The market for tanning bed lotions has enjoyed a profitable run with the continuous popularity of suntan beds and other indoor tanning equipment. These lotions are formulated to help consumers who use tanning beds get an even, deep tan. Lotions used with sunbeds are different from ordinary tanning lotions commonly used in beach tanning. They are also different from self tanning formulas or sunless tanning creams which do not require the use of sunbeds or any form of UV-emitting devices.

Tanning bed lotions are milder compared with traditional suntan lotions. Since these products are used indoors, manufacturers do not have to worry about the effect of wind, sand and sun on the products' ability to get absorbed by the skin. Unlike regular suntan lotions where the level of SPF depends on the type of skin of the user, the SPF levels of lotions for sunbeds are formulated depending on the type of tanning bed for which they will be used. Some of the better known brands of lotions for tanning beds are California Tan, Body Invest, HP2000, Designer Skin, Australian Gold, John Abate, Hoss Sauce, Supre, Body Drench, Wicked Rays and others.

Aside from sunbed lotions, there are also tanning creams that can be used for indoor tanning without the help of tanning beds. These products are called sunless tanning creams or self tanning lotions. The products facilitate the tanning process without any need for ultraviolet ray exposure. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, self tanning lotions that contain dihydroxyacetone or DHA as their active ingredient are the most effective. Sunless tanning products are non-toxic and are generally considered as safe compared with tanning methods that involve UV exposure. Tan acquired through the use of these products, though, can last for only three to ten days. Medical experts have also warned that DHA may cause contact dermatitis and first time users should first apply DHA-based products in a small patch of skin and wait for 24 hours to observe their effect before applying them on the whole body.

Sunbed lotions and sunless tanning products can be used at home but are also available as special services in salons and other indoor tanning establishments. To produce the best results, the skin should be cleaned and dried before a full body application. Users should avoid swimming and bathing before the lotions are fully absorbed by the body which could take from one to six hours.

Tanning bed lotions and self tanning products offer the advantage of helping consumers acquire a tan without leaving the privacy of their homes or going outside in the sun. But like other indoor tanning supplies, these creams and lotions should be used after a thorough discussion with a dermatologist.