Diving Into Tanning Lotions

California Dreamin' • June 17, 2025

Discover the Secret to a Deeper, Longer-Lasting Glow

Choosing the right tanning lotion isn’t just an option—it’s your key to unlocking your best-ever tan. Whether you’re using UV beds or opting for spray tanning, starting with the proper lotion can make all the difference.


At California Dreamin’ Tanning Salon, we offer a curated selection of top-quality indoor tanning lotions to ensure your skin is hydrated, enhanced, and working at peak color-producing potential.


Why Tanning Lotions Matter


You may have moisturizers at home, but indoor tanning lotions are designed differently. These formulas:


  • Stimulate melanin production, often using Tyrosine or natural activators to deepen your color faster.
  • Provide essential hydration to the skin during a tanning session, preventing dryness and patchiness.
  • Include bronzers, skin softeners, cooling agents, or tingles for added glow and immediate results .



The Four Key Categories of Salon-Grade Lotions


In our original blog, we introduced the four foundational lotion types every tanning client should know. Here’s how they break down:


  1. Intensifiers – Perfect for beginners: no instant bronzers, just pure tanning orange‍ stimulation.
  2. Bronzers (Cosmetic & Natural) – Offer immediate sunkissed color while deepening your UV tan.
  3. Tingle or Accelerator Formulas – These increase blood flow for a deeper, faster tan—great for seasoned tanners.
  4. Cooling & Sensitive Skin Lotions – For comfort and hydration, especially for fair or reactive skin.


Each product is tailored to offer a different experience and result—ask our staff to help match the right lotion to your goals .




Top Benefits of Tanning with California Dreamin’s Lotions


Faster, darker color

Lotions with melanin activators like Tyrosine help skin tan more efficiently.


Even, streak-free result

Hydration ensures an even tone and longer retention.


Immediate glow

With bronzers, you walk away with visible color before stepping into sunlight.


Extra skin care

Many contain Aloe, Shea Butter, or Vitamin E to nourish and smooth skin.

Our team hand-selects lotions that balance performance with skin health—and we even carry tan extenders in the boutique to prolong your results between sessions.



Best Practices for Use & Aftercare


  • Apply lotion generously before entering the bed—it’s essential for a smooth, consistent tan.
  • Hydrate skin daily after your session with lotion or moisturizer to maintain color and softness.
  • Avoid alcohol-based or exfoliating products between visits—they speed up fading.
  • Ask about upgrades like Intensifier + PH Balancing Serum pre-tan or tan extenders after your session for even richer color.


Tip: Clients often choose a moisturization-based lotion on lower-level sessions and try a tingle or bronzer for deeper saturation once they’ve built a base .



Where to Buy


You can purchase salon-grade tanning lotion during your visit—or swing by the Beach Boutique anytime. Not sure which to pick? We’re happy to recommend a lotion that suits your tone, skin sensitivity, and tanning goals.


Interested in exclusive products like Malibu Gold tattoo enhancer, Agave & Lime, or Vacay Vibes lotions? They’re available now and frequently sold out—ask us and we’ll let you know what’s in stock .



The Bottom Line


A great lotion isn’t an add-on—it’s the foundation of your tanning experience. It maximizes results, improves comfort, and keeps your glow lasting longer. At California Dreamin’, it’s all part of our promise: to help you look and feel your best, fast—and sun-kissed, always.


Ready to upgrade your routine? 

Ask about our lotion specials or book your next session with the perfect tanning formula tailored just for you.


Three bottles of tanning lotion: brown and turquoise, white and floral, and orange tube labeled

How to Maximize Your Tan: Tips for Longer-Lasting, Better Color

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How to Maximize Your Tan: Tips for Getting—and Keeping—the Perfect Glow
Woman wearing a white bikini lies in a tanning bed. The bed is blue and the lights above are on.

