I Tested the Top Tanning Products for Outside: Here Are My Tried and True Favorites!

As someone who loves to spend time outdoors, I know the struggle of finding the perfect tanning products for those sunny days. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which ones will give you that perfect bronzed glow while also protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. That’s why I’ve done the research and testing for you to bring you a comprehensive guide on the best tanning products for outside. From lotions to oils, I’ll cover everything you need to know to achieve a flawless tan while enjoying the great outdoors. So grab your sunglasses and let’s dive in!

I Tested The Best Tanning Products For Outside Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Carroten Gold Shimmer Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml / 5 oz

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Carroten Gold Shimmer Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml / 5 oz

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Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml / 5 oz

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Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml / 5 oz

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Maui Babe Browning Lotion - Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants - Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types - Made in USA - 4 fl oz

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Maui Babe Browning Lotion – Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants – Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types – Made in USA – 4 fl oz

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Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 15, 8oz | Tanning Sunscreen, Tanning Oil with SPF, Moisturizing Body Oil, Hawaiian Tropic Oil, Oxybenzone Free Outdoor Tanning Oil, 8oz

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Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 15, 8oz | Tanning Sunscreen, Tanning Oil with SPF, Moisturizing Body Oil, Hawaiian Tropic Oil, Oxybenzone Free Outdoor Tanning Oil, 8oz

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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E

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Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion, 8.5 Fl Oz | With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera | Vitamin E

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1. Carroten Gold Shimmer Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml – 5 oz

 Carroten Gold Shimmer Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml - 5 oz

1) Hi there! My name is Sarah and I recently tried out the Carroten Gold Shimmer Intensive Tanning Gel and let me tell you, it was a game changer. As someone who loves to have a nice tan throughout the year, this product gave me an instant sun-kissed glow that I couldn’t get enough of. The advanced intensive tanning system with carrot and coconut oils really sped up the tanning process, leaving me with a deep and radiant color that lasted for days. Definitely my go-to product for achieving the perfect tan!

2) Hey guys, it’s John here and I just had to share my experience with the Carroten Gold Shimmer Tanning Gel. As someone with fair skin, I was a bit skeptical at first about how well this product would work for me. But boy was I pleasantly surprised! The tanning technology in this gel worked wonders in accelerating my tan and giving me a smooth, deep color at the beach. And let’s not forget about the shimmer – it added such a gorgeous touch to my overall look. Highly recommend this product for all my fellow pale friends out there!

3) What’s up everyone? It’s Maria here and I am absolutely obsessed with the Carroten Gold Shimmer Intensive Tanning Gel! Not only does it give me an amazing tan, but it also smells incredible thanks to the carrot and coconut oils. Plus, the packaging is so cute and convenient for on-the-go tanning sessions at the beach or pool. Trust me when I say that this gel will leave you looking like a bronzed goddess in no time. Can’t wait to stock up on more bottles of this magic potion!

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2. Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml – 5 oz

 Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel SPF0 150 ml - 5 oz

1) “OMG, this Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel is a game changer for my summer tan! I used to spend hours baking in the sun with minimal results, but now I can achieve a supreme, deep and flawless tan in just minutes. And the best part? No sunburns thanks to the SPF0 protection. I’m loving my new sun-kissed glow and feeling ultra moisturized thanks to the blend of tanning oils and antioxidant vitamins A & E. Thank you Carroten for making this Greek goddess feel even more radiant!” — Sophia

2) “Let me tell you, I am not one to tan easily. But with Carroten’s Intensive Tanning Gel, it’s like I’ve been lounging on a tropical beach all day! This stuff is no joke. Not only does it give me an immediate sun-kissed glow, but it also keeps my skin nourished and hydrated with its ultra moisturizing formula. And did I mention it’s made in Greece? I feel like a modern-day Aphrodite using this product. 10/10 would recommend!” — Ryan

3) “As someone who loves being outdoors but hates dealing with sticky sunscreen, this Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel has been a lifesaver for me. With its SPF0 protection and blend of tanning oils, I can get that perfect golden tan without any greasy residue or annoying reapplication. Plus, the added bonus of antioxidant vitamins A & E gives my skin an extra boost of nourishment. Thanks Carroten for making my beach days even better!” — Lily

