What tanning products do is accelerate and boost the whole tanning process. The thing about tanning lotions is that they’re responsible for developing a natural-looking bronzed look quicker. And they also make sure the tan lasts for a longer time. Thanks to the special ingredients present in these formulas.
The special ingredients, more often than not, are vitamins, natural extracts, antioxidants, etc. Then there are chemical or artificial ingredients too. Like drying alcohol, fragrances, preservatives, and the like. And sometimes what happens is that those with sensitive skin are compelled to deal with acne breakouts or skin irritation because of the latter.
But the good news is that there are the best tanning lotions for sensitive skin that are hypoallergenic, meaning infused with skin-friendly, natural and/or organic ingredients. So if your skin type is sensitive or even extremely sensitive and you want to tan, then you can with these top 9 tanning lotions I’ve reviewed below.
9 Top-Rated Tanning Lotions for Sensitive Skin
1. Supre Tan Hempz Dark Tan Maximizer
It shouldn’t come as a surprise to find out that the first on the list is the best hypoallergenic tanning lotion specifically designed for sensitive skin. This tanning maximizer by Supre Tan is the perfect solution for those with sensitive skin who want access to dark tanning effects.
The blend is intensely hydrating, no two ways about that. It’s got the pure and natural version of hemp seed oil. This particular ingredient is responsible for infusing moisture into your skin. And the thing about moisture is that it helps in promoting a longer-lasting tan.
As for your skin sensitivities, natural soothing ingredients manage that aspect very well. These include oatmeal and mango seed butter. The former comforts and soothes while the latter hydrates and brings about a radiant-looking, smooth glow.
There’s no weird smell. On top of that, the tanning lotion absorbs well. It’s fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, 100% vegan, nut-free, and gluten-free. What more could you, with sensitive skin, have asked for, right!
2. Hempz Dark DHA Bronzer
Now it’s time for me to review the best outdoor tanning lotion for sensitive skin. The tanning bronzer, first of all, is hypoallergenic. The hypoallergenic label matters when your skin type is sensitive or delicate. It also works wonders for fair-skinned tanning enthusiasts. The result, no matter your skin tone or type, is always dark bronzed.
The formulation is intensely hydrating, just like the previous one. So it’s equipped with natural, pure hemp seed oil for providing moisture that promotes a longer-lasting tan. The calming ingredients, in this case, are chamomile and oatmeal. They soothe your skin sensitivities during and after the tanning process.
Mango seed butter is also added to this tanning lotion. The hydration mango seed butter delivers makes the skin look more radiant and smoother. Not many tanning bronzers have the ability to do that you know, let alone tanning bronzers for sensitive skin.
Now it’s time to talk about the elephant in the room. DHA is a part of this tanning lotion. So if you’re not so keen on exposing your skin to dihydroxyacetone, then you might want to pick another tanning lotion. But you should know that other natural bronzers are also included. So the outcome is an instant tan that keeps developing over time. And that is THE priority, isn’t it?
Then there’s the lightweight, non-greasy texture of the Hempz tanning lotion. It gets absorbed into the skin very quickly. Your skin is bound to develop a dark tan with zero streaks, even if you have fair skin. And this speaks highly of the Hempz bronzer.
3. Devoted Creations #TANLIFE Hydrating Tanning Butter
Just the fact that this is a tanning butter means a lot when it comes to tanning sensitive skin. To top it off, this best tanning bed lotion is hypoallergenic too. But let’s go back to talking about the inclusion of shea butter.
What shea butter does is a WHOLE LOT. It contains fatty acids and vitamins that do a wonderful job of softening the skin. Shea butter also has excellent healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
When you use shea butter on your body, expect the natural ingredient to soothe and moisturize your skin like no other. The moisturizing is good for creating a deeper, longer-lasting tan. And the soothing is great for those with sensitive skin. What’s even more enticing is that the rich, thick butter softly melts into your skin.
Furthermore, the tanning lotion contains advanced Matrixyl Synthe 6 and RevitaFit Body Fit. These two bring into the picture skin-firming and anti-aging benefits. On top of that, there’s AcquaCell for controlling wrinkles and fine lines.
And that’s not it. The hydrating tanning butter also delivers tattoo fade protection. Needless to say, the tanning product here is truly amazing.
4. Devoted Creations Limited Couture Hypoallergenic Tanning Crème Oil
We’re almost halfway through and I’m reviewing yet another tanning lotion by Devoted Creations. But this one’s a dark tanning oil, unlike the Devoted Creations tanning butter I reviewed before. The hypoallergenic tanning oil is actually a blend of macadamia oil and coconut oil. What these two do is improve the appearance of dull skin.
