Are you struggling to find a reliable tanning lotion manufacturer for your business? Choosing the right supplier is key to maintaining product quality and customer satisfaction.

As cosmetic chemist, I’ve researched top manufacturers to help businesses like yours find trusted suppliers that deliver consistent and high-quality products.

To give you the best options, I’ve carefully analyzed industry leaders based on their production capabilities, product quality, and reliability.

After evaluating multiple manufacturers, Ridgepole emerged as the top choice for its superior formulations, dependable production standards, and unwavering dedication to quality.

In this review, I’ll introduce you to 9 of the best tanning lotion manufacturers. You’ll learn about their specialties, production capabilities, and what sets them apart.

Let’s dive in!

1. Industry Zone Overview

China’s cosmetics industry is built around four major industrial zones, each specializing in different aspects of production, research, and market influence. These hubs drive innovation and shape the country’s position in the global beauty sector. Here are the details:

Pearl River Delta Region (Guangdong Province) – Mass Production & OEM Leader

• Guangzhou: The largest OEM center, supplying major skincare and cosmetics brands.
• Shenzhen: A hub for innovation in skincare and makeup products.

Yangtze River Delta Region (Shanghai & Zhejiang Province) – Home to Global Brands

• Shanghai: Hosts major beauty brands and the “Oriental Beauty Valley.”
• Zhejiang Province: Features five large-scale industrial parks and Huzhou’s thriving “Beauty Town.”

Bohai Economic Rim (Shandong Province) – The Biotech & Raw Materials Center

• Jinan: The leading producer of hyaluronic acid, with top biotech firms.

Southwest Region (Sichuan Province) – Herbal & Emerging Beauty Focus

• Chengdu: Specializes in herbal skincare and new beauty categories like men’s cosmetics.

2. Quick Comparison Chart

Finding the right tanning product manufacturer is essential for businesses seeking high-quality, customizable, and innovative solutions. The table below provides a quick comparison of top manufacturers to help you make wise decisions:

3. Private Label Tan – Best for High-End Brands

City & Country: Australia

Established Date: n/a

Private Label Tan is a leading manufacturer in the sunless tanning industry, supporting entrepreneurs worldwide in building premium beauty brands. The company emphasizes vegan, natural, and ethical beauty products, sourcing premium ingredients and utilizing environmentally friendly packaging. With decades of experience, they offer clients the opportunity to brand quality products from an innovative lab.

Key Products: Their main products include Self Tanning Lotion and Glowing Face Mist. Self Tanning Lotion is designed to provide a natural-looking tan while moisturizing the skin for an even finish. Glowing Face Mist is crafted to refresh and hydrate, delivering a radiant glow with a lightweight, dewy formula.

Takeaway Note:

Private Label Tan is ideal for businesses looking for highly customizable tanning lotion solutions tailored to their brand identity. However, it may not be the best choice for companies needing bulk orders due to its focus on smaller-scale, personalized production.

4. Blackbird Skincare – Best for Innovation

City & Country: Guangdong, China

Established Date: 2002

Blackbird Skincare has been a key player in the skincare industry offering high-quality production, low minimum order quantities, and extensive customization options. They manage the entire supply chain process, from development and sourcing to quality control and delivery, supporting the skincare sourcing and production needs of independent brands, major corporations, and e-commerce retailers.

Key Products: Their main products include Tanning Lotion and Sunscreen. Tanning Lotion is designed to enhance and deepen skin tone while keeping the skin moisturized. Sunscreen is crafted to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sun damage and premature aging.

Takeaway Note:

Blackbird Skincare is a great option for businesses prioritizing natural ingredients in their tanning lotion formulations. However, its high pricing structure might not be suitable for budget-conscious businesses or startups looking for cost-effective solutions.

5. Ridgepole Co., Ltd. – Best for Overall

City & Country: No.68, Jinghu Avenue, Xinya Street, Huadu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong province, China.

