Overview

Fiesta Sun Black Cherry Crush Tanning Lotion enters the indoor tanning market as a dark tanning accelerator — not an SPF product, and that distinction matters. This is a tool for intensifying UV-driven color development, nothing more. Fiesta Sun sits comfortably in the mid-range of the sun care space, making this cherry tanning lotion accessible to both casual tanners and salon regulars who go through bottles quickly. What catches attention right away is the cherry fragrance, bold enough to stand out among the endless tropical and vanilla competitors on the shelf. The mineral oil-free formula is also worth noting upfront, as it signals a slightly more skin-conscious approach than many budget accelerators.

Features & Benefits

The lotion-oil hybrid texture is one of the first things you notice when applying the Black Cherry Crush. It spreads easily and absorbs at a reasonable pace, though oilier skin types may find it sits on the surface a bit longer than a straight lotion would. As a tanning accelerator, it works by supporting your skin's natural melanin response to UV light — no artificial bronzers, no DHA staining. The moisturizing component feels functional rather than transformative; skin stays comfortable during and after a session without feeling stripped. Being mineral oil-free keeps the formula from feeling overly occlusive, a genuine plus for anyone prone to clogged pores after tanning bed sessions.

Best For

This Fiesta Sun accelerator makes the most sense for regular indoor tanners who already have an established base and want to push their color deeper without relying on bronzer pigments or DHA-based self-tanners. If you walk into a tanning salon with a goal of pure, natural-looking depth, this cherry tanning lotion fits that use case well. It also appeals to buyers who care about keeping mineral oil out of their routine — a reasonable concern when skin is in a heated, open, absorptive state. The mid-range price makes it easy to commit to without the pressure of a high-end salon product. Not the right pick for beginners building a base from zero.

User Feedback

Buyers consistently highlight the cherry scent as a standout feature — it is sweet and noticeable without being overwhelming, which cannot be said about every scented tanning product out there. The loyalty factor is real; several repeat buyers cite the fragrance and comfortable skin feel as the reason they return. On the flip side, some users feel the tan depth does not quite match expectations, especially those who switched from a bronzer-included formula. A handful of reviewers mention layering a separate moisturizer post-session, suggesting the hydration is adequate but not exceptional. Texture feedback skews positive, with little mention of sticky or greasy residue — a common complaint in this category that this lotion largely sidesteps.

Pros

  • Cherry fragrance is genuinely pleasant and distinct — a real differentiator in a market full of tropical clones.
  • Mineral oil-free formula is a smart choice for tanners who care about pore health during heated bed sessions.
  • Spreads evenly across skin without requiring excessive product, helping the bottle last through multiple sessions.
  • Works as a clean, pure accelerator with no bronzer transfer onto clothing or tanning bed surfaces.
  • Skin stays comfortable during and after sessions, without the tight or stripped feeling some lotions leave behind.
  • Mid-range pricing makes it a realistic, repeatable option for frequent tanners on a practical budget.
  • Strong repeat-buyer following suggests the overall experience consistently holds up across multiple uses.
  • Lotion-oil hybrid texture absorbs without leaving a heavy or overly greasy film on most skin types.

Cons

  • No bronzer or DHA means zero immediate color payoff — results depend entirely on UV exposure and your existing base.
  • Tan depth may underwhelm users switching from a bronzer-included formula who expect more dramatic per-session results.
  • Hydration is functional but may not be sufficient for very dry skin types without a separate post-tan moisturizer.
  • The cherry scent, while appealing to many, could be a dealbreaker for fragrance-sensitive users or shared salon spaces.
  • Offers no sun protection whatsoever, making it unsuitable and potentially unsafe for any outdoor UV exposure.
  • Oilier skin types may find the formula takes noticeably longer to absorb than a lighter, water-based lotion would.
  • Standard 9.17-ounce size may feel short-lived for generous applicators who tan multiple times per week.
  • No visible accelerant feedback during application — no tingle, no warming sensation — which some salon-goers prefer as a cue.

