Why Your Lotion Choice Matters

Sunbeds give you UVA/UVB exposure to kick-start melanin production, but the right lotion will:

Boost melanin activation for faster, deeper colour.
Hydrate and protect so your tan fades more evenly.
Nourish to prevent dryness, flakiness, and patchiness.

1. Prep Your Skin for Success

Exfoliate 24 hours before your session. A gentle scrub or mitt removes dead cells and reveals fresh skin, so lotion soaks in evenly.
Shower and pat dry—never apply on damp skin (it dilutes the active ingredients).

2. Choose a Lotion Suited to Your Skin & Goals

Enhancers (Intensifiers): Contain DHA or tan-activating boosters to deepen colour.
Accelerators: Packed with tyrosine and vitamins to speed up melanin production.
Moisturisers/Aftercare: Use post-bed to lock in hydration and extend your glow.

For sensitive skin, pick fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas. If you burn easily, choose lower-factor or skin-soothing blends.

3. Applying Your Sunbed Tanning Lotion

Squeeze a nickel- to quarter-sized amount into your hand.
Dot across forehead, cheeks, chest, arms, legs and body.
Rub in circular motions—work quickly but thoroughly, covering all areas.
Wash hands immediately to prevent uneven palms or stain marks.
Dress loosely (cotton or satin) and avoid sweating for at least 30 minutes.

4. Timing & Frequency

First session: Start low—8–10 minutes—so your skin builds a base tan gradually.
Subsequent sessions: Increase by 1–2 minutes, but stay within the lotion’s recommended max.
Rest days: Give skin at least 48 hours between sessions to recuperate and tan optimally.

5. Post-Session Care

Cool shower—no harsh soaps.
Apply an after-tan moisturiser within 30 minutes to lock in hydration.
Drink plenty of water to keep skin plump and tan vibrant.
Avoid heavy exfoliation for at least 3 – 5 days.

Top 5 Recommended Sunbed Tanning Lotions

Lotion / Cream	Key Benefits
1. So Damn Tanned Velvet Vibes Accelerator!	Deep hydration with aloe vera & shea butter; prolongs your glow.
2. So Damn Tanned Summer Dreams! Intense Accelerator	High-power tyrosine complex for rapid colour build-up; silky feel.
3. Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion	Natural bronzers with vitamin E; perfect for sensitive skin.
4. Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Firming Tanning Lotion	Coconut scent, firming peptides; nourishes and scents skin.
5. Tan Asz U Man-Tan Intensifier	Ultra-dark bronzers; rich antioxidant blend to protect skin.

Tip: Always patch-test a new lotion on your inner arm 24 hours before full-body use, to rule out any reaction.

Ready to Glow?

Using the right sunbed tanning lotion—and applying it correctly—will take your tan from “good” to “great.” Try one of our So Damn Tanned picks for guaranteed delicious colour, and remember: consistency, hydration, and skin health are your best friends.

Book your next session today and don’t forget your So Damn Tanned lotion for maximum impact!