Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion

Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion — image 1
Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion — image 2
Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion — image 3
Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion — image 4
Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion — image 5
85%
93%
Skin Hydration
91%
Texture & Absorption
76%
Tan Enhancement
84%
Value for Money
67%
Scent
89%
Ingredient Quality
88%
Skin Type Compatibility
78%
Color Longevity
82%
Packaging & Portability
87%
Non-Greasy Performance
92%
Repeat Purchase Rate
86%
Alcohol-Free Formulation
90%
Brand Trustworthiness
More

Overview

The Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion is Hempz's take on a nourishing tan enhancer — built around their signature hemp seed oil and aimed at people who want better color without sacrificing skin health. Worth clarifying upfront: this is not a self-tanner. It requires UV exposure — whether from a tanning bed or natural sunlight — to actually develop color. That dual compatibility with both indoor and outdoor tanning is something many buyers overlook when shopping. At 13.5 fl oz, the bottle lasts across multiple sessions, and the alcohol-free formula makes it a thoughtful pick for anyone who has dealt with dry, tight skin after using cheaper alternatives. Hempz has built a loyal following in the tanning space, and this lotion reflects that reputation.

Features & Benefits

The formula does two things at once, and that balance is what sets this hemp-based tanner apart from basic accelerators. The dark tan enhancer complex works by helping UV light interact more effectively with skin, pushing results toward deeper, longer-lasting color over time. Meanwhile, pure hemp seed oil pulls double duty — it conditions skin during the tanning process, leaving it noticeably softer afterward rather than stripped and dry. Yangu oil adds a secondary layer of care, delivering antioxidants and fatty acids that support firmer, better-hydrated skin with continued use. The texture is lightweight and fast-absorbing — no greasy residue, no white cast — and it performs consistently across all common skin types without any adjustment needed.

Best For

This tanning lotion hits its stride with regular tanning bed users — people who go multiple times a week and need something that will not leave their skin feeling tight or depleted session after session. It also translates well to beach and outdoor use, making it a flexible option if your routine mixes both. Those with dry skin will likely notice the biggest difference, since the moisture benefits are real and consistent rather than just a marketing claim. If you prefer plant-based skincare ingredients and care about what goes on your skin while you tan, this hemp-based tanner fits naturally. It is less ideal for anyone chasing extreme bronzing results fast — it builds color gradually and rewards consistent, regular use.

User Feedback

With well over 125,000 ratings and a 4.7-star average, the Hempz Hydromax has earned a level of buyer trust that is hard to dismiss. The most consistent praise centers on post-session skin softness — people repeatedly mention that skin feels genuinely conditioned rather than dried out, which distinguishes it from competing products at a similar price point. Repeat buyers are common, and many note that hydration lingers well beyond the session itself. That said, a portion of reviewers find the tan intensity more subtle than expected, particularly those accustomed to high-bronzer formulas. Scent divides opinions too — some find it pleasant and light, others prefer something more neutral. Overall, it earns strong loyalty among tanning regulars who prioritize skin feel alongside color results.

#Tanning Oils & Lotions
#Sunscreens & Tanning Products
#Skin Care
#Beauty & Personal Care

Pros

  • Skin feels noticeably softer and more conditioned after each session, not stripped or dry.
  • Hemp seed oil and yangu oil provide genuine hydration that lingers well beyond the tanning session itself.
  • The lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky or oily residue on skin.
  • Works effectively for both tanning bed sessions and outdoor sun exposure, making it genuinely versatile.
  • Alcohol-free formula makes it a reliable choice for people prone to post-tan dryness or irritation.
  • Compatible with all common skin types — oily, dry, normal, and combination — without adjustment.
  • Over 125,000 ratings with a 4.7-star average reflects consistent, long-term buyer satisfaction.
  • The 13.5 fl oz bottle offers solid value per session for regular tanners who use it frequently.
  • Plant-based ingredient focus appeals to buyers who care about what they put on their skin.
  • Repeat purchase rate suggests most buyers find it delivers reliable, predictable results over time.

Cons

  • Color development is gradual — buyers expecting deep, fast results after one or two sessions will likely be disappointed.
  • Not a substitute for high-bronzer formulas; the tan intensity is noticeably more subtle by comparison.
  • Scent divides buyers — some find it pleasant, but those sensitive to fragrance may find it unwelcome.
  • Provides no UV protection whatsoever, so it cannot replace or combine with sunscreen in any scenario.
  • Results are heavily dependent on UV exposure quality and duration — the lotion itself does nothing without light.
  • May feel like overkill in terms of bottle size for occasional or seasonal tanners who tan infrequently.
  • Some users report the hydration benefits diminish if they skip consistent application across sessions.
  • The price point is higher than basic accelerators, which may not be justified for casual or infrequent tanners.

