15 Best Tan Extenders (Reviews) To Try In 2024
Prolong your tan's life span without making your skin dry, with these tan extenders.
Terri Watts is a highly qualified skin care specialist with over 24 years of experience in the beauty industry. In 2005, driven by a commitment to empower others, Terri launched her own clean beauty skin care line. This line is more than ju... more
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of ... more
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
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You have worked so hard to get the sun-kissed body and beautiful skin with a tanning lotion or spray tans, but the real struggle is to make the gorgeous color last. Here is a solution! Use the best sunless tan extenders with beneficial ingredients to maintain the sizzling bronze shade of your skin for a prolonged period. They enhance your tan’s life span, offer you the ideal summer glow, keep your skin hydrated, and protect it from harmful UV rays and other external irritants. But, there are plenty of brands selling these self-tan extenders. So, how do you choose the best among them?
This can get a bit tricky, but we can help you out. Scroll through this article to find a list of 15 tan extenders with amazing ingredients that can make your life easier.
In This Article
What Is A Tan Extender Lotion?
Pale or fair unprotected skin is prone to sun damage that sunblock or sunscreen cannot prevent. The longer the time you spend in the sun, the more likely you are to get sunburned. But as we all know, tanning can wear off quickly. To supplement or extend the lifespan of those tans, tan extenders, and self-tanning products are used. These lotions with moisturizing formulas offer you beautiful skin and help your skin to hold the color longer.
What are the benefits of tan extenders other than enhancing the life of your tan? Scroll down to know in detail.
Benefits Of Using Tan Extenders
- Protects your skin from external factors – direct sun exposure and UV rays, thereby locking your tan and prevent fading.
- Moisturizes and conditions the skin.
- Replenishes your skin with the essential nutrients lost while tanning.
Take your pick from our list of the 15 best tan extenders to try in 2024.
15 Best Tan Extender Lotions And Moisturizers
1. Best Overall: Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender
This moisturizer from Australian Gold with natural ingredients can extend the life of your tan. The rich exotic blend of sunflower seed and olive fruit oils hydrates your skin. This long-lasting tan extender contains aloe vera, which conditions the skin leaving it soft and smooth. This time-tested formula It is also enriched with tea tree oil that cleanses the skin, and vitamin E, an anti-aging and anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps replenish skin’s natural oils and acts against free radicals.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Tea tree oil, Sunflower seed oil, Olive fruit oil, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
- Absorbed quickly
- Dye-free
- Alcohol-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 15,033 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
2. Best Hydrating: Maui Babe After Browning Tanning Lotion
The Maui Babe After Browning Tanning Lotion aids in tan maintenance and protects it from fading easily. It is infused with skin-nourishing, natural ingredients like macadamia nut oil that moisturizes the skin and aloe vera that conditions the skin. This cruelty-free tan extender also prevents peeling and flaking. It helps treat skin damage caused by the sun, wind, and salt. This tried, tested, and trusted product is highly recommended for dry skin conditions. It is proven to deliver visible results.
Key Ingredients: Purified Hawaiian water, Aloe vera gel, and Macadamia nut oil
Pros
- Hydrates the skin
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Absorbed quickly
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
"This lotion is my go-to for post-sun relief. It eases dryness effectively and maintains a healthy tan. The blend of ingredients is very hydrating and the scent gives off a pleasant tropical feel. It absorbs well, without feeling heavy."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 2,103 great reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Soothing Formula: Maui Island Secret After Sun Tan Sealer
Seal in your dark tan with this Maui Island Secret After Sun Tan Sealer. This hydrating lotion is infused with aloe vera that helps condition the skin and leaves it soft and smooth. Rosehip oil nourishes the skin, and Hawaiian ingredients help soothe and heal the skin from external damage like the sun, wind, and high altitudes.
Key Ingredients: Pure Aloe vera, Rosehip oil, and Hawaiian ginger, Passion flower oil, Green tea, and Maui coffee extracts
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Value for money
- Tropical fragrance
Cons
- None
"This aftersun lotion has earned its place in my post-beach routine. It's deeply moisturizing without being greasy. I've noticed my skin stays supple and my tan stays longer with regular use. This is definitely worth a try."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 1,846 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
| Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender Best Overall | Maui Babe After Browning Tanning Lotion Best Hydrating | Maui Island Secret After Sun Tan Sealer Best Soothing Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.88 x 3.5 x 9 inches | 2 x 2 x 6 inches | - |
| Weight | 1 Pounds | 8 Ounces | - |
| Skin Type | - | Dry | - |
| Number of Items | - | - | 1 |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 15,033 | 2,103 | 1,846 |
| Price | $7.49 | $14.05 | $48.2 |
4. Best Anti-Aging Formula: Australian Gold Vanilla Pineapple Hemp Nation Moisturizing Tan Extender
Not only does this sunless tanner extend the life of your tan, but the vanilla and pineapple extracts make it an excellent moisturizer for sensitive skin. This tan extender is infused with enzymes and antioxidants that reduce signs of aging, hydrate the skin, and promote skin elasticity. It also contains pure hemp seed oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, and glycerin, which lock your skin’s natural moisture. The supercharged vitamins E and B5 help diminish fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains niacinamide, which prevents the loss of moisture from the skin.
