Are you searching for a tanning lotion that delivers a deep, golden bronze without the streaks or chemical smell? The Designer Skin Awestruck tanning lotion has been turning heads in tanning salons and bedrooms across the country.
This 65X Invincible Bronzer promises instant color, long lasting results, and skin that feels like velvet. But does it actually live up to the buzz?
In this Awestruck tanning lotion review for 2026, we break down everything you need to know. We cover the formula, the fragrance, the bronzing power, the skin care benefits, and the real user results.
Key Takeaways
- Designer Skin Awestruck features an Enhanced 65X Invincible Bronzer that combines instant and delayed bronzing agents for color that shows up right away and continues to deepen over hours.
- The lotion contains Encapsulated Charcoal Beads that burst on contact with your skin. These beads help clarify and detoxify while you tan.
- Hero Contour Complex with Garcinia helps tone and define skin for a sculpted look, making this more than just a bronzer.
- Super 3 Silicone Technology blends three silicones for triple moisturizing power. Your skin stays soft and hydrated without a heavy or greasy feel.
- The Paradise Coconut & Musk fragrance is a fan favorite. Many users say it smells amazing hours after their tanning session.
- Awestruck works best for intermediate to advanced tanners who already have a base tan. Beginners with very light skin should build up gradually.
- bronzing ingredients, with Bronze Wonder Elixir for even color and stunning results Encapsulated Charcoal Beads impart potent Activated Charcoal that helps to detoxify and revitalize as they melt onto skin for a boost of purity and a perfected look Paradise Coconut & Musk Fragrance
Last update on 2026-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!
What Is Designer Skin Awestruck Tanning Lotion?
Designer Skin Awestruck is a premium indoor tanning lotion made by New Sunshine LLC. New Sunshine has been a leading manufacturer in the indoor tanning industry since 1985. They produce well known brands like Australian Gold, Swedish Beauty, and California Tan. Designer Skin is their luxury line.
Awestruck sits near the top of the Designer Skin product lineup. It features a 65X Invincible Bronzer blend that uses both cosmetic and DHA bronzers. This means you see color right after application, and that color keeps building while you tan and for hours afterward.
The lotion comes in a 13.5 fl oz bottle and is also available in single use packets for those who want to try it before committing. It has earned strong ratings across tanning retailer websites, with most reviewers giving it 4 to 5 stars.
One of the standout features is the Encapsulated Charcoal Beads inside the formula. These tiny beads pop when you rub the lotion into your skin. They release activated charcoal that helps pull impurities from your pores and leaves your skin feeling refreshed.
How Does the 65X Invincible Bronzer Work?
The 65X Invincible Bronzer is the heart of the Awestruck formula. It uses a two phase approach to deliver color. The first phase gives you an instant cosmetic bronze the moment you apply the lotion. This is the immediate glow you see before you even step into the tanning bed.
The second phase involves DHA based delayed bronzing. DHA (dihydroxyacetone) reacts with amino acids on the surface of your skin. This chemical reaction produces a darker pigment that develops over several hours. So your tan continues to deepen well after your session ends.
This combination is what makes the 65X rating so effective. You get quick visual results plus a deeper, longer lasting tan that sticks around for days. Users report that their color looks natural and warm rather than orange or muddy.
The Bronze Wonder Elixir inside the formula also plays a key role. It contains a custom blended DHA level paired with moisture locking agents. This fusion helps the bronzing ingredients spread evenly across your skin. Even application means fewer streaks and a more uniform tone.
Encapsulated Charcoal Beads: A Unique Feature
One of the first things you notice about Awestruck is the tiny beads floating inside the lotion. These are Encapsulated Charcoal Beads, and they set this product apart from most other tanning lotions on the market.
When you squeeze the lotion onto your hands and start rubbing, the beads burst open. They release activated charcoal directly onto your skin. Activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb toxins, dirt, and excess oil from pores. This gives your skin a cleaner, more refreshed feel before you tan.
The beads also provide a gentle exfoliating action. As they break apart, they lightly buff the surface of your skin. This helps remove dead skin cells that could block the bronzing agents from absorbing evenly. The result is a smoother, more consistent tan.
Some users say the beads require a little extra rubbing time. One reviewer noted it “takes a little longer to get it rubbed in because of the little beads.” But the same reviewer also said the extra effort is worth it because the color results are excellent.
If you have sensitive skin, the beads are gentle enough for most skin types. They dissolve quickly and do not leave a gritty residue behind.
