Achieving a natural, sun-kissed glow from the comfort of your home is easier than ever with the right indoor tanning lotion. Australian Gold has built a reputation for creating effective formulas that help you develop a deep, golden tan without the need for harsh sun exposure. These lotions are designed to work with your skin, accelerating your natural tanning process while providing essential moisture and nutrients.
Whether you are new to indoor tanning or a seasoned enthusiast, selecting the right product is key to your results. From accelerators that speed up color development to bronzers that provide an instant tint, this roundup covers the best Australian Gold lotions to help you find your perfect match for a radiant, healthy-looking complexion.
Our Top Australian Indoor Tanning Lotion Picks
- Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer
- Australian Gold CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers
- Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion
- Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion, Classic Cocoa Dreams
- Australian Gold Hot! Tanning Lotion
- Australian Gold JWOWW Celebrate Private Reserve Dark Bronzer
- Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 50
- Australian Gold Cheeky Brown Accelerator Tanning Lotion
- Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion with Bronzer
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion With Bronzer
This dark tanning accelerator is formulated to help you achieve a deeper, darker tan. It features an instant bronzer that intensifies your bronze glow from the very first application. The lotion blends effortlessly and absorbs quickly, promoting an even tan whether you are using a sunless tanning method or enjoying the outdoor sun.
Enriched with Australian naturals like Kakadu Plum extract and Tea Tree Oil, this formula fights free radicals while cleansing and smoothing your skin. The proprietary Biosine Complex works to prepare your skin for dark color development, helping to soothe and nourish it for a long-lasting tan. It is important to note this product does not contain sunscreen.
Australian Gold CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator Dark Natural Bronzers
The CHEEKY BROWN Accelerator from Australian Gold is designed to deliver a rich, natural-looking tan. It combines a tan accelerator with dark natural bronzers to help you build color quickly and effectively. This 8.5 oz lotion is a popular choice for use in tanning beds.
This formula works to enhance your skin’s natural tanning process, providing a path to a deeper complexion. The inclusion of bronzers gives you an immediate tint, allowing you to see your glow develop even as the accelerator works on a deeper level for longer-term results.
Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion
For those seeking a natural golden glow without the use of bronzers, this Rapid Tanning Intensifier is an excellent option. It speeds up the tanning process whether you are in a tanning bed or out in the sun, helping you achieve your desired color more quickly.
The formula contains the brand’s Biosine Complex, which prepares your skin for dark color development by increasing pigmentation. Enriched with Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E, this lotion also acts as a powerful antioxidant, fighting free radicals to leave your skin feeling smooth, nourished, and fresh. This product does not contain sunscreen.
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion, Classic Cocoa Dreams
This 2020 formula of the Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion is designed to intensify your golden glow for a darker color payoff. It blends seamlessly with the skin, imparting a beautiful sun-kissed look that is perfect for the beach or a sun bed.
Like other products in the line, it features a rich blend of Australian naturals, including Kakadu Plum extract and Tea Tree Oil, to fight free radicals and cleanse the skin. The Biosine Complex works to prepare your skin for a dark color development, supporting a long-lasting tan. This accelerator does not contain sunscreen.
Australian Gold Hot! Tanning Lotion
The Australian Gold Hot! Tanning Lotion is formulated for maximum tanning energy. It features ingredients known to enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture, which in turn promotes a dark, long-lasting color. This makes it a strong choice for achieving a deep tan.
This lotion is rich in dark tanning omega oils, including Macadamia, KuKui, Olive, and Tea Tree oils, which work together to condition and moisturize the skin. The skincare benefits are enhanced with liposomes and amino acids that deliver moisture deep into the skin, supporting a deeper and darker color development.
Australian Gold JWOWW Celebrate Private Reserve Dark Bronzer
This exclusive Private Reserve dark bronzer is a 10-ounce lotion designed for a luxurious tanning experience. It features an upgraded One and Done Complex, which is engineered to simplify your routine while delivering impressive results for a deep, dark tan.
Advanced blurring technology helps to minimize the appearance of skin imperfections, giving your skin a smoother look. The addition of caffeine can help to revitalize the skin’s appearance. This combination of features makes it a high-performance choice for those seeking a flawless, bronzed glow.
Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen with Instant Bronzer SPF 50
This product is a versatile spray gel that combines broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection with an instant bronzer. It is specially formulated to be PABA Free, Dye Free, Alcohol Free, and Gluten Free, making it a considerate choice for various skin types.
The water-resistant formula holds up for 80 minutes, making it suitable for swimming or sweating. The convenient pump allows for easy application and maximum control, while the rich gel formula absorbs easily into the skin without leaving a heavy or greasy feel, providing both moisture and a sun-kissed tint.
