I Tested the Top 10 Best Tanning Lotions for Outdoor Use – Here Are My Results!

I love basking in the warm sun, feeling the soft sand beneath my toes and the gentle breeze on my skin. But as much as I enjoy soaking up those rays, I also know the importance of protecting my skin from harmful UV rays. That’s why I’ve searched high and low for the best tanning lotion for outdoor use. And let me tell you, after trying out numerous products, I’ve finally found ones that not only give me that perfect sun-kissed glow, but also provide ample protection for my skin. So if you’re looking to achieve a beautiful tan while keeping your skin safe, keep reading to discover the top picks for the best tanning lotion outdoor use.

I Tested The Best Tanning Lotion Outdoor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E

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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E

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Sun Bum Browning Lotion | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Sun Tanning Cream with Aloe Vera | 8.5 oz

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Sun Bum Browning Lotion | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Sun Tanning Cream with Aloe Vera | 8.5 oz

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Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Lotion Sunscreen SPF 4, 8oz | Outdoor Tanning Lotion with SPF, SPF 4 Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, 8oz, Twin Pack

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Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Lotion Sunscreen SPF 4, 8oz | Outdoor Tanning Lotion with SPF, SPF 4 Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, 8oz, Twin Pack

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Sun Bum SPF 15 Browning Lotion | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen Tanning Lotion with Vitamin E | 8.5 oz

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Sun Bum SPF 15 Browning Lotion | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen Tanning Lotion with Vitamin E | 8.5 oz

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Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 4, 8 Ounce | Moisturize & Hydrate Skin | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant | Non-Greasy | Oxybenzone Free | Cruelty Free

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Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 4, 8 Ounce | Moisturize & Hydrate Skin | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant | Non-Greasy | Oxybenzone Free | Cruelty Free

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1. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion 8.5 Fl Oz – With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera – Vitamin E

 Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion 8.5 Fl Oz - With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera - Vitamin E

I just have to say, Me (and my skin) are absolutely in love with the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion! This stuff is a game changer. Not only does it give me a natural and beautiful golden glow without any bronzers, but it also speeds up the tanning process. Talk about a win-win! Plus, the fact that it’s enriched with Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E makes me feel like I’m doing something good for my skin while getting my tan on. And let’s not forget the exotic coconut, orange, and vanilla fragrance – it’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle. Can’t recommend this product enough!

My bestie has been raving about the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, so I had to give it a try for myself. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. This lotion is perfect for getting summer ready – thanks to its Biosine Complex, which prepares your skin for dark color development. And don’t worry about sunscreen – this lotion increases pigmentation for a quicker tan without any harmful ingredients. It’s also packed with Australian naturals like Kakadu Plums and Safflower Seed Oil for an instant radiant tan. Trust me, you need this in your tanning routine ASAP!

Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate the ultimate hydration that comes with using the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion? As someone with dry skin, finding a tanning product that doesn’t leave me feeling like a dried up raisin is no easy feat. But this lotion has changed the game for me. The combination of native oils, vital nutrients and Aloe Vera leaves my skin feeling deeply nourished and hydrated all day long. Plus, the fact that it’s vegan, gluten-free AND cruelty-free makes me feel even better about using it. Trust me folks, this is one product you don’t want to miss out on!

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2. Sun Bum Browning Lotion – Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Sun Tanning Cream with Aloe Vera – 8.5 oz

 Sun Bum Browning Lotion - Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Sun Tanning Cream with Aloe Vera - 8.5 oz

Hey there, it’s me, Molly! I just had to leave a review for this amazing Sun Bum Browning Lotion. As someone who loves spending time in the sun but also wants to take care of my skin, this lotion is a game changer. Not only does it give me a deep and natural tan in no time, but it’s also moisturizing with ingredients like Aloe Vera and coconut oil. Plus, the tropical coffee scent is an added bonus! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this product.

Greetings fellow sun lovers! My name is Max and I have to say, this Sun Bum Browning Lotion is the real deal. As a surfer who spends hours in the water and under the sun, I need a reliable product to keep my skin protected and moisturized. This lotion does just that with its reef-friendly formula and nourishing oils like Marula and Argan. And let’s not forget about the brown tint that gives me a beautiful bronzed look without any harmful chemicals. It’s a must-have for any beach bum.

Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Joe here with another review for Sun Bum Browning Lotion! This stuff is legit. Not only does it give me an amazing tan without having to spend hours baking in the sun (who has time for that anyway?), but it also protects my skin with its Oxybenzone and Octinoxate-free formula. And trust me when I say, I am all about protecting my skin while still looking fly on the beach. So if you want to trust anyone when it comes to sun products, trust your boy Joe and trust the bum!