Hero Contour Complex and Skin Care Benefits
Awestruck is more than just a bronzer. It doubles as a skin care product with ingredients that benefit your skin while you tan. The Hero Contour Complex is a great example of this dual purpose approach.
The Hero Contour Complex contains Garcinia, a tropical fruit loaded with antioxidants. Garcinia naturally produces hydroxycitric acid, which is known for its ability to help break down fats. This complex aids your skin’s natural process of toning and defining for a sculpted appearance.
Beyond the contour benefits, the lotion also includes vitamins and botanical extracts that nourish your skin. These ingredients help combat the drying effects of UV exposure. Your skin stays softer and more supple compared to tanning without lotion.
The antioxidant properties in the formula also help fight free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage skin cells and speed up aging. By including antioxidant rich ingredients, Awestruck helps protect your skin during the tanning process.
Many users appreciate that this lotion leaves their skin feeling hydrated for hours after tanning. The moisturizing action comes from both the silicone blend and the botanical ingredients working together. Dry, flaky post tan skin becomes much less of an issue.
Top 3 Alternatives for Awestruck Tanning Lotion
- High DHA, High Cosmetic and High Natural Bronzers – 70X Color Frenzy Fusion – Microbiome Balancer – High Key Bronzing Blend – Real Reflection Complex – Precision Perfecting Silicone – Fragrance: Strawberry Pear Daiquiri
Last update on 2026-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!
- 100X Bronzer High DHA, High Cosmetic and High Natural Bronzers Designed for Experienced DHA Tanners Limited Edition/Quantities Deluxe Silicones ATO Inhibitor No Added Aloe, Hemp, Gluten, Parabens, or Soy Extremely Dark Brown Lotion Color Fragrance: Pink Stardust – Pink Pearl Apple, Violet Leaf, Strawberry, Rose, Caramel, Amber & Musk Manufacture doe not factory seal this item
Last update on 2026-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!
- 100X BRONZING POWER - Get a deep, dark and long-lasting tan with this dark tanning accelerator. This powerful formula is designed to enhance your natural tan and give you 100 times more bronzing power. Say goodbye to pale skin and hello to a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow!
- ULTRA-DARK INDOOR/OUTDOOR TANNING LOTION - Achieve a deep, natural tan with this powerful tan oil. Formulated for use both indoors and outdoors, this lotion contains a silicone bronzer to enhance your tan and leave your skin glowing. Experience 100X dark results with this easy-to-use tanning lotion.
Last update on 2026-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!
Super 3 Silicone Technology Explained
The Super 3 Silicone Technology is a key reason why Awestruck feels so luxurious on the skin. This system combines three different types of silicones into one formula. Each silicone serves a specific purpose.
The first silicone provides moisture retention. It creates a thin barrier on the skin that locks in hydration without clogging pores. This keeps your skin soft and prevents the tight, dry feeling that some tanning lotions cause.
The second silicone delivers optical blurring. This means it smooths out the appearance of fine lines, pores, and skin texture. Your skin looks airbrushed and flawless right after application. This blurring effect also helps the bronzing agents sit more evenly on the surface.
The third silicone ensures a lightweight feel. Many bronzing lotions feel thick and heavy. The silicone blend in Awestruck keeps the formula breathable. Your skin does not feel coated or suffocated. Instead, it feels silky and smooth.
Together, these three silicones extend the life of your color. The moisture barrier they create helps your tan last longer between sessions. This gives you more value per bottle since you may not need to tan as frequently.
The Fragrance: Paradise Coconut and Musk
Let’s talk about the smell because fragrance matters in a tanning lotion. Nobody wants to walk around smelling like chemicals after a session. Awestruck features a Paradise Coconut & Musk scent that users absolutely love.
The coconut note gives the lotion a tropical, beachy vibe. It is sweet but not overpowering. The musk adds a warm, slightly sultry undertone that balances the sweetness. Together, these notes create a fragrance that smells like a luxury vacation.
Multiple reviewers have called out the scent as a major selling point. One user said it “smells so good even hours after tanning.” Another described it as “awesome” and said the scent lingers on skin and clothing in a pleasant way.
If you are sensitive to strong fragrances, keep in mind that this lotion does have a noticeable scent. However, most users find it enjoyable rather than irritating. It does not have the typical self tanner smell that many DHA based products carry.
The fragrance also helps mask the natural scent of DHA development. As the delayed bronzer activates on your skin, it can sometimes produce a slight chemical odor. The Paradise Coconut & Musk blend does a good job of covering this up.
