Bronzers vs. Accelerators vs. Intensifiers: What’s the Real Difference?

By Kristin Jackson

If your staff or clients ever get confused by lotion labels, you’re not alone! Knowing the difference between bronzers, accelerators, and intensifiers is the key to helping your customers pick the right product — and boosting your upsells with confidence.

Let’s break it down, lotion-style.

What Are Bronzers?

Bronzers are the instant gratification part of tanning lotions. They give your skin that beautiful, sun-kissed glow fast. You walk out looking bronzed and radiant without waiting for your tan to develop.

There are two types:

Cosmetic Bronzers: Like makeup, these add immediate color but wash off with your next shower.
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) Bronzers: These create a chemical reaction with the outer skin cells, resulting in a longer-lasting tint that deepens over several hours.

What Are Accelerators?

Accelerators are all about speeding up your natural tan by increasing melanin production. They usually contain ingredients like tyrosine or vitamins that help your skin produce more pigment faster.

Think of accelerators as the “turbo boost” — they help your tan develop quicker and last longer, especially when paired with UV tanning sessions.

What Are Intensifiers?

Intensifiers amp up your color by combining bronzers with moisturizers and skin conditioners. These lotions work to deepen and enhance your tan while keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.

They’re perfect for clients who want a richer, darker color without drying out their skin or risking patchiness.

Why Knowing the Difference Matters

Understanding these lotion types helps your staff:

Recommend the right lotion based on client goals
Explain benefits clearly, building trust and confidence
Increase upsells by matching products to client needs

Tips for Salon Staff

Ask clients about their tanning goals: immediate glow, faster color, or deeper, longer-lasting tan.
Explain how each lotion works in simple terms — no jargon needed!
Suggest layering products, like an accelerator followed by a bronzer, for maximum effect, or choose a product that combines technologies.

Bottom line: Bronzers, accelerators, and intensifiers each play a unique role in tanning. Knowing how to guide clients through these options can turn lotion sales into a breeze — and your clients into loyal fans.