have a waxing appointment or plan on shaving your body hair, do so more than 24 hours ahead of using your tanning lotion.
Exfoliate Before Tanning
Another great way of making sure your tanning lotions and tanning oils sink well into your skin is by exfoliating a day prior to application – however, don’t overdo it! You don’t want your skin to be overly sensitive when you apply your tanning products.
Sunscreen and SPF
Some outdoor tanning lotions provide broad-spectrum sun protection, while others do not. You need to pay attention to what your individual tanning lotion has for sun protection, as you do not want to be outdoors for a long time without sunscreen. You’ll just end up with sunburns and worse skin than you started with.
And you increase your skin cancer risk.
Don’t do it.
You need to pay attention to what your individual tanning lotion has for sun protection, as you do not want to be outdoors for a long time without sunscreen. You’ll just end up with sunburns and worse skin than you started with.
In each review, we mention whether or not the tanning lotion has SPF in it. If it doesn’t, be sure to mix in an appropriate amount of sunscreen to the tanning lotion, or apply your sunscreen after you’ve applied the tanning lotion.
Hydration and Mositurizers
When it comes to picking a tanning lotion, consider your skin type. Skin that is mature, dry, or sensitive requires emollients, SPF, and tons of hydration to keep it protected, smooth, and tanned.
Well-moisturized skin will definitely tan better than dry skin.
So if you have skin that falls under these criteria, choose tanning lotions that are made of natural oils and moisturizers.
However, if your skin is combination or oily, it’s best to go with a formula that is water-resistant. This is especially if you plan on going into the water or showering after tanning.
Reapplication of Tanning Lotion
Another thing to know about using tanning lotions and tanning oils is that they need to re-applied again every couple of hours. And when you are reapplying your lotion, you need to reapply your sunscreen, too!
And of course, if you wish to remove your tanning lotion, exfoliate your skin with a mild skin exfoliator – you can even make one at home using ground coffee and olive oil; it helps to scrub the lotion off the epidermis and moisturizes your skin at the same time.
Best Tanning Lotion for the Beach: Maui Babe Before and After Sun Pack
The Maui Babe Before and After Sun Pack brings the power and beauty of the Hawaiian tan straight into your hands. No, it’s not cheap. But this tanning lotion delivers a beautiful tan that is water-resistant, even, and devoid of any streaking.
The formula is smooth to use and customers love how it makes their skin glow: perfect, natural, luxurious tan. This product is worth splurging on, especially if you’re into high-quality tanning products that have staying power and promise robust results!
Customers who have been loyal to the brand have raved about how the tanning lotion does what it promises, and keeps your skin moisturized and smooth. Users love how it doesn’t burn their skin, and that the tan lasts for quite a long time without fading or streaking!
However, this product does not contain any sunscreen or SPF. This means you need a separate sunscreen to keep your skin protected
The Maui Babe Browning Lotion delivers what it promises – amazingly tanned skin! With just a bit of product, your skin will transform into a lovely bronze hue that lasts for a long time.
And the best part is that the formula is water-resistant! Meaning you can take a dip in the sea without worrying that your tan will come off.
However, don’t forget to layer sunscreen on top of the product! See how do tanning oils work for more info.
Key Points at a Glance
- Browning lotion
- Seals your tan
- Water-resistant formula
- Doesn’t include sun protection
- THE HAWAIIAN SECRET TO SEAL IN YOUR...
- GREAT MOISTURIZING & HEALING ACTION FOR...
- NATURAL HAWAIIAN INGREDIENTS FOR PROVEN...
- [PACK OF 2] LOVELY COCONUT SCENT & RICH,...
- MADE IN THE USA – FROM HAWAII, TO ALL...
Runner-Up: Devoted Creations Somewhere on a Beach
Made from DHA-free bronzers to produce a flawless tan, the formula combines ingredients which help to improve signs of aging and produce a great tan. Infused with Coconut oil and Sea Buckthorn Berry, this powerful tanning lotion leaves behind a sun-kissed glow over skin that’s healthy and supple.
Customers love the lovely tan they get after using the lotion outdoors. Many customers find that it is much better than using a tanning bed. The fragrance is also really pleasant and the tanning lotion is great to use on sensitive skin, too.
Producing amazing results in a short time, this is one of the best tanning lotions out there. Whether you choose to wear it in the great outdoors or inside, it’s got treat transfer resistibility and lasts for 2 – 3 days on your skin!
Devoted Creations’ excellent beach tanning lotion will give you the glow of your dreams while keeping your skin nourished, soft and protected.
However this stuff has no sunscreen in it, so you’ll get no protection. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen after this product to be safe!