Ratings

The scores below were generated by AI after analyzing thousands of verified buyer reviews for Fiesta Sun Black Cherry Crush Tanning Lotion, with spam, incentivized, and bot-flagged submissions actively filtered out before scoring. Our model evaluates real-world usage patterns across a global buyer base, weighting both praise and pain points in equal measure. What you see here reflects an honest, balanced consensus — not a curated highlight reel.

Tan Development
74%
26%
Users with a solid existing base consistently report that this Fiesta Sun accelerator genuinely helps push color to a deeper, richer level over multiple sessions. Regular salon-goers appreciate that the development feels natural rather than streaky, which matters when tanning frequently and wanting results that hold between visits.
Without any bronzer or DHA, first-time users often feel let down when they step out of the booth looking no different than when they stepped in. The accelerator effect is cumulative and gradual, which works against it for anyone expecting visible results within the first one or two sessions.
Fragrance Appeal
88%
The cherry scent consistently earns some of the strongest praise across all buyer feedback for this lotion. Salon regulars surrounded by competing fragrances all day find the fruity, sweet profile refreshing and distinct — it does not smell clinical or synthetic the way many budget accelerators do.
A notable minority of users find the cherry fragrance too sweet or artificial for an enclosed tanning booth environment, where scents can feel amplified by heat. Those sensitive to fragrance in general will want to sample before committing to a full bottle.
Texture & Absorption
76%
24%
For most skin types, the lotion-oil hybrid spreads smoothly and absorbs well within a few minutes, leaving skin feeling coated and prepared for UV exposure without requiring excessive rubbing. Dry-to-normal skin types in particular report a comfortable, non-tight feel throughout their sessions.
Users with oily skin flag that the formula can feel like it is sitting on the surface longer than expected before fully absorbing, which is uncomfortable when trying to settle into a tanning bed quickly. A small number of users also report a faint residual film on skin after sessions.
Moisturizing Effect
71%
29%
Skin does not emerge from sessions feeling dry or stripped, which is a real concern with cheaper accelerators that sacrifice hydration for tan-focused actives. For normal and combination skin types, the moisture level hits a comfortable baseline that holds up reasonably well between tanning days.
Users with genuinely dry skin frequently report needing to follow up with a dedicated body moisturizer after their session, suggesting the hydration this lotion provides is functional but not intensive enough to stand alone. Those tanning multiple times a week may find skin feels progressively drier without supplementing.
Value for Money
83%
At its mid-range price point, the Black Cherry Crush holds its own against salon-exclusive lotions that often cost significantly more for comparable accelerator functionality. Frequent tanners who go through multiple bottles per season find it offers a solid return without the guilt of spending at premium salon retail rates.
Some buyers feel the per-session cost is harder to justify when tan depth falls short of expectations, especially for those who mistakenly expected bronzer-level results from a pure accelerator. The 9.17 oz bottle size also means heavy applicators may find themselves reordering sooner than anticipated.
Color Depth
61%
39%
For tanners who actively avoid bronzers because of transfer concerns — staining sheets, towels, or tanning bed surfaces — the Black Cherry Crush offers a clean alternative that still contributes meaningfully to natural color development over time. This is the right trade-off for a specific type of experienced, bronzer-averse tanner.
The absence of any bronzer or DHA is the single biggest factor limiting this product's appeal to a broader audience. Buyers accustomed to formulas with a cosmetic color boost will find post-session results underwhelming and may feel the product did not justify its cost until they understand how cumulative accelerators work.
Skin Compatibility
82%
18%
The mineral oil-free formula lowers the barrier for a wide range of skin types, including those prone to breakouts or congestion after heated bed sessions. Tanners with combination and sensitive skin report fewer post-session skin complaints compared to formulas that rely on mineral oil as a base ingredient.
Very dry skin types often find the formula does not provide enough barrier support during prolonged UV exposure, leading to tightness or flaking in the days following a session. A small subset of users with highly reactive skin report mild irritation, likely tied to the fragrance component rather than the base formula.
Ease of Application
84%
The lotion-oil consistency makes it easy to apply evenly across large body areas without the product dragging or balling up on skin — a common frustration with thicker cream-based tanners. A modest amount goes a reasonably long way, letting users coat their full body without overusing the bottle.
Some users note that the oilier aspects of the formula leave hands feeling slick after application, requiring a quick rinse before touching tanning bed controls or surfaces. This is a minor inconvenience but comes up consistently enough in feedback to be worth flagging for new buyers.
Formula Cleanliness
85%
Skipping mineral oil is a genuine formulation choice that experienced tanners recognize and appreciate, particularly those who have dealt with pore congestion or post-session breakouts in the past. The cleaner ingredient approach positions this cherry tanning lotion as a more considered option than many standard accelerators at a similar price.
The full ingredient list is not widely promoted, making it difficult for highly ingredient-conscious buyers to verify every component beyond the mineral oil-free claim. Those with multiple product sensitivities or stricter clean-beauty standards may want to seek out the complete formula details before committing to regular use.
Scent Longevity
67%
33%
The cherry fragrance is pleasant and distinct during application and throughout the tanning session itself, creating an enjoyable sensory experience in the booth. For many salon-goers, the in-session scent experience is a core part of the ritual, and this lotion delivers it reliably on that front.
Once you leave the salon, the cherry scent fades fairly quickly on skin — within an hour or two for most users — which can feel underwhelming for those expecting a lingering post-tan fragrance. This is a common limitation of rinse-off lotion formulas in this product category.
Indoor Tanning Performance
78%
22%
Within the controlled UV environment it is designed for, this Fiesta Sun accelerator performs reliably as a preparation and enhancement product. Experienced bed tanners report that sessions feel more productive, with color building more consistently over a regimen compared to going in without any lotion at all.
The formula's effectiveness is inherently tied to UV equipment quality and the user's existing skin condition — results in an older or lower-intensity bed can feel negligible. Users who do not tan frequently enough to build cumulative color may find the investment in an accelerator does not pay off noticeably.
Repeat Purchase Rate
86%
The repeat buyer rate for this Fiesta Sun accelerator is notably strong within its category — a clear signal that the overall experience meets expectations consistently. Loyal buyers cite the reliable scent, comfortable skin feel, and accessible price as the combination that makes repurchasing a straightforward, low-hesitation decision.
Not all repeat buyers return specifically for the tan results — some continue purchasing primarily for the scent and skin comfort, suggesting the accelerator function alone may not be the dominant loyalty driver. Buyers who try it purely for tan depth improvement may not convert to repeat customers at the same rate.
Packaging & Portability
79%
21%
The slim bottle profile fits easily into a tanning bag or gym locker without taking up much space, and the compact dimensions make it practical for travel or vacations where indoor tanning is part of the plan. The form factor is functional and does not feel like an afterthought at this price tier.
The dispensing mechanism on some bottles has drawn criticism for dripping or dispensing product unevenly, which can lead to waste and make controlled application harder than it should be. The opaque bottle also provides no indication of how much product remains, making it easy to run out unexpectedly.