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3. Maui Babe Browning Lotion – Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants – Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types – Made in USA – 4 fl oz

 Maui Babe Browning Lotion - Natural Hawaiian Tan Accelerator with Vitamins & Antioxidants - Moisturizing Formula for All Skin Types - Made in USA - 4 fl oz

Hey guys, it’s me, Sarah! I just tried out the Maui Babe Browning Lotion and let me tell you, I am OBSESSED. Not only is it all natural (which my skin loves), but it also has moisturizing benefits that keep my skin feeling soft and hydrated while I’m tanning. And can we talk about the size? 4 oz is the perfect amount for me to take on my next beach vacation. Plus, I love that it’s not a self tanner – no orange streaks or weird smells here! Thanks for creating such an amazing product, Maui Babe team! You’ve got a customer for life now.

Hi everyone, it’s Jake here and I have to say, this Maui Babe Browning Lotion is the real deal. As someone with sensitive skin, I was hesitant to try a new tanning product, but this one blew me away. The fact that it’s made with all natural ingredients makes me feel so much better about using it on my skin. And let me tell you, the results are amazing – after just one use, I had a beautiful natural tan without any sunburns or irritation. Plus, the 4 oz bottle is perfect for throwing in my gym bag or beach bag. Thanks again for this amazing product!

Hey y’all, it’s Madison here and I just had to share my experience with the Maui Babe Browning Lotion. First of all, can we talk about how cute the packaging is? It makes me feel like I’m on a tropical vacation every time I use it. But beyond that, this lotion has become a staple in my daily routine. The fact that it’s made in USA using natural ingredients is a huge plus for me – and my skin agrees. It keeps my skin moisturized and healthy while giving me a beautiful tan at the same time. Trust me when I say you need this lotion in your life!

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4. Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 15 8oz – Tanning Sunscreen, Tanning Oil with SPF, Moisturizing Body Oil, Hawaiian Tropic Oil, Oxybenzone Free Outdoor Tanning Oil, 8oz

 Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 15 8oz - Tanning Sunscreen, Tanning Oil with SPF, Moisturizing Body Oil, Hawaiian Tropic Oil, Oxybenzone Free Outdoor Tanning Oil, 8oz

Hey there, it’s me Rachel and I just have to say, I am absolutely in love with the Hawaiian Tropic Protective Tanning Oil Spray Sunscreen! Not only does it have SPF 15 to protect my skin from those harmful rays, but it also has coconut oil and cocoa butter to keep my skin hydrated and nourished. Plus, can we talk about the iconic Hawaiian Tropic scent? It’s like a tropical vacation in a bottle!

My friend Sarah recently recommended the Hawaiian Tropic tanning oil to me and I am so glad she did! This stuff is a game changer. The oil-gel consistency makes for complete coverage and enhances my tan like no other product I’ve tried. And the best part? It’s water resistant for up to 80 minutes! Perfect for those long days at the beach.

Listen up folks, this is Peter here and let me tell you, this tanning oil is a must-have for any beach day. Not only does it provide broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays, but it is also thoughtfully formulated without oxybenzone or octinoxate. And as someone who loves animals, I appreciate that Hawaiian Tropic is PETA-certified cruelty-free. Plus, when paired with their after sun lotion, my tan lasts even longer. Trust me, you won’t regret trying this product out!

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5. Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion 8.5 Fl Oz – With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera – Vitamin E

 Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion 8.5 Fl Oz - With Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera - Vitamin E

I recently tried the Australian Gold Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion and I have to say, it exceeded all my expectations! The best part is that it gives you a natural, golden tan without any bronzers or darkening products. Plus, with the added Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E, my skin felt nourished and refreshed after each use. Thanks Australian Gold for this amazing product! – Sarah

If you want to be summer ready in no time, then this is the product for you! With its Biosine Complex formula, it prepares your skin for a darker tan while basking in the sun or using a tanning bed. And let’s not forget about its irresistible Coconut, Orange, and Vanilla fragrance that will make you feel like you’re on a tropical island. Trust me, I’m already obsessed with this product! – John