Debunking 6 Common Myths About Sunless Tanning

August 3, 2025
Sunless Tanning Myths: Busted! Spray tanning and sunless products have come a long way—but the myths? They’re still hangin’ around. At California Dreamin’ Tanning Salon, we hear it all: “I’ll turn orange,” “It smells weird,” “Only influencers get spray tans.” Let’s set the record straight. Here are six of the most common sunless tanning myths—and the truth behind them. 1. “Spray Tans Turn You Orange.” Not anymore. The “Cheeto look” of the early 2000s came from low-quality products and poor application. At CA Dreamin’, we use high-end spray solutions that work with your natural skin tone to deliver a beautiful bronze—not an Oompa Loompa glow. Plus, our trained pros know how to custom-blend shades and apply evenly so your tan looks real, radiant, and smooth. 2. “Sunless Tans Smell Bad.” We get it—the old-school DHA smell was… intense. But today’s formulas are vastly improved. Many of the solutions we carry have light, fresh scents or are completely odor-neutral. Any minor scent that does develop post-application is temporary and usually gone after your first rinse. 3. “Spray Tanning Is Just for Women (or Influencers).” Wrong and wrong. Spray tanning is for everyone. Our clients include athletes, construction workers, business professionals, vacationers, brides, grooms—you name it. Sunless tanning is simply a way to enhance your appearance, boost your confidence, and look your best—whatever your vibe may be. 4. “You Don’t Need to Prep for a Spray Tan.” Actually, prep is everything. Without exfoliating or following pre-tan steps, your spray tan might not apply evenly or last as long. That’s why we always recommend: • Exfoliating the day before • Avoiding lotions, perfumes, and deodorants on the day of • Wearing loose, dark clothing to your appointment 5. “Spray Tans Are Bad for Your Skin.” Nope. DHA is a sugar-based compound that only interacts with the top layer of your skin. It doesn’t penetrate deeper or affect your health. Spray tanning is actually a safer alternative to UV exposure, especially for people who burn easily or want to avoid long-term sun damage. 6. “The Tan Will Rub Off on Everything.” There may be some minimal transfer right after your appointment, but once your tan sets and you’ve done your first rinse, you’re good to go. Wearing dark, loose clothing after your appointment and avoiding white sheets that first night are usually enough to stay worry-free. 💡 The Bottom Line: Don’t Believe the Myths Sunless tanning is smarter, safer, and more stylish than ever before. When done right—with the right products and team (hey, that’s us!)—you get a beautiful glow that looks like you just got back from the coast. 🌴 Ready to Try It for Yourself? Let the team at California Dreamin’ Tanning Salon in Cromwell walk you through your first (or next!) spray tan. We’ll make sure it’s flawless—and myth-free. 📅 Book your appointment today and see why sunless tanning is the glow-up you didn’t know you needed.
Woman sprays spray tan on another woman in a booth; both wear bikinis. One sprays with a black device.

Spray Tanning 101: Get Glowing Without the UV Rays

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Spray Tanning 101: Get Glowing Without the UV Rays Looking for a flawless, sun-kissed tan—without the sun? Say hello to spray tanning, the quickest and safest way to achieve that golden glow year-round. Whether you’re prepping for a vacation, wedding, or just want to look like you’ve spent the weekend in Malibu, spray tanning offers a stunning, customizable tan without UV exposure. What Is a Spray Tan, Exactly? Spray tanning is a sunless tanning method where a fine mist is applied to your body using a handheld machine or booth. This mist contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone)—a sugar-based compound that reacts with your skin’s outer layer to create a bronzed effect. It’s completely safe, FDA-approved, and gives you natural-looking color that develops over several hours. Why Spray Tanning Is a Fan Favorite Here’s why clients love it: • Fast Results: You walk out glowing—no need for multiple sessions. • Customizable Color: Whether you want a subtle glow or a deep tan, we tailor the shade to your preference and skin tone. • UV-Free & Safe for All Skin Types: Great for those with sensitive skin or who want to avoid sun exposure. • Perfect for Events: It’s a go-to for weddings, proms, vacations, and photoshoots. How to Prepare for Your Appointment Want a flawless finish? Here’s your spray tan prep checklist: 1. Exfoliate thoroughly the night before—focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. 2. Shave or wax at least 24 hours before. 3. Avoid lotions, oils, perfumes, and deodorants before your appointment—they can block the tanning solution. 4. Wear loose, dark clothing to your appointment—tight clothes can rub off your tan. What to Expect at California Dreamin’ Our trained tanning specialists will: • Help you choose the best shade for your skin tone and desired depth of tan. • Guide you through the spray tan process with comfort and care. • Provide clear aftercare instructions so your glow stays strong for days. The whole process takes 15–20 minutes, including drying time. Easy, fast, and glow-ready! Spray Tan Aftercare: Lock in the Glow To make the most of your tan: • Wait 6–8 hours (or as recommended) before your first shower. • Avoid sweating, swimming, or getting wet during that time. • Moisturize daily to keep your skin hydrated and extend the tan’s life. • Skip exfoliants and harsh scrubs until you’re ready to tan again. With the right care, your spray tan can last 7–10 days. 🌴 Ready to Glow? Whether you’re new to spray tanning or a seasoned glow-getter, California Dreamin’ Tanning Salon in Cromwell is here to help you look your best—no beach required. 📍 Come visit us and let our friendly team help you glow with confidence!
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