As the seasons transition from summer to fall, many of us are eager to maintain our sun-kissed glow. Tingle tanning lotions have become a popular choice for individuals seeking to enhance their natural tan without the stress of frequent reapplications. By understanding what these lotions do and what to look for when purchasing one, you’ll be better equipped to achieve your desired level of bronzing.
One of the key benefits of tingle tanning lotions is their ability to provide a rapid and intense color boost. This is particularly appealing to those who have already established some level of tan and are looking to take it to the next level. When selecting a tingle lotion, consider factors such as the strength of the tingle, whether it contains bronzers, and its impact on your skin.
In addition to their cosmetic benefits, many tingle lotions also feature moisturizing properties, which can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. With so many options available, it’s essential to review our top picks for the best tingle tanning lotions and consider your individual needs before making a purchase.
What Is a Tingle Tanning Lotion and What Does It Do?
The phenomenon of tingles in tanning lotions is attributed to the distinctive sensation they evoke on the skin. At its core, these products are engineered to deliver rapid and intense tanning results. As part of their mechanism, they induce a temporary reddening and tingling effect on the skin. This occurs due to the active ingredients, which stimulate blood flow by opening up capillaries and bringing more oxygenated blood to the surface of the skin – essentially simulating a full-body blush.
This increased blood circulation allows for greater absorption of ultraviolet light (UV), leading to enhanced tanning as if you were basking in the sun itself.
What Should I Look for When Buying a Tingle Lotion?
When selecting a tingle tanning lotion, several key factors come into play. One important consideration is the varying levels of strength among lotions, with some formulas providing a deeper tan than others. Additionally, certain products contain bronzers that can enhance and extend your existing tan. Furthermore, different lotions have distinct effects on the skin itself.
In this article, we’ll delve deeper into these factors to help you make an informed decision when choosing a tingle tanning lotion.
How Strong Is the Tingle?
While it’s understandable to assume that all tingle tanning lotions are essentially the same, nothing could be further from the truth. The reality is that these products come in a wide range of intensities, from gentle, barely-there sensations to intense reactions that can leave your skin tingling in an instant. For some individuals, this might even be too much, especially if they’re not already accustomed to dark tans.
As you might expect, the strength of the tingle is directly correlated with the level of tan you’ll achieve at the end of your session. With that in mind, it’s often best to opt for the strongest tingle cream that you can comfortably tolerate. Over time, as you become more accustomed to the sensation, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, vibrant color that’s unmatched by any other method.
Does It Have Bronzers in It?
When it comes to self-tanning products, many people are surprised to learn that they contain not only ingredients that enhance natural tanning but also bronzers, which provide a temporary fake tan. Unlike other fake tanning products on the market, the bronzers in these lotions are specifically designed to work in harmony with your existing tan.
This means that as you become more naturally bronzed, the product will respond by producing an even deeper color, allowing you to achieve an intense, sun-kissed glow. However, this unique property also requires a bit more attention when applying the lotion. Bronzing lotions can be prone to streaking if not applied correctly, leaving behind a residue on areas such as your hands and joints.
To avoid these issues, it’s essential to massage the product thoroughly into your skin and follow up with a shower to ensure a smooth, even finish.
Is It Good for the Skin?
While the benefits of tanning are undeniable, it’s equally important to consider the potential drawbacks, particularly when it comes to our skin. Overexposure to UV rays can lead to dehydration and premature aging, making it crucial to prioritize moisturization alongside any sun-kissed endeavors. In this context, incorporating a rich moisturizing lotion into your daily routine can be a valuable addition, enhancing not just the health of your skin but also its overall appearance.
Top 10 Best Tanning Lotions 2024
Best Overall lotion Tanovations Ed Hardy Body Shots
Ed Hardy’s Body Shots is an intense lotion that packs a powerful punch. With its extreme tingle strength of 5/5, this product delivers a deep, natural-looking tan that’s sure to turn heads. But be warned: the strong sensation may leave you feeling red and tender for a few hours after application. This lotion isn’t suitable for beginners, as it’s designed for those who can handle the intense tingling sensation.