Who Should Use Awestruck Tanning Lotion?
Awestruck is not a beginner tanning lotion. Its 65X bronzer formula is designed for tanners who already have a moderate base tan. If you are new to indoor tanning and have very fair skin, this product may deliver results that are too dark or uneven.
Intermediate tanners will get the best results from Awestruck. If you have been tanning for a few weeks and have built up a light to medium base, this lotion will take your color to the next level. The bronzing agents work with your existing melanin to create deeper, richer tones.
Advanced tanners who want a high end product without jumping to the very top of the price scale will also appreciate this lotion. It sits below the Misbehaved in the Designer Skin lineup but still delivers impressive bronzing power.
This lotion works for all skin types thanks to its moisturizing formula. Dry skin, oily skin, and combination skin can all benefit from the silicone blend and botanical ingredients. However, if you have extremely sensitive skin, doing a patch test first is always a smart move.
Awestruck is primarily marketed for indoor tanning bed use. Some users also apply it before outdoor sun exposure. Just keep in mind that it does not contain SPF, so you will need a separate sunscreen for UV protection outdoors.
How to Apply Awestruck for Best Results
Getting the most from Awestruck starts with proper preparation. Exfoliate your skin at least 24 hours before your tanning session. Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells. This creates a smooth canvas for the lotion.
Shower and dry off completely before applying. Do not apply body oils, perfumes, or other lotions before Awestruck. These products can create a barrier that prevents the bronzing agents from absorbing properly.
Squeeze a generous amount into your hands and massage it evenly across each body part. Work in sections: start with your legs, then move to your arms, torso, and back. Pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. These spots tend to absorb more product and can appear darker if over applied.
When you encounter the charcoal beads, rub them in thoroughly. They need to burst open to release the activated charcoal. Take your time with this step. Once all the beads have dissolved, the lotion should feel smooth and even.
Wash your hands after application to avoid dark palms. Wait about five minutes for the lotion to absorb before stepping into the tanning bed. This gives the formula time to bond with your skin for optimal results.
Real User Reviews and Feedback
User reviews paint a mostly positive picture of the Awestruck tanning lotion. Across multiple tanning retail sites, this product holds strong ratings with the majority of reviews landing at 4 or 5 stars.
One reviewer called it “the BEST bronzer designer skin has ever made” and said they rebuy it every time. They highlighted the golden tan it delivers, which avoids the orange tint that cheaper bronzers sometimes produce.
Another user praised the lotion for going on smoothly, noting that “a little goes a long way.” This is important because the product sits at a premium price point. Knowing you do not need to use half the bottle per session means it lasts longer than you might expect.
The most common criticism comes from one reviewer who experienced streaking. This is often related to application technique rather than the product itself. Even application and thorough blending are essential for a streak free result.
Several users noted the charcoal beads as a standout feature. One said the beads “add something great to this lotion” and recommended Awestruck over the Misbehaved. Others love pairing it with enhancing drops for even darker results.
Awestruck Tanning Lotion Price and Value
Awestruck sits in the premium price tier for indoor tanning lotions. A 13.5 fl oz bottle typically costs between $50 and $80 depending on the retailer. This is higher than drugstore options but consistent with other Designer Skin products.
Is it worth the price? Most users say yes. The combination of powerful bronzing, high quality skin care ingredients, and a long lasting formula means you get a lot of bang for your buck. A single bottle can last several weeks with regular use because the formula is concentrated.
The charcoal beads, silicone technology, and Hero Contour Complex add value that cheaper lotions simply do not offer. You are paying for both tanning performance and skin care benefits in one bottle.
If you want to try before you commit, sample packets are available from many tanning retailers. These single use packets let you test the formula for a fraction of the cost. This is a smart approach if you are unsure whether the 65X bronzer is right for your skin tone.
For those who love the product, the Awestruck Tan Extender is a companion lotion that helps prolong your color between sessions. It uses Invisible Barrier Technology and hydrating ingredients to keep your bronze looking fresh for days.
Awestruck Tan Extender: The Perfect Companion
The Awestruck Tan Extender is a must have if you want to maximize the life of your tan. This 16 oz lotion is designed to be used daily between tanning sessions. It locks in color and keeps your skin hydrated.
The extender uses Invisible Barrier Technology, which creates a silicone enhanced shield on your skin. This barrier prevents moisture loss and protects your tan from fading quickly. The result is longer lasting bronze without needing to tan as often.
It also contains a powerful blend of hydrating and conditioning ingredients. These help repair and nourish skin that has been exposed to UV light. Your skin stays soft, smooth, and healthy looking even with regular tanning.