Established Date: 1998

Ridgepole is a high-tech enterprise specializing in the research, development, and sales of cosmetics. They possess a 30,000-square-meter science and technology park, and over 100,000 product formulas. The company holds leading advantages in natural plant cosmetics and has obtained multiple certifications, including ECOCERT natural and organic cosmetics certification.

Key Products: Their main products include Tanning Lotion and Tanning Oil. Tanning Lotion is designed to hydrate and gradually enhance skin tone for a sun-kissed glow. Tanning Oil is crafted to accelerate tanning while nourishing the skin, providing a smooth and radiant finish.

Takeaway Note:

Ridgepole is the perfect choice for businesses seeking a well-established manufacturer with a strong focus on natural and organic cosmetics. They have dedicated engineers for each product category to ensure deeper specialization and superior results.

6. AYU Sunless – Best for Personalized Service

City & Country: n/a

Established Date: n/a

AYU Sunless is at the forefront of the sunless tanning industry, offering premium self-tanning solutions without the risks of UV exposure. The company focuses on creating nourishing skin treatments that provide even, streak-free tans that fade naturally. Their commitment to innovation sets them apart, making sure that clients receive both high-quality products and exceptional support.

Key Products: Their main products include Vino Bronzing Self Tanning Lotion and Vino Bronzing Mousse. Vino Bronzing Self Tanning Lotion is designed to provide a gradual, natural-looking tan while deeply hydrating the skin. Vino Bronzing Mousse is crafted for a streak-free, fast-drying application, delivering an even and long-lasting bronzed glow.

Takeaway Note:

AYU Sunless is the perfect choice for businesses seeking a manufacturer that prioritizes personalized service and customer relationships. However, their emphasis on specialized service may result in longer delivery times compared to manufacturers focused solely on mass production.

7. Machiaj Laboratories – Best for Custom Formulations

City & Country: Melbourne, Australia

Established Date: n/a

Machiaj Laboratories is a leading cosmetic manufacturer specializing in tanning, skincare, and body care products. Their in-house chemists and chemical engineers develop custom formulations with a focus on organic and natural ingredients. The company stands out for its boutique batch sizes and short production turnarounds, making it an excellent partner for businesses needing high-quality, tailored cosmetic solutions.

Key Products: Their main products include Tanning Lotion and Professional Spray Tan Solutions. Tanning Lotion is designed to gradually enhance skin tone while keeping the skin moisturized for an even glow. Professional Spray Tan Solutions are crafted for salon-quality, streak-free tanning, providing a customizable and long-lasting bronzed finish.

Takeaway Note:

Machiaj Laboratories is ideal for businesses that need small-batch production with a low minimum order quantity. However, their distribution reach is limited, making it challenging for businesses that need a manufacturer with wide national coverage.

8. Welby – Best for Traditional Formulations

City & Country: United Kingdom

Established Date: 1995

Welby is a well-established manufacturer known for blending science and nature in its skincare and tanning products. With decades of experience and ISO 9001:2015 certification, they provide high-quality formulations infused with natural and organic ingredients. Led by Anne Welby, the company offers flexible solutions for both established brands and startups looking for trusted formulations.

Key Products: Their main products include Exfoliating Creams and Tanning Lotion. Exfoliating Creams are designed to remove dead skin cells, creating a smooth and even surface for better product absorption. Tanning Lotion is crafted to enhance and deepen skin tone while providing hydration for a natural, long-lasting glow.

Takeaway Note:

Welby is a great option for businesses seeking a manufacturer that offers full-service solutions, from product development to packaging. However, their product range is more limited compared to larger manufacturers, which may not suit businesses looking for a broader selection.

9. Nitora – Best for Salon-Focused Manufacturing

City & Country: Poland

Established Date: n/a

Nitorais a leading manufacturer of tanning cosmetics, specializing in products designed for tanning salons. With a strong presence in the European Union and beyond, they are known for their expertise in modern cosmetic formulas, top-tier ingredient sourcing, and adherence to strict production and packaging standards.