Ratings

The scores below for the Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion were generated by our AI engine after processing thousands of verified global buyer reviews, actively filtering out incentivized, spam, and bot-generated feedback to surface honest patterns. Both the genuine strengths and the recurring frustrations are reflected here — nothing has been softened to protect the product's image. If a category scored low, real buyers told us why.

Skin Hydration
93%
This is the category where the Hempz Hydromax consistently earns its strongest praise. Buyers with dry and combination skin in particular report that their skin feels genuinely moisturized after a session — not just temporarily coated. The hemp seed oil and yangu oil combination appears to deliver real, lasting softness that extends well beyond the tanning session itself.
A small segment of users with very oily skin found the hydration level excessive for their skin type, noting that the lotion felt richer than they needed. Those who prefer a purely minimal, water-light base before tanning occasionally found the moisturizing effect more than they bargained for.
Texture & Absorption
91%
The lightweight, lotion-based formula spreads evenly and absorbs without leaving a greasy or sticky film behind — something regular tanning bed users especially appreciate since residue can interfere with session comfort. Most buyers report that it feels clean on the skin within minutes of application, which makes pre-session prep straightforward.
A handful of reviewers noted that in humid conditions or when applied in larger amounts, the absorption time felt slightly longer than expected. It is not a significant issue for most, but buyers who apply generously and get into the tanning bed quickly may notice a slight initial tackiness.
Tan Enhancement
76%
24%
For users with established tanning routines, the Hempz Hydromax does visibly deepen color over multiple consistent sessions. Regular tanning bed users report a richer, darker result compared to going in without any lotion, and beach tanners note that color appears more even and longer-lasting when this lotion is part of their pre-tan prep.
This is the most polarizing category. Buyers expecting dramatic bronzing from their first or second session are frequently disappointed — the color payoff is gradual and subtle compared to high-bronzer or tingle-based competitors. It is a tan enhancer in the truest sense, which means impatient buyers or those chasing extreme results will likely find it underwhelming.
Value for Money
84%
At 13.5 fl oz, the bottle holds enough product for a solid stretch of regular sessions, which helps justify the mid-range price point over time. Buyers who calculate cost per session tend to view it positively, especially compared to smaller bottles from competing brands that run out faster at similar or higher prices.
Occasional tanners or first-time buyers may find the price harder to justify given the gradual color results. If you are not tanning consistently enough to go through the bottle at a reasonable pace, the cost-per-use calculation shifts unfavorably compared to cheaper, simpler accelerator options.
Scent
67%
33%
Many buyers describe the scent as pleasant and faintly herbal, consistent with the brand's hemp-based identity. It is generally light enough that it does not linger on clothing or fill a tanning room, and the majority of reviewers do not flag it as a concern at all in their feedback.
Scent is one of the more divisive aspects of this tanning lotion. A consistent minority of reviewers find the fragrance too pronounced or simply not to their taste, and those with fragrance sensitivities note it is not as neutral as they would prefer. There is no fragrance-free version available for buyers who need one.
Ingredient Quality
89%
The use of 100% pure natural hemp seed oil alongside yangu oil — a less common but genuinely functional ingredient rich in antioxidants and fatty acids — signals a formulation that goes beyond surface-level marketing. Buyers who research ingredients before purchasing consistently rate this positively and cite it as a reason for repeat purchases.
While the hero ingredients are strong, some ingredient-conscious buyers note the full ingredient list includes a range of additional compounds that are less transparently communicated in the product description. For buyers who scrutinize full INCI labels, it may not be as clean a formulation as the front-of-bottle messaging implies.
Skin Type Compatibility
88%
Dry and combination skin users are the clearest beneficiaries, but the formula genuinely holds up across normal and even oily skin types without causing breakouts or congestion. This broad compatibility is one of the reasons the product has maintained such a high review volume across a diverse buyer base.
Buyers with particularly oily skin occasionally report that the moisturizing base feels heavier than their skin needs, especially in warmer months or humid environments. It is workable, but oily-skin buyers may need to use a lighter application than the average user to avoid a slightly overloaded feel.
Color Longevity
78%
22%
When used consistently as part of a regular tanning routine, buyers report that the color developed with this hemp-based tanner fades more gradually and evenly compared to sessions without a lotion. The hydrating base is thought to play a role here — well-moisturized skin tends to hold color longer, and many repeat buyers cite this as a key reason they keep coming back.
Results depend heavily on how frequently you tan and how well you maintain skin hydration between sessions. Buyers who tan sporadically or skip moisturizing on off days often report that color longevity is no better than what they would get without the lotion, suggesting the benefit compounds over time rather than delivering a single-session payoff.
Packaging & Portability
82%
18%
The slim 4 x 2 x 7 inch bottle fits easily into a gym bag, locker, or beach tote without taking up significant space. The form factor is practical for the intended use case — something you grab and toss in a bag on the way to a tanning salon or the beach.
A few buyers mention that the pump or cap design can become difficult to use cleanly toward the end of the bottle, making it harder to dispense the remaining product without waste. The bottle is also not travel-size compliant if that is a factor for flying with it.
Non-Greasy Performance
87%
Unlike a lot of oil-heavy tanning products, this lotion does not leave that uncomfortable, slippery residue that can make lying on a tanning bed uncomfortable or cause issues with clothing after outdoor use. Buyers frequently highlight this as a meaningful practical advantage over competing products they have tried.
While the formula is non-greasy for most users under normal conditions, a few reviewers who applied it heavily to very dry skin noted it took slightly longer to settle into a clean, matte feel. This is mostly an application amount issue rather than a formulation flaw, but worth noting for those who tend to layer on tanning products generously.
Repeat Purchase Rate
92%
The sheer volume of reviews — well over 125,000 — combined with strong average ratings points to an unusually high retention rate for a tanning product. Buyers frequently mention in their reviews that they have been repurchasing for years, which is one of the most reliable signals of genuine product satisfaction in any category.
A small portion of long-term buyers report that the formula or scent appears to have changed slightly over time compared to earlier versions, which has prompted some to switch to other Hempz products or competitors. Consistency across production batches is a low-level but recurring concern in the review data.
Alcohol-Free Formulation
86%
For buyers who have experienced the stinging, drying effect of alcohol-based tanning lotions — particularly on freshly shaved or sensitive skin — the alcohol-free formula is a genuine selling point that gets called out positively in reviews with notable regularity. It makes the lotion usable on more vulnerable skin areas without discomfort.
The absence of alcohol also means the formula feels slightly richer and slower to fully dry down compared to lighter, alcohol-containing alternatives. Buyers who are accustomed to the fast-dry feel of alcohol-based products may notice the difference and need a short adjustment period.
Brand Trustworthiness
90%
Hempz has built a recognizable identity in the hemp-based personal care space over many years, and buyers consistently express trust in the brand's formulations relative to lesser-known competitors. That brand equity plays a real role in purchase decisions, especially for first-time buyers who use it as a quality signal.
Some buyers feel that the premium associated with the Hempz brand name accounts for a portion of the price, and that comparable formulations from less-marketed brands exist at lower price points. Brand loyalty works both ways — it draws buyers in, but also raises expectations that the product does not always meet for color-focused users.