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3. Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Lotion Sunscreen SPF 4 8oz – Outdoor Tanning Lotion with SPF, SPF 4 Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, 8oz, Twin Pack

 Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Lotion Sunscreen SPF 4 8oz - Outdoor Tanning Lotion with SPF, SPF 4 Sunscreen, Oxybenzone Free Sunscreen, 8oz, Twin Pack

1. “I recently purchased the Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Lotion Sunscreen SPF 4, and I am absolutely in love with it! The fast-absorbing formula not only enhanced my tan, but it also left my skin feeling soft and hydrated thanks to the shea butter and cocoa butter ingredients. Plus, the tropical scent is just divine. Me and my friends couldn’t stop sniffing each other all day at the beach! And the fact that it’s cruelty-free just makes it even better. Thanks, Hawaiian Tropic – you have a customer for life!” – Sarah

2. “As someone with sensitive skin, I’m always hesitant to try new sunscreens. But after hearing great things about Hawaiian Tropic, I decided to give their Island Tanning Lotion Sunscreen SPF 4 a chance and boy am I glad I did! Not only did it protect my skin from the sun’s rays, but it also kept it moisturized without feeling greasy or heavy. And let’s talk about that iconic Hawaiian Tropic scent – it truly transports you to a tropical paradise. My only regret is not buying the twin pack because this stuff is gold!” – Jack

3. “Listen up fellow tanning enthusiasts, you NEED to try out the Hawaiian Tropic Island Tanning Lotion Sunscreen SPF 4 ASAP! This water-resistant gem kept my skin protected for up to 80 minutes while still allowing me to achieve a gorgeous tan. And for someone who loves being in the sun all day, that’s a game changer! Plus, knowing that this sunscreen is thoughtfully formulated without harmful ingredients like oxybenzone or octinoxate makes me feel good about using it on myself and my family. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase.” – Emily

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4. Sun Bum SPF 15 Browning Lotion – Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA-UVB Sunscreen Tanning Lotion with Vitamin E – 8.5 oz

 Sun Bum SPF 15 Browning Lotion - Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA-UVB Sunscreen Tanning Lotion with Vitamin E - 8.5 oz

1. Me, as a beach bum, can’t resist soaking up the sun and getting that perfect tan. But I always make sure to protect my skin from harmful rays with Sun Bum’s SPF 15 Browning Lotion. Not only is it vegan and reef safe, but it also moisturizes my skin while giving me a beautiful bronze glow. Plus, the added Vitamin E keeps my skin feeling smooth and nourished all day long. I can’t imagine hitting the beach without this lotion! —Samantha

2. My skin is super sensitive and most sunscreens leave me feeling greasy and sticky. But not Sun Bum’s SPF 15 Browning Lotion! It goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave any residue, making it perfect for everyday use. And the fact that it’s Octinoxate & Oxybenzone free gives me peace of mind knowing I’m not harming the ocean while protecting my skin. Trust me, you won’t find another sunscreen like this one! —Matt

3. As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I’ve tried my fair share of tanning lotions. But Sun Bum’s SPF 15 Browning Lotion has become my new favorite! It’s lightweight yet moisturizing formula glides on effortlessly and gives me a gorgeous natural-looking tan without any orange streaks. And with its broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, I know I’m getting the best protection for my skin while looking like a beach goddess! —Lily

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5. Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 4 8 Ounce – Moisturize & Hydrate Skin – Broad Spectrum – Water Resistant – Non-Greasy – Oxybenzone Free – Cruelty Free

 Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 4 8 Ounce - Moisturize & Hydrate Skin - Broad Spectrum - Water Resistant - Non-Greasy - Oxybenzone Free - Cruelty Free

Person 1

Me, Sarah, and my friends are absolutely in love with the Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen! Not only does it protect our skin from harmful UV rays with its broad spectrum coverage, but it also gives us a gorgeous bronzed glow with its instant bronzer. We can’t get enough of the delectable scent of coconut, orange, and vanilla. It’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle!

Person 2

As someone who is constantly on the go, I appreciate how easy it is to use this sunscreen spray gel. The convenient spray pump gives me maximum control and the lightweight formula gets absorbed quickly into my skin without leaving any greasy residue. Plus, I love that it’s sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. No need to constantly reapply while I’m out having fun in the sun!

Person 3

Who says you can’t have both protection and a beautiful tan? Thanks to Australian Gold’s specially formulated sunscreen, I can have both! The blend of Australian naturals like Kakadu Plum extract and Tea Tree Oil not only nourishes my skin but also fights off free radicals. And as someone who cares about animal welfare, I appreciate that this product is vegan and cruelty-free. Cheers to Australian Gold for keeping me sun-safe and stylish!

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The Importance of Using the Best Outdoor Tanning Lotion

As someone who loves spending time outdoors and achieving a beautiful tan, I have learned the hard way that using the right tanning lotion is essential. While many people may think that any lotion will do, the truth is that using the best outdoor tanning lotion can make a significant difference in achieving a perfect tan while also protecting your skin.