Key Ingredients: Vanilla pineapple tropical fruit blend, Pure hemp seed oil, Hydrarich blend, and Age-defying blend
Pros
- THC-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Long-lasting
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
"This one stands out for its effectiveness with regular tanners. The fragrance settles pleasantly upon application and lends a subtle glow without a sticky residue. It's also a great daily moisturizer for a tan extension that leaves the skin superbly soft."
5. Best Quick-Absorbing Formula: Ed Hardy INK Tattoo & Color Fade Moisturizer Tan Extender
The Ink By Ed Hardy Tattoo & Color Fade Moisturizer, with their signature formula helps protect the life and luster of your tattoos. The unique formula extends the life of your tan and blends into your skin easily, making it look natural. This tan refresher is formulated with organic shea butter, which softens your skin without being greasy. The potent anti-aging lotus extracts with high levels of antioxidants nourish your skin. The honey and bourbon fragrance makes this skin-nourishing lotion perfect for the girl who likes to live life on the edge.
Key Ingredients: Shea Butter, Lotus Extract, and Vitamins E and C
Pros
- THC-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Long-lasting
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Strong fragrance
"This lotion gives me lasting moisture but doesn't feel greasy. It has a lingering scent that's not too overwhelming. It is good for daily use and seems to enhance tattoo vibrancy too. After using it for a month, I have noticed it smooths our wrinkles too, giving the skin a more firm and youthful look."
6.Best Organic:GOLDEN STAR BEAUTY Tan Extender
This non-comedogenic tan extender from Golden Star Beauty is made with organic ingredients that help extend the life of your tan for up to 3 days. This all-natural tan extender is infused with aloe vera, argan oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and hyaluronic acid that moisturize your dry skin. It reduces tan breakup and prevents fading, making your skin silky soft.
Key Ingredients: Organic Aloe vera, Olive oil, Avocado oil, Argan Oil, and Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-sticky
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Formaldehyde-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
"I've been trying out this tanning extender and it's been quite effective in maintaining my tan at home. The fragrance is generally pleasant and not too strong like after-tan beds. It's also a good moisturizer."
7.Best For Hydration:Devoted Creations PLATINUM INDULGENCE Tan Extending Moisturizer
This tan extending moisturizer is infused with cocoa and shea butter that condition and nourish the skin. It locks moisture, and the silk extracts offer superior hydration to the skin. The Wrinkle-Fighting ALA Technology rejuvenates your skin and makes it silky, soft. The exotic oils fight against signs of aging.
Key Ingredients: Silk extracts, Cocoa butter, Shea butter, and Exotic oils
Pros
- Anti-aging formula
- Long-lasting
- Absorbed quickly
- Non-greasy
- Value for money
Cons
- None
"I've been reaching for this lotion regularly, and I love its moisturizing capabilities without the stickiness. It's particularly refreshing after sun exposure with its subtle, pleasant scent."
8.Best Skin-Firming:Designer Skin Angel Daily Moisturizer
The Designer Skin Angel Daily Moisturizer protects, nourishes, extends the life of your tan. It is infused with skin nourishing and firming ingredients that improve your skin texture and dull skin. Hemp seed and avocado oils prevent dryness and moisturize the skin. This skin-firming sunless tanning lotion contains copper PCA that offers a clear and refreshing look, and white birch extracts improve skin elasticity. The Alpha-Lipoic Acid And Phytoage Complex help reduce oxidative damage.
Key Ingredients: Hemp seed oil, Avocado oil, White birch extract, and Copper PCA
Pros
- Pleasant fragrance
- Suitable for daily use
- Blends easily
- Non-greasy
Cons
- None
9.Best For Youthful-Looking Skin:Norvell Prolong Sunless Color Extending Lotion
The Norvell Prolong Sunless Color Extending Lotion can help extend the life of your tan gradually with multiple applications.This sulfate-free tan extender is infused with DHA that prolongs the color, and tomato seed extract help prevent signs of aging. Aloe vera moisturizes and conditions the skin. This tan prolonger is also enriched with vitamin C that helps boost collagen production, fight skin sagging and tighten the skin. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, fights against free radicals and offers smooth and youthful-looking skin. The natural bronze color of this lotion helps cover imperfections, while working on dull skin and restoring your dry skin.