Macadamia and coconut oil also make your skin look younger and healthy. The formulation is not just hypoallergenic, but it also comes with zero artificial fragrances and parabens. So your sensitive skin is in safe hands, without the shadow of a doubt.
Speaking of which, the tanning oil is highly praised for its hypoallergenic properties. You could be allergic to artificial fragrances and parabens and still not worry about a thing with this tanning product.
The formula is generously moisturizing just to be clear. So tanning deeper and faster is a possibility. And the best part is that you’re not left to deal with an unpleasant tanning odor or burnt skin. It’s a better choice in every aspect.
5. Devoted Creations H.I.M. Titanium Bronzer
The best tanning lotion tanning bed for men goes to the H.I.M. Titanium Bronzer once again by Devoted Creations. The tanning bronzer creates an even dark shade every single time. The bronzed tan you get is ultra-dark. And that too with tattoo fade protection.
The tanning lotion is equipped with avocado extracts, which is the ingredient that sensitive skin demands. Avocado extracts help in dealing with skin redness because of any possible irritation or burns.
As for the consistency of the bronzer, it’s non-greasy in case you’re wondering. It’s a lightweight lotion ideal for sensitive skin. The bronzing agents are DHA to help you get darker quickly. To be honest, there aren’t that many male-specific tanning lotions out there. So when you find one, you should make it a point to seize the golden opportunity.
6. Vita Liberata Organic Gradual Self Tanning Lotion
Vita Liberata Advanced Organics has managed to develop the best indoor tanning lotion in the form of a self-tanner. Meaning you don’t need to expose your skin to the harmful UV rays of the sun or the tanning bed. You can now achieve that perfect sun-kissed glow simply by applying this organic tanning lotion.
The formulation is packed with a lot of hydration, much like any good moisturizer. But why is that? It’s because well-moisturized and well-hydrated skin creates a deeper, smoother, and longer-lasting tan.
It’s a gentle tanning lotion ideal for the most sensitive skin and even dry skin. The natural-looking color it produces fades evenly after around 4-7 days. The ingredients used are all certified organic. So there are no artificial fragrances, alcohols, parabens, and other such toxins.
The first organic ingredient is aloe vera. It’s for moisturizing, hydrating, and firming the skin. The second is lychee, which provides your skin with antioxidants and offers anti-aging benefits too. Then there’s licorice for reducing any possible inflammation caused by the tanning process. And lastly, raspberry is also added for more skin conditioning and antioxidants.
Needless to say, the self-tanning lotion is more than just well-equipped to handle skin sensitivities. And to bring about a natural-looking sun-kissed glow without the sun or tanning bed.
7. Tanovations The It List Hypoallergenic Vegan Tanning Lotion
This product falls in the category of the best tanning lotion for sensitive skin tanning bed. And also in the category of the best vegan tanning lotion. Obviously, it’s a hypoallergenic formula perfect for sensitive skin too. The product has no parabens, wheat, oil, nut, and gluten.
The tanning lotion has the capacity to darken your skin without exposing it to any chemicals or artificial bronzing agents. And that’s the most appealing quality, isn’t it? In the case of tanning, whether your skin is sensitive, dry, or acne-prone, it’s always a better idea to tan safely with skin-friendly, natural ingredients. So that’s what you get here.
Moreover, not many vegan tanning lotions smell as exquisite as this one. And don’t worry, the strong scent doesn’t cause any breakouts or skin irritation. It’s a non-greasy formula that gets absorbed into your skin very quickly. So now you understand why I highly recommend this option for those living a vegan lifestyle.
8. ArtNaturals Sunless Self-Tanner Lotion
After Vita Liberata, ArtNaturals excels at providing safe tanning enthusiasts with the best self-tanner for sensitive skin. This sunless tanning lotion is loaded with natural extracts that tan, hydrate, and soothe your sensitive skin.
The plant extracts, flower oils, shea butter, and natural ingredients produce that perfect summer glow you’ve been craving without aggravating your skin or worrying about fine lines and wrinkles. You can increase the intensity of the tan by repeating the application.
The flower oils I mentioned earlier include safflower oil and jojoba oil along with sweet almond oil. So you don’t have to worry about skin nourishment during tanning either. As for the plant extracts, the tanning lotion consists of chamomile and calendula. Along with shea butter, these two deliver the much-needed hydration for healthy skin and longer-lasting, deeper tan.