Australian Gold Cheeky Brown Accelerator Tanning Lotion
This accelerator is part of the popular Cheeky Brown line, designed to help you achieve a rich, natural tan. As an accelerator, it works to speed up your skin’s natural tanning response, helping you develop color more efficiently during your indoor tanning sessions.
The formula includes natural bronzers that provide an immediate tint, allowing you to see your glow develop right away. This combination of accelerated tanning and instant color makes it a practical and effective choice for building a deep, brown tan.
Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion with Bronzer
This Dark Tanning Accelerator Lotion is engineered for those who want to maximize their tanning results. The inclusion of a bronzer offers an instant, sun-kissed effect while the accelerator components work to promote a darker, longer-lasting tan over time.
The formula is created to be easily absorbed and blended, ensuring an even application and consistent color development. It is a reliable option for achieving a deep, golden glow, leveraging Australian Gold’s expertise in tanning technology.
Buying Guide: How to Pick Your Perfect Australian Indoor Tanning Lotion
Choosing the right indoor tanning lotion can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options on the shelf. I’ve found that focusing on a few key factors makes the process much simpler and helps me get that natural, sun-kissed glow I’m after every single time. The first thing I always consider is my skin type. If you have drier skin like mine, you’ll want to look for a formula packed with moisturizing ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid. These help to hydrate the skin, which not only feels great but also helps your tan develop more evenly and last longer. For those with oilier skin, a lighter, fast-absorbing lotion or even a tanning mousse might be a better fit to avoid that greasy feeling.
Next, think about the color guide. A lot of the best Australian indoor tanning lotion products have a temporary tint that washes off after your first shower. I personally love these because they let me see exactly where I’ve applied the product, helping me avoid streaks and missed spots. If you’re new to self-tanning, a color guide can be a real game-changer for building your confidence. Then there’s the development time. Some lotions offer a rapid tan that you can wash off after just a few hours, while others develop overnight. I tend to go for the gradual ones because they give me more control over the final color—I can build it up over a couple of days to get my perfect shade.
Don’t forget to check the ingredients list. I always look for formulas that include skin-nourishing components. Things like aloe vera, vitamin E, and natural oils are a big plus. They help to condition your skin while you tan, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. I also make a point of avoiding anything with a strong, artificial fragrance, as my skin can be a bit sensitive. Finally, think about the finish. Do you want a matte look, or do you prefer a dewy, radiant glow? Many lotions now include light-reflecting particles for an instant healthy-looking sheen, which I find perfect for giving my skin a bit of life before a night out.
FAQ
How long does the tan from an indoor tanning lotion typically last?
A tan from a good quality lotion usually lasts about 5 to 7 days. It really depends on your skin type and how well you prep and maintain your skin. Since it’s a tan on the top layers of your skin, it will naturally fade as your skin sheds. To make it last longer, I moisturize every day and avoid long, hot baths or showers that can dry out my skin and speed up the fading process.
Can I use an indoor tanning lotion on my face?
You can, but you need to be careful. The skin on your face is more sensitive and can be prone to breakouts. I always look for a product that is specifically formulated for the face or one that is labeled as non-comedogenic so it won’t clog my pores. I also do a patch test behind my ear first to see how my skin reacts before applying it to my entire face.
How do I avoid streaks and ensure an even application?
Preparation is everything! I always exfoliate in the shower the day before I plan to tan, paying extra attention to rough areas like my knees, elbows, and ankles. Then, on the day, I make sure my skin is completely clean and free of any other lotions or oils. I use a tanning mitt for my body to keep my hands clean and to help blend the product smoothly. I apply the lotion in circular motions, working in sections, and use a very light amount on those drier areas like ankles and wrists.
What’s the difference between a gradual tanner and a regular indoor tanning lotion?
A regular indoor tanning lotion is designed to give you a full tan in one application, with the color fully developing over a few hours. A gradual tanner, on the other hand, has a lower concentration of the active ingredient (DHA), so it builds up a subtle colour over several days of consecutive use. I find gradual tanners are fantastic for beginners or for maintaining a tan, as they are very forgiving and easy to control.
Are there any Australian indoor tanning lotions for very fair skin?
Absolutely! Many brands now offer lotions in light or fair formulations that are designed to create a believable, natural-looking glow without going too dark or orange. These formulas often have a green or violet base to help cancel out any unwanted undertones. When I was starting out, I always went for a light, gradual formula to build a subtle, sun-kissed look that suited my fair complexion perfectly.