How To Tan Well In A Tanning Bed
Overview
A tanning bed provides sun seekers an easy way to achieve a glowing brown tan without lying outside in the sun's rays. There are several benefits to tanning well in a tanning bed. Achieving a tan in a short amount of time, privacy and ease of use makes tanning beds popular among those looking to change their appearance. Tanning well in a tanning bed involves following a few simple steps so that a good base tan is generated as well as a long lasting tan that lasts for several days and weeks.
Step 1
Begin at home to exfoliate the skin in the shower. This is important because it removes oils and dead skin from the body. Using a washcloth or loofah sponge, apply a generous amount of exfoliate soap to the end of the cloth or sponge. Begin to work up a good lather and scrub firmly on the skin. Rinse thoroughly. Do not apply any lotion or perfume to the skin.
Step 2
Pull hair back if necessary. Use a ponytail hair tie to draw back long hair. Use bobby pins or a headband to keep hair off the hairline and back of the neck.
Step 3
Prepare to tan by undressing in the booth or tanning room. Strip down to nothing or to bikini tops and bottoms. Begin to apply the lotion. Put a moderate to thick layer on all parts of the body. Rub in completely. Allow to absorb and dry.
Step 4
Set up the bed. Make sure it has been sterilized with Lucasol Tanning bed cleaner or another sterilizing solution. Make sure the pillow is set up at the head area for adequate support. Place sunnies or eye cones on eyes for UV protection. Turn the tanning bed unit on.
Step 5
Proceed to tan. Lay on the bed either face down (remove pillow or readjust) or on the back. Bring the top of the bed down as close as 6 inches from the top of the body. Spread legs slightly and keep arms above the head. Allow all skin areas to receive exposure. Rotate halfway through if desired to prevent white lines below the buttocks. Keep neck stretched out to prevent white lines. Tan for up to 30 minutes on a standard bed (for experienced tanners with an established tan) less time is required (5 to 10 minutes for sensitive or very pale skin) for those just beginning to tan.
Step 6
End tanning session when timer goes off and bulbs go out. Wipe sweat and lotion from face and body with washcloth and hand towel if desired.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid using tanning lotions that contain mineral oil---they may prevent a tan from forming. Lotions that have hot factors or tingles can bring a flushed feel to the skin; this may be uncomfortable for some people. Always use a tanning bed with a timer. Repeat the tanning process three times a week for 4 to 6 weeks for a dark tan.
- Never stay in longer than 15 minutes for the first 5 sessions---sunburn could occur. Do not use a tanning bed if any of the following applies---recently diagnosed with skin cancer, open wounds, naturally white or red hair, taking antibiotics or medication sensitive to UV rays (photo-sensitivity) Never use baby oil or mineral oil in a tanning bed---it can harm the surface of the glass.
Things You'll Need
- Loofah sponge or washcloth Exfoliating soap Bobby pins Hair ties or ponytail ties Headband Tanning lotion with minimal or no SPF Eye protection such as sunnies, goggles or eye cones Washcloth and hand towel Tanning pillow Bikini or underwear (optional)
About this Author
Julie Boehlke is a seasoned copywriter and content creator based in the great lakes state. Aside of traveling and concocting new wine recipes, she enjoys writing on a wide genre of topics such as green living, gardening, world travel, golf, outdoors, camping, winemaking, gourmet cooking, hiking, backpacking, outdoor survival and interior decorating. Her diverse medical background and experience allows her to share her expertise in end of life care, disease management and behavioral therapy.
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