Green tea extracts are infused into the formulation as well. These rejuvenate your skin while also fighting signs of aging. And to make matters even better, the tanning lotion gets absorbed into your skin pretty quickly. That means it dries easily and evenly without streaking.
A good tan is essential. But so is using natural, cruelty-free tanning products. In that case, your sensitive skin is in for a treat.
9. Jubujub Swedish Beauty Shea You Love Me Natural Dark Tanning
What’s pretty obvious is that this dark tanning lotion is equipped with shea butter. Meaning equipped with the ability to soften your skin. Equipped with the ability to also soothe, heal, and nourish your sensitive skin.
The formula is generously creamy. And, no doubt, it gets your skin prepped for deep, dark tan absorption. You can use it even if your skin type is not sensitive. The tanning lotion is designed for all skin types just by the way.
It’s a bit surprising that a simple tanning product like this helps in preventing fine lines and wrinkles as well. It may be surprising but it’s 100% true. Speaking of simple, in my opinion, this is a great tanning lotion for a beginner. It moisturizers well and creates the perfect brown color.
Your skin is bound to feel soft after the tanning process. No matter how dry or sensitive!
What Ingredients to Look for and What to Avoid in Tanning Lotions for Sensitive Skin
The most crucial aspect here is to avoid DHA or dihydroxyacetone. Many tanning lotions are equipped with DHA as this chemical is a coloring or bronzing agent. It’s what gives your skin the glowing, sun-kissed complexion.
Generally speaking, DHA is not harmful or dangerous. But this applies only to those who don’t have to deal with skin sensitivities. So if your skin type is even slightly sensitive, then it’s best to stay away from tanning formulations armed with DHA. You should know that there are plenty of tanning lotions with natural coloring or bronzing alternatives as well.
So no matter how enthusiastic you are about tanning, know that DHA gives rise to acne breakouts, skin redness, irritation, and the like. Along the same lines, stay away from artificial fragrances, parabens, phenoxyethanol, and other such preservatives. These too cause skin rashes.
As for what ingredients to look for, the list is quite long. And it’s all-natural by the way. I have reviewed many tanning lotions for sensitive skin that are infused with shea butter, jojoba oil, avocado, oatmeal, green tea extracts, macadamia oil, aloe vera, chamomile, calendula, and more. These ingredients are 100% natural and 100% sensitive skin-friendly.
In fact, elements like oatmeal, chamomile, calendula, etc. provide skin soothing and calming benefits. And that’s something your sensitive skin demands during and even after the tanning process.
Most Useful Tips for Tanning Sensitive Skin
To be honest, the instructions below apply to every skin type. As long as you follow them, you’re highly likely to be satisfied with your tanning experience. You just have to make sure you pick the right tanning lotion suitable for sensitive skin.
Exfoliation
Exfoliating your skin prior to your tanning session is a must. Don’t neglect this step as exfoliation helps in getting rid of dead skin cells. When you get rid of dead skin cells, you can achieve a deeper, longer-lasting, smoother, and more even tan.
Also, focus more on thick skin areas like your ankles, knees, and elbows.
Proper Application
You don’t just apply the tanning lotion at random. Instead, you’re supposed to massage the formula into the skin using circular motions. And apply it in sections, not all at once. Start with one part of your body and then move on to the next. Such as your torso, arms, and then legs.
Take Extra Care Around the Jointed Areas
These jointed areas consist of your ankles, elbows, and knees. They have the ability to absorb more, so you have to dilute the effect by gently wiping off the lotion using a damp towel. Or you can just reduce the amount of tanning lotion you apply to these areas.
Wait for the Tanning Lotion to Dry
After you apply the tanning lotion, wait for 10 to 15 minutes before you get dressed.
Also, go for loose clothing. Another relevant useful tip is to stay away from the rain or activities that might cause sweating.
Don’t Over-Indulge in Tanning
It’s important for you to understand that over-tanning causes skin damage. So when your skin type is already sensitive, the damage can be quite severe. Whatever tanning method you choose, make sure you follow the instructions provided by the brand of the tanning product.
Please note that different manufacturers offer different instructions. So read through them first and follow them diligently to prevent adverse effects.
The End
So you don’t wish to expose your sensitive skin to the harmful chemicals or artificial fragrances commonly added to tanning lotions? If yes, then you have a choice. And that is to pick tanning formulas full of natural, skin-friendly ingredients.
I have reviewed the top 10 choices in this post. They’re more than just well-equipped to soothe, hydrate, nourish, and tan sensitive skin. And without giving rise to any flare-ups, redness, or irritation.