The Tan Extender carries the same Paradise Coconut & Musk fragrance as the original Awestruck bronzer. This means your scent stays consistent whether you are using the bronzer or the extender. Many users appreciate this continuity.
Using both products together creates a complete tanning system. You apply Awestruck before your session for deep color. Then you use the Tan Extender daily to maintain that color. This approach reduces how often you need to tan while keeping your glow strong.
Pros and Cons of Awestruck Tanning Lotion
Every product has strengths and weaknesses. Here is an honest breakdown of what Awestruck does well and where it falls short.
The pros are significant. The 65X bronzer delivers fast, visible results with color that continues to build. The charcoal beads add a unique detoxifying element. The Paradise Coconut & Musk scent is widely loved. The Super 3 Silicone Technology keeps skin soft without a greasy feel. And the Hero Contour Complex offers real skin care benefits beyond just tanning.
The cons are worth noting too. The price point is higher than average, which may put it out of reach for casual tanners. The charcoal beads require extra rubbing time, which some users find inconvenient. And the 65X bronzer is too strong for beginners with fair or untanned skin.
One more consideration is that this lotion is best purchased from authorized retailers. Some Amazon sellers have been flagged for selling watered down or expired tanning products. Always check seller ratings and reviews before buying online.
Overall, the pros heavily outweigh the cons for intermediate and advanced tanners. If you are serious about your tan and want a premium product that performs, Awestruck delivers on its promises.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Awestruck in 2026?
The Designer Skin Awestruck remains one of the best indoor tanning lotions available in 2026. Its 65X Invincible Bronzer produces gorgeous golden color that looks natural and lasts for days. The skin care benefits set it apart from basic bronzers, and the charcoal beads give it a unique edge.
If you are an intermediate or advanced tanner looking for a premium lotion, Awestruck is a strong choice. Pair it with the Tan Extender for a full tanning system that keeps your color locked in. The investment pays off through longer lasting results and healthier looking skin.
For beginners, consider starting with a lower bronzer and working your way up to Awestruck once you have a solid base tan. This will help you avoid uneven application and get the best possible results from this formula.
Bottom line: Awestruck earns its place as a top tier tanning lotion. The formula is smart, the results are real, and the experience is luxurious. If your tanning game needs an upgrade, this is the bottle to grab.
FAQs
Is Awestruck tanning lotion good for beginners?
Awestruck is best for intermediate to advanced tanners. The 65X bronzer can be too intense for very fair or untanned skin. If you are new to tanning, build a base tan first with a lower level bronzer. Once you have a light to medium tan, you can safely move up to Awestruck for deeper color.
Does Awestruck tanning lotion cause streaks?
Most users report a smooth, streak free application. Streaking usually happens from uneven application or not blending the lotion thoroughly. Make sure to exfoliate before your session and rub the lotion in completely, including the charcoal beads. Washing your hands after application also prevents dark spots on your palms.
How long does the Awestruck tan last?
The tan from Awestruck typically lasts 5 to 7 days depending on your skin type and aftercare routine. Using the Awestruck Tan Extender daily can help prolong your color even further. Moisturizing regularly and avoiding harsh soaps will also extend the life of your bronze.
Can I use Awestruck for outdoor tanning?
While Awestruck is primarily designed for indoor tanning beds, some users do apply it before outdoor sun exposure. However, it does not contain SPF. You must apply a separate sunscreen over the lotion if you plan to tan outdoors. Without sun protection, you risk sunburn and skin damage.
What does Awestruck smell like?
Awestruck has a Paradise Coconut & Musk fragrance. Users describe it as tropical, warm, and pleasant. The scent lasts for hours after application. It does a good job of masking the typical DHA chemical smell that some bronzing lotions have.
Where is the best place to buy Awestruck tanning lotion?
You can buy Awestruck from authorized tanning retailers, salon supply stores, and Amazon. If buying online, check seller reviews carefully. Some third party sellers may carry products that are expired or not authentic. Purchasing from a reputable source ensures you get a genuine, fresh product.
I’m Lily Thompson writing for Creative Vibes, you can find me browsing tattoo conventions, attending art exhibitions, or experimenting with new design concepts. I believe that tattoos are a powerful form of self-expression, and I’m dedicated to sharing my knowledge and insights with others who share my passion. Whether you’re a seasoned tattoo collector or just starting your ink journey, I hope to inspire and educate you with my articles and features on Creative Vibes.