Savory LifeRECIPES

Brown Sugar Tanning Lotion Recipe for DIY Glow

Updated November 5, 2026

Total time
10 min
prep 10 min · cook 0 min
Serves
8
portions as written

Jump to recipe

Brown Sugar Tanning Lotion Recipe for DIY Glow

This brown sugar tanning lotion is a homemade, skin-softening blend that combines the gentle exfoliating power of brown sugar with moisturizing oils and a hint of natural tan enhancer. It works by sloughing off dead skin cells while leaving a protective, hydrating layer that helps your tan develop more evenly and last longer. Perfect for pre-tan prep or as a gradual glow booster, this lotion is a spa-style treat you can whip up in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) coconut oil, melted (or olive oil)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) aloe vera gel
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) black tea, brewed strong and cooled (optional, for a deeper tan)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract (optional, for scent)
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt (optional, for extra exfoliation)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar and salt (if using). Stir with a fork to break up any clumps.
  2. Add the melted coconut oil and aloe vera gel. Mix well until the sugar is fully coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
  3. If using black tea, stir it in now. The tea adds a subtle natural tan enhancer, but it will also thin the lotion slightly.
  4. Add the vanilla extract (if using) and stir until evenly distributed.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight jar or container. It should have a thick, gritty but spreadable consistency.
  6. To use: In the shower, apply a generous amount to damp skin using circular motions, focusing on rough areas like elbows, knees, and heels. Massage for 2-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
  7. Pat skin dry and follow with a moisturizer if desired. Do not use on broken or sunburned skin.

Tips

  • Substitute oils: If you don’t have coconut oil, use olive, jojoba, or sweet almond oil. Coconut oil solidifies at room temperature, so warm it gently before mixing if needed.
  • Storage: Keep the lotion in a cool, dry place. Because it contains no preservatives, it’s best used within 2 weeks. Refrigerate to extend shelf life up to a month.
  • Avoid over-exfoliating: Use this scrub no more than 2-3 times per week. Over-scrubbing can irritate skin and make your tan patchy.
  • Patch test first: Apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours to ensure you don’t have a reaction to any ingredient.

Serving Suggestions

Use this lotion as a pre-tan treatment before sunbathing or using a tanning bed, as it helps remove dead skin for a smoother, longer-lasting tan. It also works as a gentle daily body polish in the shower, leaving skin silky and lightly scented. For a post-sun soother, mix a small amount with extra aloe vera gel and apply to cool, damp skin (avoid if skin is burned).

Variations

  • Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon (6 g) of grated orange or lemon zest for a refreshing, bright scent and a natural source of vitamin C.
  • Herbal Infusion: Replace the black tea with cooled chamomile or green tea for a gentler, antioxidant-rich version.
  • Whipped Texture: For a fluffier lotion, whip the coconut oil with a hand mixer for 2-3 minutes before adding the sugar.
  • Sugar-Free Option: Swap brown sugar for fine sea salt or ground coffee for a different texture, though you’ll lose the caramel scent.

Storage and Reheating

Store the lotion in an airtight glass jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. If refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before use. Do not microwave the lotion, as this can melt the sugar and separate the oils. If the coconut oil solidifies, simply warm the jar in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes and stir.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this lotion on my face?
It’s best to avoid the face, as the sugar crystals can be too abrasive for delicate facial skin. If you want a facial scrub, use a finer sugar and be very gentle.

Will this actually make me tan?
The lotion itself doesn’t contain tanning agents like DHA. It helps your existing tan develop more evenly by exfoliating dead skin, and the optional black tea adds a very subtle, temporary tint. For a real tan, you still need sun exposure or a separate tanning product.

How often should I use it?
2-3 times a week is ideal. Using it daily can strip your skin’s natural oils and cause irritation.

Can I use it in the shower?
Yes, but be careful as the oil can make the shower floor slippery. Use a non-slip mat and rinse thoroughly.

What if I have sensitive skin?
Do a patch test first. If you react, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup (100 g) and increase the aloe vera gel to 1/3 cup (80 ml) to make a gentler version.

Can I add essential oils?
Absolutely. Add 5-10 drops of lavender, sweet orange, or peppermint essential oil for fragrance, but check for skin sensitivity first.

Related

More recipes to cook

Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes

Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).