The Science Behind Tanning Accelerators & How They Give You a Darker Tan Faster

The Science Behind Tanning Accelerators & How They Give You a Darker Tan Faster

Tanning accelerators are one of the most popular categories in the sunbed world — and for good reason. Whether you're new to tanning or a dedicated sunbed lover, using an accelerator can completely transform your results. From faster melanin production to deeper colour development and improved hydration, accelerators are the secret to achieving that rich, even, long-lasting golden glow.

In this guide, we’re breaking down exactly how tanning accelerators work, why they’re essential, and how top-performing favourites like Go to Black, Hydromax, Blonde Obsession, Pink Sandz, and Beach Club help you tan better than ever.


What Exactly Are Tanning Accelerators?

Tanning accelerators are lotions designed to boost melanin production — the pigment responsible for tanning. When you’re on a sunbed, your skin produces melanin in response to UV exposure. Accelerators contain ingredients that help this process happen:

Faster

Your skin becomes more responsive to UV, cutting down how many sessions you need.

Darker

You build richer, deeper colour because you’re producing more pigment.

Even and Smooth

Hydrating ingredients prevent patchy, dry, uneven tans.

Safer

Many accelerators include soothing or cooling ingredients that reduce the risk of burning.


How Tanning Accelerators Work – The Science

Most accelerators rely on powerful ingredients such as:

Tyrosine & Melanin Boosters

These help stimulate the melanin pathway more quickly, so your skin reacts efficiently during your sunbed session.

Hydrating Complexes

Hydrated skin tans far better than dry skin. Ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, coconut oil, and hyaluronic acid ensure your colour lasts longer.

Anti-Redness / Anti-Burn Ingredients

A growing trend, especially with popular lotions like Top Secret, includes cooling agents that help reduce burning, redness, and overstimulation.

Collagen & Skin-Firming Ingredients

Some accelerators support anti-ageing and collagen stimulation, making them great for frequent tanners.


Why You Should Use a Tanning Accelerator Instead of Tanning “Dry”

Many people think tanning lotion is optional — but tanning without lotion can slow down your results dramatically.

Here’s why using an accelerator is essential:

1. You tan faster

Without a lotion, your skin needs to warm up and hydrate itself before melanin production starts — wasting valuable minutes of UV exposure.

2. You tan darker

Dry skin reflects UV light instead of absorbing it. Hydrated skin absorbs UV evenly, leading to richer results.

3. You protect your skin barrier

Good accelerators help prevent irritation, redness, and tightness.

4. Your tan lasts much longer

Accelerators lock in moisture, preventing flaking and peeling.


The Best Tanning Accelerators You Should Use

Here’s a breakdown of your top-selling accelerators and why customers love them.


🌟 Go to Black – Fast Results, Deep Colour

Why it’s popular:
Go to Black is a customer favourite because it gives incredibly fast colour development thanks to advanced melanin boosters and a rich creamy formula. It’s designed for anyone who wants noticeable results after just one or two sessions.

Key Benefits:

  • Rapid tan acceleration

  • Deep hydration keeps skin soft and glowy

  • Helps build a dark base tan quickly

  • Ideal for beginners and experienced tanners

Great for anyone wanting consistent deep colour without bronzers.


❄️ Top Secret (Cooling) – For Sensitive Skin & Anti-Burn Protection

Although not a traditional accelerator, Top Secret is perfect for people who burn easily or struggle with redness.

Key Benefits:

  • Cooling formula reduces overheating

  • Helps prevent burning and UV irritation

  • Smooth, even colour development

  • Perfect for beginners and fair skin

A must-have for those who want a safe, comfortable tan.


💧 Hydromax – Maximum Hydration + Deep Glow

Hydromax focuses on one thing: skin moisture. Since hydrated skin tans dramatically better, this lotion delivers glowing, smooth, long-lasting colour.

Key Benefits:

  • High-level hydration for deeper results

  • Prevents dryness and peeling

  • Helps prolong tan life

  • Excellent for regular tanners

Great for people with dry skin or anyone wanting a glossy, conditioned finish.


💛 Blonde Obsession – Brightening & Glow-Boosting Accelerator

Designed to brighten and enhance lighter skin tones, Blonde Obsession helps build a warm, golden colour without going too dark too fast.

Key Benefits:

  • Perfect for fair or blonde skin

  • Prevents redness

  • Natural, golden-toned tan

  • Skin-conditioning and smoothing

Ideal for those who want a pretty, natural-looking glow.


🌸 Pink Sandz – Summer Glow & Hydrating Accelerator

Pink Sandz is all about that summer holiday glow — soft, bronzy, beachy colour and silky skin.

Key Benefits:

  • Smooth hydrating finish

  • Helps achieve a warm, summery tan

  • Lightweight and great for all skin types

  • Beautifully scented and easy to apply

Perfect for people who want a golden, radiant finish.


🏝 Beach Club – Glow Enhancing & Skin Softening

Beach Club is a fun, hydrating accelerator ideal for anyone who wants a smooth, even tan without heavy lotion.

Key Benefits:

  • Fast colour development

  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula

  • Enhances glow and softness

  • Perfect all-rounder

A great everyday tanning lotion for all skin types.


How to Get the Best Results with Accelerators

Follow these tips for maximum colour:

✔ Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning

Removes dead skin and prevents patchy colour.

✔ Apply your accelerator before every session

Consistency = deeper tan.

✔ Moisturise daily

Prolongs your results and prevents peeling.

✔ Don’t overdo UV exposure

Better results come from steady sessions, not burning.


Final Thoughts

Tanning accelerators are essential if you want to tan faster, darker, and more evenly — without damaging your skin or wasting sessions. Whether you want deep colour from Go to Black, cooling comfort from Top Secret, intense hydration from Hydromax, or a golden glow from Pink Sandz, Blonde Obsession, or Beach Club, there’s an accelerator suited for every tanning style.

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