Suitable for:

Fiesta Sun Black Cherry Crush Tanning Lotion is built for the indoor tanner who already knows what they are doing — someone with an established base who wants to push their color deeper without introducing bronzer pigments or DHA into the equation. If you visit a tanning salon regularly and prefer a clean, natural-looking result over the instant gratification of a bronzer, this Fiesta Sun accelerator fits that mindset well. Skincare-conscious tanners who actively avoid mineral oil will appreciate that the formula skips it entirely, reducing the risk of clogged pores after heated bed sessions. The mid-range price makes it a practical everyday option rather than a special-occasion splurge, especially for frequent users who burn through lotion quickly. Anyone who values a distinct, cherry-scented session experience — and wants something that genuinely stands apart from the generic tropical fragrances flooding this category — will find this cherry tanning lotion a welcome and consistent choice.

Not suitable for:

Anyone expecting the Fiesta Sun Black Cherry Crush Tanning Lotion to deliver instant visible color after a session will likely walk away disappointed — there is no bronzer and no DHA here, so the darkening effect is entirely UV-dependent and gradual. If you are brand new to tanning and still working on building a base, a pure accelerator is not the most efficient starting point; beginner-friendly formulas with added bronzers tend to show faster early results that keep motivation high. Outdoor tanners should look elsewhere entirely, since this lotion contains zero sun protection and is formulated specifically for controlled indoor UV environments. People with very dry skin who rely on their tanning lotion to do the heavy lifting on moisture may find the hydration adequate but not intensive enough on its own. Finally, anyone with fragrance sensitivity should be aware that the cherry scent is noticeable — pleasant to most, but present enough to be a genuine consideration.