The key to Body Shots’ effectiveness lies in its unique blend of ingredients, including a quad tyrosine blend that boosts melanin production, Melanobronze and Melactiva melanin synthesizers that enhance natural tanning, and Matrixyl Synth 6, which firms and tones the skin. Additionally, the lotion contains Bodyfit formula to reduce cellulite and increase skin firmness, as well as built-in color fade and tattoo protectors to keep your body art looking fresh.
While some may find the intense tingle overwhelming, fans of Ed Hardy’s Body Shots swear by its ability to deliver results faster than any other lotion on the market. With its unique blend of ingredients and extreme tingle strength, this product is perfect for those who want a deep, natural-looking tan that lasts.
Best Starter Tingle Devoted Creations White 2 Black
For those who are new to self-tanning or seeking a gentle upgrade from their current lotion, White 2 Black by Devoted Creations offers an excellent starting point. This mild and bronzer-free formula provides a natural-looking tan without any harsh chemical residues. With its moderate tingling sensation, it’s perfect for gradually building up your base color to three shades darker. The inclusion of multiple accelerators and the tingle formula itself helps to achieve this desired outcome.
One of the standout features is its hydrating properties, courtesy of black tea and cranberry extract, which also help to moisturize the skin. The subtle fragrance, reminiscent of rain-kissed leaves, effectively masks any unpleasant after-tan odors. Moreover, the lotion’s value for money cannot be overstated, offering a competitive price point similar to many non-tingle starter lotions.
Overall, White 2 Black is an excellent choice for those looking to take their self-tanning game to the next level without breaking the bank.
Best for Bronzing Ed Hardy Obnoxious Extreme Bronzer Lotion
Ed Hardy’s Obnoxious Extreme Bronzing Lotion is a powerhouse of bronzers and nourishing ingredients. Even before you hit the sunbed, this lotion promises to give you a boost in color that will only intensify as your tan deepens. With a medium-strength tingle that’s strong but not overwhelming for experienced tanners, it’s clear why Ed Hardy lotions are known for their potency.
The real star of the show, however, is the high-quality bronzing formula that keeps you tanning for hours after application. Pairing this with the nourishing properties of mangosteen and hemp seed oil, along with antioxidants and vitamins C and E to combat aging, makes Obnoxious Extreme a fantastic option for those seeking the best instant tan.
While it may not be the strongest tingler on the market, its pros far outweigh its cons: one of the best bronzing lotions out there, good end results, and a dark color that’s sure to impress. Just be prepared to wash your hands after use – a small price to pay for the benefits this lotion provides.
Best Value Strong Tingle Millennium Tanning Insanely Black 60X
Millennium’s Insanely Black tanning lotion stands out with its incredibly powerful tingle, making it an exceptional choice for experienced tanners seeking a deep color. The luxury silicone emulsion blend ensures an even coverage, and the lightweight, smooth texture leaves no greasy or sticky residue. Furthermore, the natural blackberry citrus scent is both pleasant and gender-neutral.
One of the strongest single tingle lotions available, this cream delivers immediate results, visible after just one use. Its active ingredients, including tyrosine, DHA bronzers, and a potent benzyl nicotinate tingle formula, work together to boost skin cell micro-circulation for maximum blood flow. While it may be pricey, the value-for-money ratio is surprisingly good, making it an excellent option for those seeking a deeper color.
However, caution is advised for new tanners, as this cream is quite intense, especially for those with pale skin. As such, we recommend either mixing it with a milder cream or starting with something gentler and working towards this high-level product.
Best Long Term Lotion Designer Skin Bombshell 100XX
Bombshell’s unique selling point lies in its ability to deliver a powerful and effective tingling sensation without leaving skin feeling raw or over-tingled. While it may not be marketed as an ‘ultra-extreme sizzle’, our review suggests that this lotion is incredibly hot, yet gentle enough to nourish and tan the skin. The combination of white tea extract, soy, and CoQ-10 results in a deep and even tan, making it a top contender for seasoned tanners.
With its pleasant watermelon scent and creamy texture, Bombshell’s easy application process only adds to its appeal. Our editor’s rating reflects the lotion’s impressive performance, with a tingle strength of 4 out of 5. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, the benefits it provides make it well worth the investment.
