How to Tan Safely in a Tanning Bed

Overview

Tanning is a desirable look by many who want to feel more youthful and improve their overall appearance. UVA and UVB are forms of ultraviolet radiation used in tanning beds to create a tan. The UVA rays work to penetrate lower layers of skin and trigger the melanocytes to create melanin---the pigment that turns skin brown. The UVB rays actually burn the epidermis of the skin and cause the body to have a sunburn. Minimal and slow exposure is the only way to safely tan. Using a small amount of SPF at first will assure a gradual tan and less damage.

How to Tan Safely in a Tanning Bed

Step 1

Exfoliate the skin in the shower. Hours before tanning, take a hot shower and use a course washcloth or loofah sponge to remove any dry or dead skin. Dry thoroughly and apply a small amount of tanning lotion or moisturizer.

Step 2

Proceed to clean the tanning bed thoroughly with a tanning disinfectant. Make sure all areas that are exposed to the skin are clean and disinfected. Bring along disinfectant wipes such as Barbicide wipes or Clorox clean up wipes to clean the bed. Be sure to completely wipe and clean the tanning pillow. Allow to dry completely.

Step 3

Change into a bikini or bikini bottom. Keeping a bikini bottom on will prevent any type of cross-contamination of infection or a skin related disease. Although extremely rare, pubic lice or head lice could be caught from using a public tanning bed if a louse has left its original host. Keeping the bikini area covered up and hair pulled into a pony tail or bun with a clip is a personal preference.

Step 4

Apply lotion with a small amount of SPF---this will still allow the body to tan and feel the effects from the lamps but without full penetration into the skin. Set a personal timer to assure the proper length of time for the visit---5 to 10 minutes for beginners, three times a week and 10 to 25 minutes three to four times per week for advanced tanners, to prevent over exposure.

Step 5

Place sunnies or disposable eyewear directly over eyes and start the tanning bed. Lay down to begin tanning. Avoid bringing the bed directly on top of skin---instead allow up to six to 12 inches between the face and the top of the bed (if lying on the back) Allow all areas to be exposed by raising arms above the head and crossed behind the neck. If desired, apply 40 or higher SPF to sensitive areas such as scars, moles or other areas in which sun exposure is unwanted.

Step 6

Remove or discard sun protection. Use a clean washcloth to wipe off excess sweat and lotion. Apply a generous amount of moisturizer to the entire exposed body area. Allow to dry and then begin dressing.