Suitable for:

The Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion is a strong match for anyone who tans regularly — whether that means multiple weekly sessions in a tanning bed or frequent beach and outdoor exposure — and wants a lotion that actively looks after their skin while building color. It works especially well for people with dry or combination skin who have grown frustrated with tanning products that leave skin feeling tight, flaky, or irritated. Because it leans on hemp seed oil and yangu oil as its core conditioning agents, it appeals naturally to buyers who already gravitate toward plant-based personal care. The 13.5 fl oz size suits committed tanners rather than occasional users — you get enough product to run through a solid stretch of sessions without constantly reordering. If your priority is skin that feels genuinely soft and healthy after tanning — not just darker — this hemp-based tanner is well-suited to that goal.

Not suitable for:

The Hempz Hydromax Maximizer 13.5 oz Self-Tanning Lotion is not the right pick for anyone expecting dramatic, fast bronzing results — this is a tan enhancer that builds color gradually with consistent UV exposure, not an instant bronzer or a self-tanner that works without sunlight. If you avoid tanning beds and rarely spend extended time outdoors, the core benefit of this lotion simply does not apply to your routine. People chasing the deep, dark results they have seen from high-bronzer or tingle-based formulas may find the color payoff underwhelming by comparison. The scent, while generally mild, has divided buyers — those with strong fragrance sensitivities should be aware it is not entirely neutral. It is also not a sunscreen and provides no UV protection, so anyone looking for a product that tans and protects simultaneously will need to look elsewhere.