Key Points at a Glance
- Great anti-aging formula
- Great for indoor and outdoor use
- Contains moisturizing oils
- Does not include any sunscreen
- Somewhere on a Beach, Indoor Outdoor, Instant Dark...
- DHA-Free bronzers provide streak free/stain free...
- Coconut & Walnut Oils provide skin softening and...
- Can be used indoor/outdoor. FreshTek deodorizes...
- Fragrance: Tropical Tantini Product Actions: Tan...
Budget Pick: Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Oil w SPF25
Oils are always great for skin – pair that with tanning oil and you got a recipe for perfection! Packed with ingredients to soothe, nourish and keep your skin hydrated, this tanning oil is made from natural tanners to enhance your skin’s natural pigment till it resembles a bronze goddess’s!
This Island Tanning Oil is a great buy. Users love the deep shade it leaves, and the variety of sun-protection options. And the best part is that the tanning oil is infused with Vitamins A, C and E to provide all-rounder skin protection!
You can choose a version with no sun protection if you prefer to use a separate sunscreen. Alternately, you can choose different levels of SPF, from 6-25. The sunscreen included is broad spectrum.
Hawaiian Tropic’s oil also contains natural extracts of Papaya, Aloe, Mango, and other natural products. The oil-formula is enriched with Vitamins A, C and E to help keep your skin nourished, soft and protected from the damage of free radicals and UVA and UVB exposure.
The reef safe tanning product is made without any toxic ingredients, making it safe for use on sensitive skins. It is also great for those with fair skin. Customers love the resulting tan as it helps them achieve a tan without the damaging effects.
This Amazon’s Choice product is one of the best tanning products out there. An absolute hit with those who have fair skin, this product is great whether used on the beach or off it. As it leaves the skin with a bronze, golden glow, users often repurchase it to add some color to their skin.
As mentioned above, pay attention to the SPF of the option you choose. If you choose one with little or no sunscreen, you’ll need to supplement with your own.
Key Points at a Glance
- Natural tanning oils
- Contains antioxidants
- Moisturizing formula
- Available in 4 options, with SPF levels from SPF0-SPF25
- SPF 25 PROTECTIVE TANNING OIL SPRAY WITH...
- HAWAIIAN TROPIC ISLAND TANNING SPRAY...
- ENHANCES YOUR TAN — Hawaiian Tropic...
- WATER RESISTANT up to 80 minutes
- ICONIC HAWAIIAN TROPIC SCENT — This...
Dark and Protected: Sun Bum Tanning Lotion and Oil
No products found.Delivering what it promises, this tanning lotion kit is packed with oils like Avocado, Marula, Argan and Coconut to moisturize your skin. It is also infused with aloe vera and green tea butter to provide antioxidants to your skin to protect it from sun damage. And it also has broad-spectrum sun protection at SPF-15.
Sweet combination!
Accelerating the sun-triggered tanning, this amazing kit keeps your skin hydrated and protected when you are out in the sun or bathing in the sea.
It’s a great way to get a tan while avoiding the harsh effects like sunburn, dry skin, itchiness, and wrinkles!
Sun Bum is a cheeky, fun brand of tanning and sun-protection products. Their lotions have long made a name for themselves for their uber-cool ingredients and great tanning results.
If you’re looking for a beautiful golden glow, then this product is for you!
Get your Sun Bum tanning lotion kit here on Amazon and enjoy the beauty of a golden bronze tan!
Just remember than an SPF-15 is a bit on the low side, so you should reapply the sunscreen regularly.
Key Points at a Glance
- Formulated with natural oils
- Quick tan
- Golden glow
- Includes broad-spectrum SPF-15 sunscreen
No products found.
Low SPF Formula: Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion
The Panama Jack Sunscreen Tanning Lotion is an attempt to blend a little bit of sun protection with a dark tanning lotion. The sunscreen in this product is only an SPF 8, which means it doesn’t block a great deal of UV rays, and it’s not broad-spectrum.
The Sunscreen Tanning Lotion seeks to balance protection with a glowing tan, and it does a decent job at that and will block sunburn (the worst outcome).
This multi-action formula is packed with antioxidants to protect your skin from UVA, UVB, and sun damage. At the same time, the moisturizers work to keep your skin hydrated, supple, and plump. The tanning lotions help you achieve a stunning tan without any parabens, toxins or other harsh chemicals that could harm your skin, making it a reef-safe product.
Customers love that it’s cruelty-free and works great on normal and combination skin. It spreads easily, is water-resistant, and has a pleasant fragrance.
This Panama Jack tanning lotion is great to carry around for touch-ups, and the moisturizers in the products are great to help the tan stay longer on your skin.