With pros including powerful tingling without burning, light and easy application, and an amazing scent, it’s little wonder that Bombshell has managed to survive for so long and remains a fan favorite.
Best for Soft Skin Brown Sugar Spicy Black Chocolate Tingle Bronzer
This indulgent lotion is a treat for both your skin and your desire to achieve a sun-kissed glow. Its rich formula combines bronzers, antioxidants, and other nourishing ingredients in a high-quality silicone emulsion blend that glides effortlessly onto the skin. What sets this product apart is its dual benefit: not only will you get a gorgeous tan, but your skin will also be left feeling soft, supple, and healthy.
The chocolate extract adds an extra layer of moisture and hydration, making it an excellent choice for those looking to combat signs of aging and keep their skin youthful. The tanning experience is medium-heat, providing a gradual and comfortable tan without the risk of burning. While this may not be intense enough for experienced sun-seekers, it’s perfect for those who want a natural-looking glow without the worry of adverse reactions.
One note of caution: the high concentration of bronzers means you’ll need to take care when applying to avoid streaks. However, the benefits far outweigh the minor inconvenience. With its luxurious texture and light, flowery scent, this lotion is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a premium tanning experience that also prioritizes skin health. The pros far outweigh the cons, making it a great value for those willing to indulge.
Best for Fake Tan Poison Extreme Hot Tingle
This amazing tingle cream, despite its somewhat unappealing name, offers an unbeatable value proposition. By delivering a great color without requiring intense heat, Poison is an excellent mid-range option that combines moderate strength with generous bronzering. The lotion’s impressive formula features a potent blend of active ingredients, including triple the usual amount of tanning agents like tyrosine, unipertan, and carrot oil.
Additionally, the substantial quantity of self-adjusting bronzers enhances your tan as you use it, reinforcing your hard work on the tanning beds.
What’s more, this lotion boasts a silky smooth application thanks to its silicone infusion and a slimming formula that helps tone your skin as you tan. The light citrus scent is pleasantly subtle, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded tanning experience.
With its strong yet controlled tingle, slimming benefits, and effortless application, Poison is an exceptional option for both beginners and experienced tanners looking to enhance their existing color.
Best Premium Tanning Lotion Devoted Creations Ignite Noir
When it comes to achieving an incredible tan, Ignite NOIR truly delivers. Its potent formula, built around oxygenating technology that increases blood flow to the skin, yields remarkable results in no time. This lotion’s strength lies in its high concentration of DHA and natural/cosmetic bronzers, which work in tandem to enhance your complexion from the moment you step out of the shower.
The added benefits include tattoo color preservation through advanced fade technology and a blend of toning and cellulite-burning ingredients that leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and radiant. While the price may be steep, the end result is well worth it. In fact, although this lotion matches the performance of our top choices, its premium quality justifies the cost. If you’re willing to invest in your tanning routine, Ignite NOIR is an excellent choice.
Best Mild Tingle Supre Cherry Bomb Red Hot Dark Accelerator
The Supre Cherry Bomb lotion is a great choice for beginners, offering a mild tingling sensation that’s just right for getting started. With an Editor’s Rating of 1/5 for tingle strength, this accelerator is designed to help new tanners get glowing without overwhelming them. The lightweight formula spreads easily and absorbs quickly, leaving no streaks or residue behind. The cherry scent is also a major plus, helping to eliminate any unpleasant after-tanning odors.
In terms of actual results, the Supre Cherry Bomb delivers on its promise of maximizing ingredients. Vitamins A, C, and E, skin-firming cherry extract, and Supre’s own colorburst complex all work together to promote long-term, healthy-looking skin. While it may not be powerful enough for seasoned tanners looking to deepen their tan, this lotion is perfect for those just starting out. One of the biggest advantages of this product is its great value – you get a lot of bang for your buck.
Additionally, the gentle tingling sensation makes it an excellent choice for new tanners who want to ease into self-tanning products. Just keep in mind that this lotion may not produce the darkest color possible, and those already dark-skinned may find it too mild for their needs.
Best Standard Lotion Pro Tan Hot Tottie
Pro Tan’s budget cream is a hidden gem that packs a punch, delivering a moderate tingle that rivals its pricier counterparts. This reliable brand has been a trusted name in the industry for over three decades, and their products continue to impress athletes and fitness professionals alike.
