Applied in the run up to your summer holiday, a tan accelerator lotion can increase your skin’s natural production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. A higher concentration of melanin will increase your skin’s natural tanning ability, giving you a deeper tan, quicker.
It’s worth remembering however, any tan accelerator won’t offer any protection from UV rays. Formulated to increase your skin’s natural tanning process, a tan accelerator doesn’t offer any protection against burning UVB, or ageing UVA rays. Remember to follow all sun safety advice and wear a full-spectrum SPF50 if out in the sun.
Look for tan accelerator lotions with added skincare benefits, such as hydrating aloe vera or skin nourishing plant butters. Apply twice daily as you would a normal body lotion for two to three weeks before you jet-off to prep skin for the sun. Unlike fake tan there is no risk of streaking, funny smells or messing up your bedsheets, as the lotion works on your skin’s own tanning ability, with no colour added.
Using a tan accelerator as an after-sun lotion whilst away can also prolong the length of your tan, too. So if you’re looking to minimise your sun exposure but maximise your tan, here are nine tan accelerators to try before your summer break.
9 Of The Best Tan Accelerators
Boost your skin’s production of melanin before you jet off to warmer climes to maximise your tan and even help it to last longer.
FAQs: Tan Accelerators: Your Questions, Answered
What exactly is a tan accelerator?
A tan accelerator is a skincare product designed to support your skin’s natural tanning process, helping you develop a deeper, more even glow when exposed to the sun. Think of it as enhancing what your skin already does, rather than creating colour artificially.
Do tan accelerators really make a difference?
They can, particularly when used consistently and alongside sensible sun exposure. While they won’t transform your skin overnight, they can help optimise your tan and improve its overall quality, especially in terms of tone and longevity.
Do I still need SPF if I’m using one?
Without question. Tan accelerators do not offer sun protection, so a broad-spectrum SPF is essential. The goal is a healthy, gradual tan, not sun damage.
How quickly will I see results?
Expect a subtle glow within a few days, with a more noticeable tan building over the course of a week. Results depend on your skin type, how easily you tan, and how much time you spend in the sun.
What ingredients should I look for?
It’s as much about skincare as it is about tanning. The best formulas tend to combine:
- Melanin-supporting ingredients (such as tyrosine)
- Hydrating elements like aloe vera or natural oils
- Antioxidants to help support overall skin health
Are they suitable for sensitive skin?
Many are, but it’s worth choosing carefully. Look for gentle, well-formulated products and always patch test first, particularly if your skin is prone to irritation.
What’s the difference between a tan accelerator and a self-tanner?
A tan accelerator works with the sun, enhancing your natural tan. A self-tanner, on the other hand, creates colour instantly using ingredients like DHA, no sun required. They serve entirely different purposes.
Will a tan accelerator help my tan last longer?
Because the colour comes from your skin’s natural melanin, it tends to fade more evenly and gradually than a faux glow, especially if you keep skin well hydrated.
Are more expensive formulas worth it?
Not always. While premium options often include added skincare benefits, there are plenty of well-formulated mid-range products that deliver excellent results. It’s more about ingredients than price point.
Are there any downsides?
The key consideration is sun exposure itself. While the products are generally safe, UV exposure carries well-known risks, so moderation and protection are essential.
Who should approach with caution?
If your skin burns easily, or if you have a history of sensitivity to the sun, it’s best to proceed carefully or seek professional advice before using any tanning products.
How should I use a tan accelerator for best results?
Apply to clean skin before heading into the sun, layer with SPF, and build your exposure gradually. Hydration, both during and after sun exposure, will also make a noticeable difference to your final result.
What defines a “good” tan accelerator?
The best options strike a balance between effective tanning support and proper skincare enhancing your glow while keeping skin soft, nourished, and well looked after.
By
Lydia Mansi
·
Updated April 2026
Lydia is an all-round lifestyle guru, tireless champion of women in business and our resident expert on beauty.
