FAQ
General Questions
What is Onyx?
Onyx is a premium skincare brand offering high-quality tanning lotions, accelerators, bronzers, self-tanners and after-tan care. Our products are designed to help you achieve a smooth, even-looking, sun-kissed appearance both indoors and outdoors when used alongside appropriate sun protection.
How do I choose the right product for me?
To achieve a natural-looking tan, it’s important to select the right type of product. Accelerators support your skin’s natural tanning process, while bronzers provide additional colour, either instantly (cosmetic broners) or gradually (DHA-based). Many of our products combine both for a faster, deeper result. Always read the product description to find the formula that best matches your skin type, tanning method and tanning goals.
What’s the difference between a bronzer and an accelerator?
Accelerators are lotions that support the skin’s natural tanning process, often using ingredients such as tyrosine and nourishing complexes. Bronzers provide added colour on top of your natural tan – either instantly through cosmetic pigments or gradually using DHA and other self-tanning agents. Some tanning lotions combine both for enhanced, multi-dimensional tanning results.
Do your products help care for tattooed skin?
Selected Onyx products contain moisturising and conditioning ingredients that help maintain the appearance of tattooed skin during tanning sessions. Look for phrases such as “Tattoo Care” or “Ink Care” on the product page. These products are designed to care for the skin in tattooed areas but do not replace dedicated sun protection or tattoo-specific aftercare.
Application & Longevity
How do I prepare my skin before tanning?
For the best, most even results, we recommend following these steps:
- Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your body 24 hours before tanning to remove dead skin cells.
- Shave: Shave or wax at least 24 hours before applying the product.
- Moisturise: Apply a light, oil-free moisturiser to dry areas such as elbows, knees, ankles and hands immediately before tanning.
Can I use your tanning lotions in a sunbed?
Yes. Many of our products are specially formulated for use in indoor tanning beds. Always check the product label and description to ensure the lotion is suitable for your preferred tanning method.
Can I use indoor lotions outdoors in the sun?
We recommend using outdoor-specific products when sunbathing. Indoor lotions do not contain SPF and are not designed to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. When tanning outdoors, you must apply a separate, broad-spectrum sunscreen with adequate SPF.
Do your products protect me from the sun?
No. Unless explicitly stated on the packaging, Onyx tanning products do not contain SPF and do not provide sun protection. You should always use a separate, broad-spectrum sunscreen when exposed to natural sunlight.
How long does the tan last?
Tans developed with Onyx tanning lotions typically last around 5–7 days, depending on your skin type, lifestyle and aftercare routine. As with all tanning products, individual results may vary.
How can I make my tan last longer?
Daily moisturising is essential. Keeping your skin hydrated slows down the natural exfoliation process and helps your tan fade more evenly. Avoid long, hot showers, frequent swimming in chlorinated pools and excessive scrubbing, as these can cause faster fading.
Will your products stain my clothes or bedding?
Our bronzing lotions are designed to absorb quickly and fade evenly. Temporary cosmetic bronzers may transfer onto clothing or bedding before your first rinse, especially on light fabrics. They are water-soluble and typically wash out during normal laundering. We recommend allowing the product to dry completely before dressing or lying on light-coloured fabrics.
Safety & Ingredients
Will your products turn me orange?
No. Our formulas are developed to create a natural-looking, golden glow when used as directed. We use carefully selected DHA and other tanning ingredients to help avoid the artificial “orange” effect. For best results, follow the preparation and application tips on the product page and apply evenly.
Do you offer self-tanning (sunless) products?
Yes. We offer DHA-based self-tanners that develop colour without the need for UV light. These are ideal if you prefer a sunless glow or wish to top up your tan between indoor or outdoor tanning sessions.
Are your products suitable for sensitive skin?
Our formulas use skin-friendly ingredients and are developed with care. However, no cosmetic product can be guaranteed suitable for every skin type. If you have sensitive skin, allergies or specific skin conditions, we recommend performing a patch test 24 hours before first use and consulting a dermatologist if you are unsure.
Are your products cruelty-free?
Yes, Onyx products are cruelty-free – we do not test our products on animals.
Do your lotions contain parabens or sulphates?
Our formulas are free from parabens, SLS and SLES. For full ingredient information, please refer to the INCI list on each product page or packaging.
Can I use tanning lotion if I’m pregnant?
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or under medical supervision, we recommend speaking to your GP or healthcare professional before using tanning lotions or self-tanners. They can advise you based on your individual circumstances.
Ordering & Shipping
Where are your products made?
Onyx is an international brand, and our products are manufactured in certified facilities within the European Union, in line with strict quality and safety standards for cosmetic products.
Where do you ship?
Orders placed on uk.onyxtan.com are shipped throughout the United Kingdom. Please enter your address at checkout to confirm delivery availability in your area. For more details on delivery options and charges, visit our Delivery Information page.
If you are located outside the UK, please visit our European store or relevant regional website for local availability and shipping options.
How long does delivery take?
Delivery times depend on your chosen shipping option and location within the UK. For current estimates and detailed information, please see our Delivery Information page.
What is your returns policy?
We offer a 14-day change-of-mind return period in addition to your statutory rights. If you experience any issues with your order, please contact our support team. For full details, visit our Returns & Refunds page.
For more information on tanning safety, visit the NHS guide to tanning safely .