This hot action bronzer boasts an impressive list of active ingredients, including tyrosine for pigment production, vitamins A, C, and E for long-term skin health, as well as aloe vera and cocoa butter for moisturizing and nourishing benefits. While it may not be the most intense lotion on our list, the tingle is still noticeable and you can expect to see results. We recommend this product to intermediate tanners looking to take their tan game to the next level.
The medium tingle is powerful without being painful, making it a great option for those who want to experience the benefits of self-tanning without the discomfort. As with any product, there are some drawbacks – the scent can be slightly artificial and the tingle may not be as intense as some users might prefer. However, overall, this cream is a great value for its price.
A Full Guide to Tingle Tanning Lotions
Whether a newcomer to tanning lotions or an experienced sun-kisser, this comprehensive guide serves as a go-to resource for mastering the art of using these products. From beginner to expert, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of applying tanning lotions, providing valuable insights on how to achieve that enviable, golden glow reminiscent of a tropical getaway.
Why Should I Use a Tingle Tanning Lotion?
While many people may wonder why someone would opt for a tingle cream that can leave their skin looking red and feeling unusual at first, the answer lies in its potent ability to deliver a rapid tan. Tingle creams are, in fact, the strongest type of lotion available, making them ideal for those seeking a deep, dark, and long-lasting tan. If you’re struggling to achieve your desired level of tan or have hit a plateau, tingle lotions can be a game-changer.
Unlike traditional tanning creams that work by increasing natural melanin production and priming the skin, tingle creams contain active ingredients that directly boost the amount of UV absorption, allowing for a faster and more intense tan. This unique mechanism is what sets them apart from their non-tingle counterparts. When applied, these lotions stimulate blood flow in the skin, causing the skin to absorb more UV and resulting in that characteristic red and tingling sensation.
Is It an Accelerator or a Maximizer?
When selecting tanning lotions, you’ll inevitably come across the terms ‘accelerator’ and ‘maximizer’. While they may seem interchangeable, each serves a distinct purpose in your quest for a radiant glow. Accelerators are designed with beginners in mind, aimed at building a foundation tan that can be achieved much faster by those who are fair-skinned or new to sunbeds.
In contrast, maximizers are formulated to enhance an existing base tan, perfect for individuals seeking to take their natural color to the next level and achieve a deeper, darker, and more luscious hue.
What Happens When You Use a Tingle Tanning Cream?
When you first use a tingle cream, several reactions are typical. Initially, your skin will likely turn pink or red within minutes of applying it. This is an expected part of the tanning process, and as your body adapts to the cream, the intensity of the reaction will decrease. In fact, you may even experience a better response from the cream once you’re accustomed to its effects. As your skin takes on a reddish hue, you’ll likely feel a tingling sensation.
Stronger creams or sensitive skin can cause a more intense tingle that might be described as stinging or burning. This sensation should subside quickly after leaving the sunbed, and the redness usually lasts for several hours afterwards. If you’d like to reduce the redness, a lukewarm shower will help remove any remaining cream and soothe your skin. Be cautious when taking a shower, as extremely hot or cold water can exacerbate the tingling sensation.
It’s also common to notice uneven patches of redness or blotches on your skin. This is purely natural and won’t affect the overall evenness of your tan. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the cream’s residue on your body, particularly on your hands and face. This can transfer to others through touch, making it crucial to be cautious around vulnerable individuals like small children, pets, or those with sensitive skin.
Wait until you’ve showered and removed any remaining cream before interacting with these groups.
Will I Like the Tingle Sensation?
While some individuals may initially be drawn to tingling lotions due to their vibrant colors, others have grown accustomed to the sensation itself. The tingling feeling can actually enhance the overall tanning experience, making it a crucial component for many users. For those new to these products, the initial intensity of the tingle can be overwhelming. However, as the body becomes desensitized, the sensation loses its strangeness and becomes an integral part of the self-tanning process.
Once you’ve experienced the unique color and sensations that tingling lotions provide, it’s not uncommon for users to become loyal advocates, opting for these products over others in their quest for a perfect tan.