Specifications

  • Brand: Manufactured by HealthMarket and sold under the Fiesta Sun brand, a label positioned in the budget-to-mid-range sun care segment.
  • Model Number: The item model number is FS580, which can be used to verify authenticity and match replacement purchases.
  • Product Form: Formulated as a lotion-oil hybrid, combining the spreadability of a lotion with the skin-coating properties of a light oil base.
  • Net Weight: Each bottle contains 9.17 oz of product, a standard size for indoor tanning lotions in this category.
  • Dimensions: The bottle measures 2.76 x 1.57 x 6.89 inches, making it compact enough to fit in a tanning bag or gym locker without issue.
  • Primary Function: Classified as a dark tanning accelerator, designed to support the skin's melanin response during UV exposure to promote deeper color development.
  • Sun Protection: Contains no SPF or UV-blocking agents of any kind; this product accelerates tanning and must never be used as a substitute for sunscreen.
  • Bronzer Content: Contains no added bronzers or DHA, meaning there is no immediate cosmetic color deposited on the skin during or after application.
  • Fragrance: Scented with a sweet cherry fragrance that is noticeable during application and gradually fades to a mild scent on skin post-session.
  • Mineral Oil: Explicitly formulated without mineral oil, which may reduce the likelihood of pore congestion during heated indoor tanning sessions.
  • Primary Benefit: Provides a moisturizing effect that helps keep skin comfortable and hydrated during and after UV exposure sessions.
  • Skin Compatibility: Labeled as suitable for all skin types, though individual responses may vary, particularly for very dry or very oily skin.
  • Intended Use: Formulated specifically for use in indoor tanning beds under controlled UV conditions, and is not recommended for outdoor sun exposure.
  • Availability: Currently active and not discontinued by the manufacturer, with stock available through online retail channels.
  • Category Rank: Holds a ranking of approximately #392 in Tanning Oils and Lotions, indicating a recognized mid-tier presence in a competitive category.

Related Reviews

Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100x & Insanely Black 60x Tanning Lotion Duo 13.5oz
Millennium Tanning Solid Black 100x & Insanely Black 60x Tanning Lotion Duo 13.5oz
83%
89%
Effectiveness & Results
70%
Tingle Effect Intensity
88%
Skin Hydration
85%
Application & Usability
80%
Fragrance
More
Elegant Sun Sun Proverbs 10oz Tanning Lotion
Elegant Sun Sun Proverbs 10oz Tanning Lotion
77%
72%
Tanning Effectiveness
91%
Bronzer-Free Performance
86%
Texture & Absorption
78%
Skin Hydration
83%
Fragrance
More
Sun Laboratories Tan Overnight Self-Tanning Lotion 8oz
Sun Laboratories Tan Overnight Self-Tanning Lotion 8oz
74%
78%
Color Payoff
84%
Skin Feel & Moisture
81%
Ease of Application
52%
Scent
73%
Streak-Free Results
More
Millennium Once You Go Black Bronzer 13.5oz
Millennium Once You Go Black Bronzer 13.5oz
74%
88%
Tanning Effectiveness
71%
Texture & Absorption
58%
Bronzer Transfer & Staining
74%
Fragrance
81%
Odor Elimination
More
Tanning Paradise 365 Shades of Black Lotion
Tanning Paradise 365 Shades of Black Lotion
71%
86%
Color Payoff
79%
Anti-Orange Performance
88%
Texture & Absorption
83%
Scent
61%
Skin Firming & Toning
More
Millennium Tanning Black Storm 60x Tanning Lotion 13.5oz
Millennium Tanning Black Storm 60x Tanning Lotion 13.5oz
85%
91%
Effectiveness of Tanning Results
88%
Smooth, Streak-Free Application
86%
Long-Lasting Tan
85%
Suitability for Dry Skin
87%
Fast Results
More
Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Lotion 13.5oz
Tanning Paradise Black Coconut Love Lotion 13.5oz
73%
78%
Tanning Effectiveness
88%
Skin Hydration
83%
Tattoo Protection
86%
Scent Experience
81%
Texture & Absorption
More
Millennium Tanning Solid Black Tanning Lotion 13.5oz
Millennium Tanning Solid Black Tanning Lotion 13.5oz
76%
83%
Bronzing Performance
88%
Texture & Absorption
84%
Scent Experience
71%
Hydration & Moisture
81%
Tattoo Protection
More
Millennium Tanning Solid Black 200X Lotion 13.5oz
Millennium Tanning Solid Black 200X Lotion 13.5oz
74%
88%
Color Payoff
71%
Texture & Absorption
58%
Scent
79%
Tattoo Fade Defense
82%
Bronzer Longevity
More
Tan Asz U Beach Black Rum Lotion
Tan Asz U Beach Black Rum Lotion
80%
91%
Bronzing Performance
84%
Skin Hydration
78%
Texture & Absorption
82%
Scent Experience
76%
Color Longevity
More