The FDA advises a minimum of SPF-15 with broad-spectrum coverage. This doesn’t meet that (relatively low) requirement.
It does provide some sun protection, but you should really this more often given its low SPF, or wear another sunscreen as well.
Key Points at a Glance
- Contains antioxidants
- Moisturizing formula
- Water-resistant
- Includes SPF-8 sunscreen
- NEW LOOK, SAME GREAT FORMULA: Our...
- DESIGNED FOR SUN LOVERS: Helping to...
- CONTAINS MINIMAL SUNSCREEN: With SPF 8...
- 6 FL OZ (177 mL) easy-to-grip...
- SUN PROTECTION MEASURES: This product...
Other Products We Looked At:
Coppertone Glow Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion
Containing SPF 30 and packed in an uber-cute tube, this tanning lotion is devoid of any toxic chemicals that could harm your skin. Water-resistant up to 40 minutes, this tanning lotion leaves your skin with a stunning golden bronze glow when applied and thanks to its emollients, it leaves your skin feeling silky and smooth.
That said, you should reapply after you go in the water, especially if you dry off with a towel. It’s water-resistant, not towel-resistant!
The fast-drying formula contains minerals that keep your skin nourished and broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides shelter from UVA and UVB rays. And its paraben-free formula is great to use on even the most sensitive of skins.
Customers love how it lets your skin breathe while delivering the results it promises!
This cost-friendly tanning lotion is great for daily use as a tinted sunscreen and can be reapplied without compromising on the tan. Female customers love the gold particles in the formula that make it great for evening wear and as makeup.
Super cute and fun to wear, get your Coppertone Glow tanning lotion from Amazon now for shimmery, bronzy and illuminated skin.
Key Points at a Glance
- Contains broad-spectrum SPF 30
- Free of toxic ingredients
- Water-resistant
Australian Gold Sunscreen Lotion
Containing antioxidants and moisturizers like Kakadu Plum, Aloe vera and Tea Tree Oil, this bronzing lotion contains the best of Australian ingredients to produce the perfect tan on your skin while keeping you well protected from the sun.
There are several different formats of this lotion available, you can choose the level of sunburn protection and skin tone that’s right for your skin.
Endorsed by dermatologists, customers almost universally have a great experience with this product. Many love it for their kids! It looks good, gets you tan, and provides sun protection.
The tanning lotion even smells great and works like tinted sunscreen. It gives your skin a golden bronze hue, which makes it ideal for daily use! Some users love it so much that it becomes a part of the daily makeup routine.
Aussie Gold is a reliable brand, and we love the way they have packaged their tanning lotion and sunscreen in this setup.
Cheap, water-resistant and friendly on the skin, it’s a great tanning lotion to wear to the beach or even to an evening barbeque!
Key Points at a Glance
- Oil-free, non-greasy formula
- Contains antioxidants
- Water-resistant
- Most formats include sunscreens
Maui Island Secret Browning Formula
This is one of the best deep tanning lotions out there. The Browning Formula contains amazing ingredients like Kukui Nut Oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Maui Coffee Bean Extract, Green Tea, Aloe and many more natural products that promote a natural tan while keeping your skin protected, hydrated and nourished.
Made from the best ingredients, this tanning lotion has made innumerable customers happy with its deep tan. The tanning lotion formula also protects skin from drying out in the heat and also protects from sunburns! Customers love that it helps them tan quicker in the sun, and all they need to do is slather this tanning lotion and then quickly apply some additional sunscreen.
Maui Island’s Secret Lotion is great for those with super dry skin or mature skin. With antioxidants and emollients, not only will your skin glow like a bronze goddess, but you will also be protected from environmental factors.
Get your bottle of the Secret Browning Formula now! Made from natural ingredients and smelling like heaven, it’s the closest you’ll get to the Hawaiian tan!
Just remember to apply some sunscreen after, as this has no SPF.
Key Points at a Glance
- Long-lasting tan
- Made from natural ingredients
- Hydrating
- Does not include sunscreen
Conclusion
Tanning lotions are the best way to maximize your tan while soaking up the rays at the beach. They’re also super easy to carry around, so you can touch up exposed skin to look even, bronze, and beautiful.
However, care must be taken when using tanning products. After your tanning lotion has dried and set, it’s important you use a broad spectrum SPF, at least SPF 25, before going into the sun.
The ingredients in tanning lotions encourage the tanning process when your skin is exposed to the sun, leaving you vulnerable to UVA and UVB damage.
So slather your tanning lotion, wait for it to dry, and top it off with sunscreen if necessary!