How Does a Tingle Cream Work?
The characteristic tingling sensation in topical creams is often attributed to three key ingredients: Methyl Nicotinate, Benzyl Nicotinate, and Hexyl Nicotinate. While distinct, these compounds share a common mechanism of action. Methyl Nicotinate stimulates blood flow to the skin’s upper layers, allowing for increased oxygen delivery to melanocytes – the cells responsible for natural tanning. This boost in activity leads to faster, more even tanning.
As the mildest of the trio, Methyl Nicotinate typically induces a gentle tingling sensation upon application. In contrast, Benzyl and Hexyl Nicotinates are more potent, causing capillaries to dilate further, resulting in enhanced redness, deeper burning, and ultimately, a darker tan.
What Does a Tingle Cream Feel Like?
The subjective nature of tingling sensations makes it challenging to provide a definitive answer. The same cream can evoke vastly different reactions depending on individual skin types and sensitivities. For instance, someone with sensitive skin might experience a strong reaction from a mild tingle cream, while an experienced tanner could apply the strongest formula without any adverse effects, aside from a pleasant glow.
One thing is certain, though: tingling creams are characterized by their, well, tingling quality, often described as hot or itchy. When trying a new tingle cream, whether it’s your first time using one of these products or you’re simply introducing a new formula to your routine, it’s essential to follow a specific testing method to ensure a safe and effective experience.
Are You Using a Tingle Cream for the First Time?
When trying a tingling sunbed lotion for the first time, you may experience an unusual sensation that can range from a gentle itch to a burning feeling. To ensure your skin reacts well to the new product, it’s essential to patch test it before applying it all over. Start by taking a small amount of the lotion and applying it to a discreet area like the inside of your wrist or arm. The skin on this part of the body is thinner than the rest, making it more sensitive to reactions.
If you don’t experience any adverse effects in this area, it’s unlikely that you’ll have issues with the rest of your body. However, if you have sensitive skin or a low pain threshold, patch testing becomes even more crucial. Additionally, be aware that some individuals may be allergic to the ingredients used in tingle creams, although this is relatively rare. While most areas are suitable for using tingling sunbed lotions, there are certain places where you should exercise caution.
Specifically, avoid applying these products near sensitive areas such as around the eyes, nipples, and genitals, as the skin is thinnest here and the lotion could potentially penetrate deeper into the skin.
Is There Any Reason Why I Shouldn’t Use a Tingle Cream?
When it comes to tingling lotions, it’s essential to consider individual skin types and potential allergies. Some of these products can pack quite a punch, making them potentially too intense for those with sensitive skin. As such, we strongly advise conducting a spot test before applying a new lotion all over your body. This simple precaution ensures you’re not inadvertently introducing an irritant into your routine.
Why Does My Cream Have a Bronzer?
The debate around bronzers in tanning products has sparked strong opinions. While some swear by their ability to enhance their natural glow, others are adamant they shouldn’t be used. When employed correctly, bronzers can revolutionize one’s tanning experience. By incorporating a bronzing agent into a skin cream or lotion, the product works similarly to other self-tanning formulas.
This means that as you apply the lotion across your body, the fake tan will seamlessly blend with your own skin tone, providing a sun-kissed glow. Bronzers are not intended to produce the same level of darkness as regular fake tans. Instead, they’re designed to complement an existing tan, making them ideal for those seeking to build upon their already-darkened complexion or achieve an instant radiant glow.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your natural beauty or simply add a touch of warmth to your skin, bronzers can be a fantastic addition to your tanning routine.
I’ve Recently Got a Tattoo. Do I Need to Use a Lotion With a Tattoo Protector?
The risks of UV exposure on new tattoos cannot be overstated. Whether it’s natural sunlight or the artificial glow of a sunbed, prolonged exposure can cause fading and damage to your fresh body art. For those who’ve invested time, money, and physical effort into their tattoos, the thought of them becoming patchy and worn is unsettling. Fortunately, many creams designed for tattoo aftercare now incorporate UV-blocking ingredients that prevent damage from sunbeds.