Note: Wait for at least 8 hours before wetting your skin.
Key ingredients: Tomato seed extract, Aloe vera, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulphate-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Professional-grade
Cons
- Strong fragrance
"The self-tanning lotion offers a subtle, gradual tan ideal for fair skin, avoiding the common orange or brown hue. It's a good match for a light, natural-looking color boost. It's user-friendly and has a light fragrance. Remember to wash your hands post-application to prevent darker palms!"
Pro Tip10.Best Sun-Kissed Glow:Millennium Tanning Products Solid Black Tan Extender
This ultra-hydrating lotion from Millennium Tanning Products help extend your color longer than before. It is formulated with skin-softening, natural and antioxidant-rich ingredients. This sun-kissed glow extender contains argan oil, which helps promote smoother and brighter skin. Cocoa butter hydrates the skin and improves its elasticity, and shea butter helps soften the skin. According to reviews, this hydrating after sun care tan extender penetrates the dry layers of skin and makes it supple.
Terri L Watts, a skin care specialist, says, “The addition of Argan oil in Millennium Tanning makes it a top choice for me. Multitasking Argan oil is a superior antioxidant moisturizer that soothes, strengthens and penetrates deeply into the skin, providing hydration and moisturizing nourishment. A little goes a long way and is well worth it.”
Key Ingredients: Argan oil, Cocoa butter, and Shea butter
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Suitable for daily use
- Pleasant fragrance
- Value for money
Cons
- None
"This lotion offers smooth application and moisturizing effects. The scent is quite lovely and has a luxurious feel. I like the design of the bottle's twist-to-close top which is very convenient for on-the-go use without any mess."
11.Best For Daily Use:Jergens Natural Glow Tan Extender
This paraben-free tan extender with Anti-Fading Technology can hold color for up to seven days. It is scientifically formulated with vitamin E, antioxidants, and an anti-aging ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties. This results-driven product helps replenish your skin’s natural oils, reduce skin inflammation and protect from free radicals. It helps nourish and moisturize the skin and can be used daily.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Overwhelming fragrance
"This lotion is a favorite for its ability to extend the life of tans. It also offers a hint of extra glow without the blotchiness. It's a part of my daily routine specifically to maintain neck tans and its smoothing effects on uneven areas."
12. Skinerals Amber Glow Tan Extender Lotion
This lightly-scented lotion from Skinerals extends the life of your fake tan. The vegan tan extender is infused with a blend of ingredients that are natural and organic like aloe vera, which conditions and smoothens the skin. Cocoa butter hydrates the skin and improves its elasticity, and shea butter help soften your skin. The tanning lotion extender dries quickly without leaving any streaks and unevenness.
Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, Aloe vera, Cocoa butter, and Shea butter
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
"I've been incorporating the Skinerals Self Tanner Extender Lotion into my routine and it helps in maintaining my tan. It helps prolong an existing tan for a good while. The natural formulation and pleasant fragrance are bonuses. It is also easy to apply and blends well without leaving tell-tale marks on ankles and wrists."
13.Best For Brighter Skin Tone:Brown Sugar White Chocolate Moisturizer
This glow-boosting tan extender from Brown Sugar is specially designed for dark tans. It is infused with Morrocan argan oil that promotes a brighter skin tone. The double dark chocolate extract, rich in antioxidants and nutrients, helps nourish the skin. This gradual tan extender is also enriched with vitamin E, omega fats, and coconut butter that provide hydration to the skin. According to the reviewers, the brown sugar moisturizer is a great buy!
Key Ingredients: Double dark chocolate extract, Argan oil, and Coconut butter
Pros
- DHA-free
- Long-lasting
- Absorbed easily
- Tropical fragrance
- Value for money
Cons
- None
"I've been using this product each season and it's quite nourishing for my dry skin. Just a small amount is enough, and it also has a pleasant scent that lingers around."
14.Best Color-Enhancing:LA TAN Luxury Tan Extending Moisturizer
Get a flawless and long-lasting tan with the La Tan Luxury Tan Extending Moisturizer. It is infused with caffeine that reduces skin inflammation and helps smoothen the skin. This color-enhancing tan extender is also enriched with co-enzyme A (a clinically backed skincare ingredient), which retains moisture levels and protects your skin from environmental stressors. The calendula extract acts as a skin conditioner, which stimulates collagen synthesis and reduces skin dryness.
