What does the term "tanning accelerator" refer to?

The term "tanning accelerator" refers to products designed to speed up the tanning process. These products typically contain ingredients that stimulate the skin's natural tanning mechanisms, enabling individuals to achieve a darker tan more quickly than they would through sun exposure or tanning beds alone. Tanning accelerators often focus on enhancing the production of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for skin color. By applying these products, users can shorten the time needed to achieve the desired tan, making them popular among those looking to enhance their sunbathing or tanning experiences.

In contrast, products that slow down the tanning process or remove a tan are aimed at individuals who seek to avoid pigmentation or wish to lighten their skin tone after tanning. Therefore, they do not serve the same purpose as tanning accelerators.