We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Sunbed Creams 2025 in the UK

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BYROKKO Shine Brown Sunbed Tanning Accelerator 210 ml, Fast Bronzing Sunbed Cream Effective in Sunbeds & Outdoor Sun for Deep Natural Tan, Long-Lasting Hydrating Formula with Natural Oils

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,340
Accelerator/Maximizer
Fragrance
Accelerator/Maximizer
This tanning accelerator delivers a brilliant tan while smelling divine.
Fragrance
Offers good value with its pleasant tropical scent, though the texture can be a bit slimy.

The BYROKKO Shine Brown Sunbed Tanning Accelerator is designed to deliver a natural, deep tan with both sunbeds and outdoor sun exposure. Its oil-based formula includes natural ingredients like carrot oil, extra virgin olive oil, walnut oil, and cacao butter. These ingredients not only enhance the tanning process but also nourish and hydrate the skin, offering moisturizing properties.

The product is paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made without harsh chemicals, making it a safer choice for health-conscious users. The tropical Shine Brown scent adds a pleasant fragrance, enhancing the tanning experience.

This product is suitable for those looking for a fast-acting, moisturizing tanning cream with a pleasant scent and natural ingredients. Users should be cautious and use it appropriately to avoid overexposure to UV rays.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,340
Accelerator/Maximizer
Fragrance
Accelerator/Maximizer
This tanning accelerator delivers a brilliant tan while smelling divine.
Fragrance
Offers good value with its pleasant tropical scent, though the texture can be a bit slimy.
#2

Garnier Ambre Solaire Hydra 24 Hour Protect Hydrating Protection Lotion SPF30, High Sun Protection Factor 30, Water Resistant Sunscreen, With Shea Butter, UVA & UVB Protection, 200ml

Garnier Ambre Solaire Hydra 24 Hour Protect Hydrating Protection Lotion SPF30 focuses on providing high sun protection with advanced UVA and UVB safeguards. Its SPF30 rating is ideal for those seeking moderate sun protection, making it suitable for everyday use. It does not seem to include a bronzer or accelerator, elements often looked for in sunbed-creams, so it may not be ideal if you are aiming for a quick tan enhancement.

However, it excels in hydration, enriched with Shea Butter, which helps keep the skin moisturized and counteracts the drying effects of sun exposure. The lotion is water-resistant and fast-absorbing, beneficial for active users who may be swimming or sweating. Although there's no mention of a tingle factor or anti-aging ingredients, it is approved as cruelty-free under the Leaping Bunny Programme, appealing to ethical consumers.

With a pleasant Kaktus fragrance, it offers a sensory plus for users sensitive to strong scents. The product is compact, easy to carry, and universally applicable to all skin types, making it versatile for various users. While it may not check all the boxes for someone specifically seeking a sunbed-cream with bronzing or tingle features, it is a reliable choice for those prioritizing sun protection and hydration.

#3

Babaria Coconut Tanning Accelerator Gel SPF0-300ml, BROWN

Rating
9.4
Bronzer
Moisturizing Ingredients
Fragrance
Bronzer
Delivers a fantastic tanning boost, turning very pale skin into a lovely golden color after a few sessions.
Moisturizing Ingredients
The gel feels very greasy due to its oil-based formula, which can be a downside for some users.
Fragrance
Provides a pleasant coconut scent that enhances the tanning experience but might not suit everyone’s fragrance preferences.

Babaria Coconut Tanning Accelerator Gel is designed to help you achieve a deep, golden tan with its SPF 0 formula, which means it doesn't provide sun protection but focuses on intensifying tanning. It contains coconut oil and aloe vera, which work well to moisturize and hydrate all skin types, making your skin feel smooth while tanning. The gel is 100% vegan and coral-friendly, which is a plus if you prefer environmentally conscious products. Its coconut scent is pleasant but may not suit everyone, especially if you are sensitive to fragrances. The product lacks added anti-aging ingredients, so it doesn’t specifically help protect or repair skin from sun-related aging effects. Being waterproof means it will stay on during water exposure, which is handy if you are at the beach or pool.

This gel is a good choice if you want a natural-feeling moisturizer combined with a tanning accelerator and enjoy a coconut fragrance. Since it has no SPF protection, it’s best suited for controlled tanning environments like sunbeds rather than prolonged sun exposure outdoors. If you’re looking for something with anti-aging benefits or built-in sun protection, you might want to consider other options.

Rating
9.4
Bronzer
Moisturizing Ingredients
Fragrance
Bronzer
Delivers a fantastic tanning boost, turning very pale skin into a lovely golden color after a few sessions.
Moisturizing Ingredients
The gel feels very greasy due to its oil-based formula, which can be a downside for some users.
Fragrance
Provides a pleasant coconut scent that enhances the tanning experience but might not suit everyone’s fragrance preferences.

Buying Guide for the Best Sunbed Creams

Choosing the right sunbed cream is essential for achieving a beautiful tan while protecting your skin. Sunbed creams, also known as tanning lotions, are designed to enhance the tanning process and provide necessary hydration and nutrients to your skin. When selecting a sunbed cream, it's important to consider your skin type, tanning goals, and any specific skin concerns you may have. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
BronzerBronzers are ingredients in sunbed creams that provide an immediate tan by adding a temporary color to your skin. This spec is important because it can give you a quick, sun-kissed look while your natural tan develops. Bronzers come in different levels, from light to dark. If you are new to tanning or have fair skin, start with a lighter bronzer. If you have a base tan or darker skin, you can opt for a medium to dark bronzer. Your tanning goals and skin tone will guide you in choosing the right bronzer level.
Accelerator/MaximizerAccelerators or maximizers are designed to speed up the tanning process by stimulating melanin production in your skin. This spec is important for achieving a deeper tan in a shorter amount of time. Accelerators are generally suitable for beginners or those with fair skin, as they provide a gradual, natural-looking tan. Maximizers are more potent and are better suited for experienced tanners or those with a base tan. Consider your tanning experience and desired tan intensity when choosing between an accelerator and a maximizer.
Moisturizing IngredientsMoisturizing ingredients in sunbed creams help keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy tan. Look for creams that contain ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil. These ingredients are important because they nourish your skin and prolong the life of your tan. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a sunbed cream with rich, hydrating ingredients. For normal to oily skin, a lighter moisturizer will suffice. Your skin type will help you determine the right level of hydration needed.
Tingle FactorTingle factor refers to the sensation caused by certain ingredients in the cream that increase blood flow to the skin, resulting in a more intense tan. This spec is important for experienced tanners looking for a deeper, faster tan. Tingle creams can cause a warming or reddening effect on the skin, so they are not recommended for beginners or those with sensitive skin. If you are new to tanning, it's best to avoid tingle creams until you are more experienced and comfortable with the tanning process.
Anti-Aging IngredientsAnti-aging ingredients in sunbed creams help protect your skin from the signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. These ingredients, like vitamins A, C, and E, are important because they provide antioxidants that combat free radicals and promote skin health. If you are concerned about aging or have mature skin, look for a sunbed cream with anti-aging properties. This will help you achieve a beautiful tan while keeping your skin youthful and radiant.
FragranceFragrance in sunbed creams can enhance your tanning experience by providing a pleasant scent. This spec is important for those who prefer a sensory experience while tanning. Fragrances can range from fruity and floral to more subtle, clean scents. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, opt for a fragrance-free or hypoallergenic sunbed cream. Your personal preference and skin sensitivity will guide you in choosing the right fragrance.