First of all, realize that there are three basic types of tanning lotion. Outdoor tanning lotion is for going into the natural sun and may be more of a sunscreen than a tan enhancer, depending on the details of the product. Indoor tanning lotion is for use in conjunction with indoor tanning salon beds. It moisturizes the skin to protect it and facilitates the speed of the tanning process by increasing melanin in the body. Finally, sunless tanning lotions are available to people who want a natural-looking tan without exposure to UV rays. Figure out which of these tanning lotions you are going to be looking at to drastically narrow down the selection process.

Next, you should know about some of the basic ingredients to look for when buying tanning lotions. When looking at sunless tanning lotions, you’ll find that the main ingredient is DHA. The more of this that there is in the lotion, the darker the tan will likely turn out. DHA may also be an ingredient in indoor tanning lotions. In this case, it’s a lesser amount used as a bronzer to jumpstart the tan. You’ll want to look for tanning lotions that contain Vitamin A and Vitamin E; these are anti-aging vitamins that help keep your skin moisturized and looking fresh even when it’s exposed to rays. You’ll also want to look for indoor tanning lotions which contain tyrosine, a product that helps to keep your pores clean.

Now you know what types of tanning lotions there are and what ingredients to be keeping an eye out for. But what about the differences in your skin type from those of other people? That also affects the products that you will be buying. Your tanning lotions should indicate on their packaging what skin types they are good for. This means you just need to know your tanning skin type. There are 5 different skin types which range from very pale skin that never tans and always burns to very dark skin that never burns and always tans. Work with a salon professional to determine your specific skin type so you can choose tanning lotions that are right for you.

Speaking of tanning salons, that’s one place that you might go when you are ready to begin buying tanning lotions. They are staffed with professionals who are able to assist you in finding the right products based on your specific tanning needs. They’ll also answer any questions that you may continue to have about buying tanning lotions. However, you do have other options for locations to buy tanning lotions. Stores that sell beauty products, day spas and online stores are all places where people buy tanning lotions.