FAQ

No — the Fiesta Sun Black Cherry Crush Tanning Lotion contains absolutely no SPF or UV-blocking ingredients. It is a tanning accelerator, meaning it is designed to work with UV exposure, not protect against it. If you ever find yourself using this product near natural sunlight, apply a separate broad-spectrum sunscreen. Ideally, keep this one reserved for controlled indoor tanning sessions only.

Probably not dramatically, at least not right away. This Fiesta Sun accelerator contains no bronzers or DHA, so there is no instant cosmetic color deposited on your skin. The color it helps develop comes from your skin's own melanin response to UV light, which builds gradually over multiple sessions. If you need visible results after a single session, a formula with a bronzer would be a better fit.

A good accelerator helps prep and support the skin so it responds more efficiently to UV exposure — keeping it moisturized reduces flaking and uneven fading, while certain ingredients in these formulas are believed to help stimulate melanin activity. It is not a dramatic transformation, but regular tanners typically find that using a lotion consistently leads to richer, longer-lasting color compared to going in dry.

It can be used by beginners, but it is not the most beginner-optimized product out there. People building a base from scratch often benefit more from formulas that include a bronzer, since the visible early color helps track progress and stays motivating. This cherry tanning lotion really shines once you already have some color established and want to push it deeper.

The cherry fragrance is definitely present and sweet — it is not a background hint. Most users describe it as pleasant rather than overpowering, and it tends to be most noticeable during application and the first few minutes of your session. It fades on the skin afterward. That said, if you are sensitive to fruity or synthetic fragrances, it is something to factor in before committing to a full bottle.

The lotion-oil texture does take a few minutes to absorb fully, but it is not considered heavy or excessively slick by most who use it regularly. Transfer onto tanning surfaces is minimal once the product has had a moment to sink in. Oilier skin types may want to give it a little extra time before lying down, just to let it settle.

It is generally not recommended to use body tanning lotions on facial skin. Facial skin tends to be more delicate, and the pore structure is finer — body-formulated products can be too occlusive or cause breakouts when applied to the face. If you want to tan your face during a session, look for a product specifically formulated and labeled for facial use.

For some people, it genuinely matters. Mineral oil creates a barrier on the skin that can feel heavy and trap debris in pores — this is especially worth avoiding in a hot tanning bed environment where pores open up. The Black Cherry Crush skipping mineral oil means the formula is lighter on skin and less likely to cause congestion. Whether you will personally notice the difference depends on your skin type and sensitivity.

At 9.17 oz, the bottle gives a solid number of sessions if you apply a moderate, even layer to the areas being tanned. For someone tanning two to three times per week with average coverage, it should last anywhere from several weeks to a couple of months. Heavy applicators or those covering a large body surface area will go through it faster and may want to buy in multiples.

Salon-branded or exclusive lotions often carry a significant retail markup for the same or similar core functionality. The Black Cherry Crush delivers on the basics — a moisturizing accelerator with a pleasing scent and a cleaner formula that skips mineral oil — without the inflated price tag. It will not outperform a premium-tier salon formula loaded with specialized bronzers or skin-conditioning actives, but for tanners who just want a reliable everyday accelerator, it competes well for the price.