Key Ingredients: Caffeine, Co-enzyme A, and Calendula extract
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Pleasant fragrance
- Conditions the skin
- Value for money
Cons
- None
"This tanner is a reliable option for maintaining a sun-kissed glow during the cooler months. It delivers a nice color after just one application. It's now my go-to for summer radiance."
15.Best For Luminous Glow:Designer Skin BITTERSWEET WONDROUS DAILY TAN EXTENDER
Get an instant illuminating look with this Bittersweet Wondrous Daily Tan Extender from Designer Skin. It is enriched with a dream beam elixir that imparts a luminous glow to your skin. The glistening skin blend helps brighten your skin and leaves it soft and smooth. This natural-looking tan extender nourishes your skin and helps combat ATO (After Tan Odor). As per the reviews, it shows visible results and is a great buy.
Key Ingredients: Dream beam elixir and Glistening skin blend
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Pleasant fragrance
- Conditions the skin
- Value for money
Cons
- None
"This tanning extender gives a long-lasting, smooth application with a pleasant tropical scent and a golden shimmer. It does not feel greasy at all. I'm fond of both the product's effectiveness and the generous size."
Picking the right tan extender can be a daunting task. Keep in mind the points mentioned below while buying a tan extender.
How To Choose The Best Tan Extender
- Your Skin Complexion – Each woman has a unique skin complexion. In other words, different skin textures and colors require tan extenders that are made especially for them. Finding the right tan enhancer for your skin will help the product work better for you.
- Ingredients – Look for products with moisturizing ingredients. A healthy and moisturized skin can hold the tan for a long time. Some tan extenders also contain bronzers, which can add extra color. If you are looking for bronze extenders, go for the ones with DHA (Dihydroxyacetone).
- Brand – With so many tan extenders in the market, it is essential to filter them by having adequate brand knowledge. Picking a well-known brand can make all the difference.
- Formulation – Understanding the composition and ingredients in your tan extender is crucial. Purchasing an all-natural product is always a safer bet. For people with sensitive skin types, look for fragrance-free or dermatologist-recommended tan extenders and do a patch test before using the tan extender to prevent any allergic reaction.
- Mode Of Application – A spray tan extender is easier to apply and spreads evenly on the skin, while thick lotions can impart a cakey look.
Infographic: Dos And Don’ts Of UV Tanning
Everyone wants to achieve a beach-appropriate sun-kissed glow. UV tanning has become popular to enhance the skin’s appearance without the sun damage. However, you need consider certain things while getting a UV tanning bed to prevent irritation or burning of your skin. Check the infographic below to learn what to do and avoid before, during, and after UV tanning sessions. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Tan extenders not only prolong the life of your tan but also protect your skin from harsh environmental factors. The Australian Gold Moisture Lock Tan Extender prolongs your tan while providing hydration to your skin, the Maui Babe After Browning Tanning Lotion treats skin damage issues while nourishing deeply. Opt for the Designer Skin Angel Daily Moisturizer, if you are looking to improve skin elasticity and firmness. You can also use products with cosmetic bronzers that add color to your skin and cover uneven fading. Choose a tan extender suitable for your skin type and flaunt your sun-kissed glow like never before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does tan extender lotion really work?
Yes. Tan extenders prolong the life of your tan, moisturize your skin, and protect it from harmful UV radiation. Several soothing formulas also help nourish your skin.
Is tan extender fake tan?
No. Tan extenders are not fake tans. However, some products can add color to your skin and help cover uneven fading.
Can you shave after a fake tan?
Yes, but it is advisable that you wait for a day or two before shaving. Shaving immediately after a tan can make the color fade sooner than it usually would.
How long does it take for a tanning bed tan to show?
Tanning beds are one of the fastest ways to tan. Typically, it takes a few weeks of regular tanning sessions for the color to show. You have to wait for 2 to 3 weeks to see the tan develop.
What do you put on your skin after tanning?
Moisturizing your skin right after your tan session is a good idea. Look for products that contain aloe vera to hydrate your skin and make your tan look better.
Is it possible for tanning to be permanent?
Yes, tanning can permanently change the color of your skin. However, it is a sign of skin damage that needs to be checked by a dermatologist.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Krati Darak is a skin care enthusiast who understands the skin’s requirements. Her suggestions are mostly based on a thorough examination of the products and an analysis of customer comments. She’s compiled a list of the best tan extenders for this post to help you keep your skin’s deep bronze glow longer. Her recommended products come in non-greasy, lightweight, and quick-absorbing formulas that are water-resistant and offer long-lasting results.