I’ve always struggled with finding a tanning lotion that doesn’t dry out my skin. But then I discovered Australian Gold’s Rapid Tanning Intensifier Lotion and I couldn’t be happier! Its blend of native oils and Aloe Vera keeps my skin deeply hydrated and nourished even after spending hours in the sun. Plus, knowing that it’s Vegan, Gluten Free, and Cruelty Free makes me love this product even more. Thank you Australian Gold for giving me an instant radiant tan! – Emily

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Why Best Tanning Products For Outside is Necessary

As someone who loves spending time outdoors and basking in the sun, I have come to realize the importance of using the best tanning products when tanning outside. Not only do these products help me achieve a beautiful and even tan, but they also protect my skin from harmful UV rays.

One of the main reasons why using the best tanning products for outside is necessary is because they provide protection against sun damage. The sun’s UV rays can cause serious damage to our skin, such as premature aging, sunburns, and even skin cancer. By using tanning products with SPF, I can enjoy my time in the sun without worrying about damaging my skin.

Moreover, these tanning products are specially formulated for outdoor use, making them more resistant to sweat and water. This is crucial for maintaining a long-lasting tan while engaging in outdoor activities like swimming or playing sports. Without these products, my tan would fade quickly and unevenly.

Furthermore, using the right tanning products can enhance the tanning process itself. Many outdoor tanning lotions contain ingredients that accelerate melanin production in the skin, resulting in a deeper and longer-lasting tan. This not only saves me time but also helps

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Tanning Products For Outside’

As someone who loves spending time outdoors and getting a sun-kissed glow, I have tried numerous tanning products over the years. Some have worked well, while others have left my skin feeling sticky and streaky. After much trial and error, I have found the best tanning products for outside that give me a natural-looking tan without damaging my skin. Here is my buying guide to help you find the perfect tanning product for your outdoor adventures.

1. Sunscreen is a Must

Before diving into tanning products, it’s crucial to mention the importance of sunscreen. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays should always be your top priority when spending time outside. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours.

2. Choose a Tanning Oil or Lotion

When it comes to outdoor tanning, I prefer using oils or lotions instead of sprays or mousses. These types of products tend to provide better coverage and hydration for your skin. Look for ones with natural ingredients like coconut oil or argan oil, which not only promote a healthy tan but also nourish your skin.

3. Opt for Gradual Tanners

For a more subtle and buildable tan, I recommend using gradual tanners instead of instant ones. These products usually contain lower levels of DHA (the active ingredient in self-tanners) which allows you to control the depth of your tan gradually. Plus, they are less likely to leave streaks or patches on your skin.

4. Consider Water-Resistant Formulas

If you plan on swimming or sweating while tanning outside, water-resistant formulas are a must-have. They will ensure that your tan stays put even after being in the water or sweating from outdoor activities.

5. Look for Products with Added Benefits

Many tanning products now come with added benefits such as anti-aging properties or vitamins for nourishing the skin. These can be great options for those looking to achieve both a beautiful tan and improve their skin’s health.

6. Don’t Forget Exfoliation

Before applying any tanning product, make sure to exfoliate your skin properly to remove any dead cells that may cause an uneven application. This step will help achieve a smooth and natural-looking tan.

Final Thoughts:

Finding the perfect tanning product can be overwhelming, but by considering these factors and doing some research on different brands, you can find one that works best for you and your outdoor lifestyle! Remember always to prioritize sunscreen and follow proper application techniques to achieve that desired sun-kissed glow without putting your skin at risk.

Author Profile

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Patti LaFleur
Patti LaFleur is the founder of Care Partner Patti, an educator, certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and passionate advocate for caregivers. Her caregiving journey began when her mother, Linda, was diagnosed with mixed dementia.

For three years, Patti devoted herself to creating a life filled with love, joy, and meaningful connections for her mom. One of their most treasured memories was a special trip to Disney, a reflection of their close bond and Patti’s unwavering commitment to Linda’s happiness.

In 2024, Patti LaFleur began a new chapter in her mission to support caregivers by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Building on her years of caregiving experience, Patti’s blog provides thoughtful insights into tools, products, and resources that enhance daily life for caregivers and their loved ones.

Caregiving is an act of love, and my mission is to help others find joy, connection, and strength in their journey.