However, it’s still crucial to employ additional measures for maximum protection. In our experience, applying a secondary layer of coverage – such as plasters for smaller tattoos or bandages for larger ones – can provide an added safeguard against the sun’s harmful rays. As a general rule, keep your tattoo covered for at least two weeks post-procedure before transitioning to a protecting cream, which should be used for another fortnight after that.
Why Does My Tingle Lotion Have So Many Moisturizers?
When it comes to tingle creams, their potent moisturizing properties are undeniable. These rich emollients not only enhance your natural glow by promoting a deeper, longer-lasting tan but also work tirelessly to maintain skin hydration levels. As the sun’s UV rays would otherwise strip your complexion of its natural moisture, a superior tingle cream steps in as a luxurious barrier cream, ensuring an even, radiant finish and leaving you feeling pampered and indulged.
Can I Use My Tingle Tanning Cream Outside in the Sun?
It’s essential to exercise caution when using tingle tanning creams, as their ingredients may enhance your natural tan when exposed to sunlight. However, we strongly advise against applying them outdoors. The primary reason is that these products aren’t designed for external use and lack built-in sun protection. As a result, they won’t provide any safeguard against sunburn or other skin concerns.
Instead, it’s recommended to reserve tingle tanning creams for indoor tanning sessions in sunbeds or tanning booths, where their benefits can be fully realized without compromising your skin’s health.
How Can I Get the Best Tan Possible?
To achieve the most radiant and vibrant tan, it’s crucial to establish a consistent pre-sunbed routine that sets your skin up for success. First, ensure a smooth canvas by thoroughly exfoliating your skin before each session. This is crucial because dead skin cells can impede the UV rays from penetrating deeply into your skin, ultimately hindering your ability to achieve an optimal tan. For maximum results, make it a habit to exfoliate right before every sunbed session.
Next, prioritize hydration by drinking plenty of water and keeping your skin moisturized and supple. This will not only enhance your overall complexion but also help your skin absorb the UV rays more effectively, allowing for a deeper and richer tan. It’s also essential to remove any products or substances that might interfere with the sunbed’s effectiveness. This includes makeup, lotions, and other cosmetics, as many of these items contain SPF, which can actively block your tan.
Take the time to thoroughly wash off any impurities before stepping into the sunbed. To preserve your hard-earned tan, refrain from exfoliating or waxing afterwards. These procedures can remove layers of skin, causing you to lose some of that beautiful color. Instead, focus on nurturing and maintaining your newly acquired glow. Finally, invest in a high-quality sunbed lotion specifically designed for indoor tanning.
A good product will help protect your skin while also promoting an even, all-over tan that looks and feels amazing.
Why Do Some Tingle Tanning Lotions Contain Silicone, and What Is It For?
When examining the ingredients list of a tingle tanning cream in recent months, you may have noticed the presence of silicone and wondered about its purpose. Despite common misconceptions surrounding tanning and skincare, silicone is actually a valuable addition to high-quality products.
Silicone functions as a barrier on the skin, locking in other ingredients to maximize their effectiveness.
Additionally, it provides protection while allowing for oxygen transmission, enabling the skin to breathe freely.
Some may have heard negative claims about silicone’s safety, but rest assured that these rumors are unfounded. The truth is that silicone is completely safe for use in skincare products like tanning lotions, and its presence often indicates a high-quality product.
The primary reason you may have encountered negative views on silicone is due to other skincare providers promoting their own products as alternatives. Since silicone is an expensive ingredient, only premium products typically contain it.
In rare cases where individuals experience acne or extremely sensitive skin, caution should be exercised when using silicone-based products.
For the majority of users, however, silicone poses no harm and can actually enhance the overall tan achieved from a lotion.
Final Thoughts
For some individuals, a tingling tanning lotion may not be the best fit. While it can provide rapid results for those who enjoy the sensation and the resulting dark tan, others may find the feeling unpleasant or experience redness due to its potency. However, for serious tanners seeking a quick and intense tan, medium-strength tingles can be an effective solution.
By using this type of lotion consistently over several sessions, you’ll be able to gauge the results and potentially become hooked on the process. If you’re not convinced that tingling lotions are for you, consider exploring other indoor tanning options, such as those listed in [insert link], which cater to a range of preferences.