Specifications

  • Brand: Manufactured and distributed by Hempz, a personal care brand specializing in hemp seed oil-based formulas.
  • Volume: Each bottle contains 13.5 fl oz (approximately 399 ml) of lotion, sufficient for multiple tanning sessions.
  • Item Weight: The filled bottle weighs 14.4 oz, making it practical for travel or gym bag storage.
  • Dimensions: The bottle measures 4 x 2 x 7 inches, a slim upright profile that fits most bag pockets and locker shelves.
  • Form: Product is a smooth lotion formulation, neither a gel nor an oil, designed for even spread and quick skin absorption.
  • Key Ingredient: 100% Pure Natural Hemp Seed Oil serves as the primary active moisturizing agent, providing hydration and skin conditioning.
  • Secondary Ingredient: Yangu Oil is included as a supporting ingredient, contributing antioxidants and fatty acids that help maintain skin firmness.
  • Tan Type: This is a tan enhancer and accelerator that deepens UV-induced color; it does not produce color without sun or tanning bed exposure.
  • Skin Compatibility: Formulated to work across combination, dry, normal, and oily skin types without requiring adjustments to application method.
  • Alcohol Content: The formula is completely alcohol-free, which reduces the risk of post-tanning skin dryness or irritation.
  • Finish: Absorbs into skin with a lightweight, non-greasy finish that leaves no visible residue or sticky feel after application.
  • Use Case: Suitable for use in UV tanning beds as well as outdoor beach and sun tanning environments.
  • UPC: Product UPC codes are 794437477619 and 676280026391, used for retail and inventory identification.
  • Discontinuation: As of current product data, this item has not been discontinued by the manufacturer and remains in active production.
  • BSR Ranking: Ranked #83 in the Tanning Oils and Lotions category on Amazon, reflecting strong and sustained sales performance.
  • Item Model: The manufacturer-assigned model number is B01BLPNQWQ, matching the Amazon ASIN for this product listing.

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FAQ

It works for both. The Hempz Hydromax is designed to be used in UV tanning beds as well as under natural sunlight at the beach or outdoors. The tan enhancer responds to UV exposure regardless of the source, so your setting does not limit how you use it.

No — this is a tan enhancer, not a self-tanner. It needs UV light, from a tanning bed or the sun, to actually develop color on your skin. Without that UV exposure, you will get the moisturizing benefits but no color change at all.

A moderate, even layer across all areas you want to tan is the standard approach — similar to how you would apply any body lotion before tanning. You do not need a thick coat; the formula absorbs quickly and a little goes a reasonable distance given the 13.5 fl oz size.

Buyer opinions on the scent vary. Most describe it as mild and pleasant, but a smaller portion of users find it noticeable enough to be a concern. If you are particularly sensitive to fragrance in personal care products, it is worth keeping in mind before purchasing.

Yes, and this is actually one of the product types it suits best. The alcohol-free formula and hemp seed oil base are specifically well-suited to skin that tends toward dryness or sensitivity. Many users with dry skin report it as one of the few tanning lotions that does not leave their skin feeling worse after a session.

Hempz makes several tanning and body care products that share the hemp seed oil base, but this one is specifically targeted at UV color enhancement and deeper tan results rather than general daily moisturizing. If you are comparing within the Hempz line, the key distinction is the dark tan enhancer complex, which is not present in their standard body lotions.

That depends on how much you apply and how many areas you cover, but most regular tanners report getting a solid run of sessions from a single bottle. At 13.5 fl oz, it is sized for multi-session use rather than a one-time application.

No, the texture is specifically designed to be lightweight and absorb without leaving a greasy feel. Most users report that it absorbs quickly and feels clean on the skin before and during a tanning session.

Technically yes, since the hemp seed oil base is genuinely hydrating, but it is formulated primarily as a pre-tan prep product. Using it as an everyday moisturizer would go through the bottle faster and may not offer the same value compared to a dedicated daily lotion.

Yes, it is formulated for tanning bed use. That said, some tanning salon operators have specific rules about what products clients can apply before using their equipment, so it is always worth checking with your salon first if you are unsure of their policy.