Key Products: Their main products include Natural Tanning Lotion and Dry Tanning Oil. Natural Tanning Lotion is designed to provide a sun-kissed glow using plant-based ingredients while keeping the skin hydrated. Dry Tanning Oil is crafted for a lightweight, non-greasy application, accelerating tanning while nourishing the skin.

Takeaway Note:

Nitora is a great choice for tanning salons looking for a manufacturer with advanced production technology and professional-grade formulations. However, their focus on salon-based clients may not suit businesses that need mass-market or retail-ready tanning products.

10. Sol Skin Beauty Labs – Best for Flexible Customization

City & Country: Melbourne, Australia

Established Date: n/a

Sol Skin Beauty Labs is a manufacturer known for its ethical production and high-quality tanning solutions. They provide white-label products formulated from natural ingredients, offering complete customization. Their seamless services include everything from formulation to packaging and distribution, making them a great partner for businesses looking for exclusive, customized tanning solutions.

Key Products: Their main products include Tanning Lotion and Tanning Mousses. Tanning Lotion is designed to gradually enhance skin tone while keeping the skin moisturized for an even, natural glow. Tanning Mousses are crafted for a lightweight, streak-free application, delivering a fast-drying and long-lasting bronzed finish.

Takeaway Note:

Sol Skin Beauty Labs is an excellent choice for brands that need highly flexible, customizable tanning products with no minimum order quantity. . However, they do not hold many industry certifications, which may be a concern for businesses requiring verified compliance with specific regulatory standards.

11. Ed Hardy Tanning – Best for Established Brand Recognition

City & Country: Florida, USA

Established Date: n/a

Ed Hardy Tanning is a well-known name in the tanning industry, offering a wide range of high-quality indoor skincare products. Their products are trusted for delivering deep, long-lasting tans, making them a go-to brand for both personal and professional use. With a reputation built on years of success, they provide reliable tanning solutions backed by a recognized and respected name.

Key Products: Their main products include Indoor Tanning Lotions and Beach Tanning Lotions. Indoor Tanning Lotions are designed to accelerate tanning in UV beds while keeping the skin moisturized and nourished. Beach Tanning Lotions are crafted to enhance sun tanning outdoors, providing hydration and skin protection for a golden, long-lasting glow.

Takeaway Note:

Ed Hardy Tanning is an excellent choice for businesses needing a manufacturer that offers custom packaging solutions tailored to brand aesthetics. However, their sustainability efforts are limited, which may not appeal to businesses prioritizing eco-friendly and green manufacturing practices.

3 Tips To Consider When Choosing Tanning Lotion Manufacturer

Finding the right tanning lotion manufacturer requires careful consideration of key factors that impact product quality and customer satisfaction. Here are important tips to help you choose a manufacturer that meets your business needs:

• Airless Pumps Packaging: Look for airless pump packaging to keep tanning lotions fresh and free from contamination. For example, if your product contains natural ingredients like aloe vera or vitamins, airless pumps help prevent oxidation and maintain effectiveness. This type of packaging is ideal for high-end brands wanting a longer shelf life and better user experience.

• ECOCERT Certification: Confirm that the manufacturer holds ECOCERT certification if you want organic and natural tanning products. This certification guarantees that ingredients are responsibly sourced and meet organic cosmetic standards. It helps businesses attract eco-conscious customers and provides credibility in the clean beauty industry.
• DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): Confirm that the manufacturer of tanning lotion offer DHA as a key ingredient. For example, if your business sells sunless tanners, choosing a manufacturer that uses high-quality DHA will result in a more natural, streak-free tan. Always confirm the DHA concentration and purity to avoid orange-toned or uneven results in your tanning products.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tanning lotion manufacturer is essential for creating high-quality products that align with your brand’s needs. Partnering with a reliable manufacturer helps you offer safe, effective, and professional-grade tanning lotions that customers will love.

We hope this guide has made it easier to find a manufacturer that fits your business. If you’re searching for a tanning lotion manufacturer but are worried about high MOQ, Ridgepole provides a solution. We support small batch orders with a MOQ of just 1,000 bottles, allowing brands to test the market while keeping development costs low. Contact us today to get started!