The core difference explained
The primary difference between a tanning accelerator and a tanning maximiser lies in their intended stage of use and their formulation focus. A tanning accelerator is designed to help prepare the skin and kickstart the natural melanin production process, making it ideal for those new to indoor tanning or those just starting a new tanning cycle. In contrast, a tanning maximiser is formulated to push your tanning results further once your skin has already built a base tan, focusing on deep hydration and advanced ingredient complexes to help you achieve a darker, more intense colour.
What is a tanning accelerator?
Tanning accelerators are often the first product recommended for beginners. They focus on providing essential nutrients, such as tyrosine, to the skin to support the body's natural ability to produce melanin. By keeping the skin well-hydrated and nourished, they create an optimal environment for UV light to interact with your skin. You can explore our range of tanning accelerators here.
What is a tanning maximiser?
Once you have established a base tan, your skin may benefit from a more intensive product. Maximisers are designed to build upon that foundation. They often contain more complex ingredient blends that work to deepen the colour and improve skin elasticity. Because they are generally more potent in their approach to hydration and skin conditioning, they are frequently the next step after an accelerator. For more details, see our guide on what a tanning maximiser is.
Which one should you choose?
Choosing between the two depends on where you are in your tanning journey:
- Choose an accelerator if: You are new to sunbeds, have pale skin, or are starting your tanning season from scratch.
- Choose a maximiser if: You have already established a consistent base tan and feel your progress has plateaued or you simply want to deepen your current colour results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a maximiser if I have never tanned before?
While you can, most tanners find that starting with an accelerator allows their skin to adjust to the tanning process more comfortably. Accelerators provide the foundational hydration needed before moving to more intensive formulas.
Do both products contain bronzers?
Not necessarily. Both accelerators and maximisers can come in bronzing or non-bronzing versions. Always check the product description to see if it contains cosmetic or DHA bronzers, or if it is a white-lotion formula.
Can I alternate between the two?
Yes. Many experienced tanners rotate their products to keep their skin hydrated with different ingredient profiles, which can be a useful strategy if you feel your progress has slowed.