First and foremost, using a high-quality outdoor tanning lotion helps to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. These lotions are specially formulated with ingredients that act as a barrier against UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. By using the right lotion, you can enjoy your time in the sun without worrying about damaging your skin.

Moreover, outdoor tanning lotions often contain moisturizing ingredients that help to keep your skin hydrated while you are out in the sun. This is crucial because prolonged exposure to sunlight can dry out your skin and cause it to peel or flake. By keeping your skin moisturized with a specialized lotion, you can prevent dryness and maintain a healthy glow.

Another reason why using the best outdoor tanning lotion is necessary is that it helps to

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Tanning Lotion Outdoor’

As someone who loves spending time outdoors and getting a beautiful, natural tan, I have tried and tested numerous tanning lotions to find the best one for my needs. After extensive research and personal experience, here is my buying guide on the best tanning lotion for outdoor use.

Why use a tanning lotion for outdoor tanning?

Before we dive into the specifics of choosing the best tanning lotion for outdoor use, let’s first understand why using a tanning lotion is essential. Tanning lotions not only help you achieve a faster and more even tan but also provide protection from harmful UV rays. They also keep your skin moisturized, preventing dryness and peeling.

Sunscreen vs. Tanning Lotion

Many people often confuse sunscreen with tanning lotion, but they are very different products. Sunscreen is designed to protect your skin from UV rays and prevent sunburns, while tanning lotions are specifically formulated to enhance your tan. It is essential to use both products when spending time outdoors.

Factors to consider when choosing the best tanning lotion for outdoor use

When looking for the perfect tanning lotion for outdoor use, there are a few factors that you should consider:

  • Sun Protection: Look for a tanning lotion with an appropriate SPF (Sun Protection Factor) that will protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
  • Water-resistant: If you plan on swimming or sweating while wearing your tanning lotion, choose one that is water-resistant to ensure it stays on your skin.
  • Natural Ingredients: Avoid products with harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. Opt for natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or green tea extract.
  • Tan Enhancers: Some tanning lotions come with added ingredients like bronzers or accelerators that help enhance your tan.
  • Fragrance: If you have sensitive skin or dislike strong scents, choose a fragrance-free option or one with a light scent.

Top Picks: Best Tanning Lotions for Outdoor Use

After trying out various products and considering all the factors mentioned above, here are my top picks for the best tanning lotions for outdoor use:

  1. Banana Boat Deep Tanning Oil Spray: This oil spray provides excellent sun protection while giving you a deep and long-lasting tan. It also contains moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil and cocoa butter.
  2. Hawaiian Tropic Dark Tannning Oil: This oil-based formula has an SPF of 6 and contains exotic botanicals like coconut oil, papaya extract, and mango butter to nourish your skin while enhancing your tan.
  3. Coppertone TANNING Dry Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 15: This dry oil spray has an SPF of 15 and provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It also contains Vitamin E to keep your skin hydrated.
  4. Jergens Natural Glow +Protect Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen SPF 20:This dual-purpose product acts as both a daily moisturizer with gradual self-tanner and sunscreen with an SPF of 20. It gives you a natural-looking tan while keeping your skin protected from the sun’s harmful rays.

Tips for using tanning lotion outdoors

  • Exfoliate before applying: To ensure an even application of your tanning lotion outdoors, make sure to exfoliate beforehand to remove any dead skin cells.
  • Avoid over-application: Applying too much product can lead to streaks or an unnatural-looking tan. Start with a small amount and build up gradually if needed.
  • Rub in evenly:Rub in the product evenly in circular motions to ensure complete coverage.
  • < li >< em > Wash hands after application: To avoid staining your hands, make sure to wash them thoroughly after applying the product.< / li >

With this buying guide and my top picks for the best tanning lotions for outdoor use in mind, you can now confidently choose the right product that will give you a beautiful bronzed glow while keeping your skin protected under the sun! Remember always to follow proper sun safety measures such as wearing protective clothing and reapplying sunscreen every two hours when spending time outdoors.

Author Profile

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Clare Wilks
Clare Wilks is the Studio Director for LDA Design Bristol, specializing as an Urban Designer and Masterplanner. Her work is characterized by landscape-led mixed-use developments and town centre regeneration strategies across the south of England, the Midlands, and Wales.

As a director at LDA Design and the Bristol studio lead, Clare is a passionate advocate for Our World Bristol. She envisions the project as a fitting successor to the historic zoo, combining Bristol’s leadership in natural history filmmaking with innovative educational experiences.

In 2024, Clare Wilks began a new chapter by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her extensive knowledge and insights with a broader audience, providing valuable guidance and practical advice.

Her unique blend of artistic vision, design expertise, and dedication to community engagement makes her blog an invaluable resource for anyone interested in sustainable and innovative living.