Can you still get tan in a tanning bed without lotion?

Author: Cordell Ullrich  |  Last update: Sunday, November 9, 2025

You may find you don't tan as efficiently compared to if you used a lotion or accelerator. Tanning lotions are designed to moisturise your skin, enhance your tan and make you smell nice, but they are not compulsory and you can still use a tanning bed without lotions or creams.

Are tanning beds effective without lotion?

Yes, you can still tan without using tanning lotion or spray. Tanning occurs when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds, which stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.

What happens if I don't use tanning lotion in a tanning bed?

Bear in mind that dry skin reflects UV light, so if you are not using an indoor tanning lotion, you can be wasting up to 50% of your tanning session! We want you to start achieving that color the moment your session starts!

What can I use instead of tanning lotion in a tanning bed?

There are a few things you can use in place of tanning lotion, including body butters, and aloe vera gel.

Is it better to tan with tanning lotion or without?

Yes, you can still tan without using tanning lotion or spray. Tanning occurs when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds, which stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.

Can You Tan Without Tanning Lotion?

What happens if you don't moisturize before tanning?

Moisturizing creates a smooth, hydrated base that helps your self-tanner glide on evenly. Without it, dry areas of your body—like elbows, knees, and ankles—soak up more product, leaving you with darker, blotchy areas.

How to get a darker tan on sunbeds?

How To Tan Quicker On Sunbeds
  1. Prepare Your Skin. Exfoliate Before Your Session. ...
  2. Adjust Your Tanning Time. Start with a Shorter Session. ...
  3. Use The Sunbed Correctly. Rotate Your Position. ...
  4. Maintain A Healthy Diet. Get The Right Nutrients. ...
  5. Avoid Things With Negative Effects. Remove Makeup and Cosmetics.

What not to do after tanning bed?

Avoid using harsh or fragranced products immediately after tanning, as they may further irritate the skin.

How to get an even tan in a tanning bed?

To achieve the best and most even tan, it's crucial to rotate between using lay-down and stand-up beds. This rotation leverages the strengths of both types of beds, minimizing the drawbacks of each. By alternating your sessions between these two types of beds, you can enjoy a consistently even and beautiful tan.

Do you need tanning lotion for sunbed?

During the tanning session, we perspire and this can dry the skin. Dry skin reflects light and as dry skin cells shed more frequently, if a shallow tan is developed, it does not last. Using a UV specific sunbed lotion during your session replaces moisture lost to prevent the skin drying out.

Why won't my skin tan in a tanning bed?

Dry skin doesn't tan well. Keep your skin moisturized daily to ensure a more even tan. You should use a lightweight, non-greasy lotion leading up to your tanning session, and avoid products with oils or heavy fragrances that might interfere with tanning products or sunscreen.

How to start tanning bed when pale?

Tanning Bed Tips for Pale Skin

To prevent burning, it's essential to start with a lower-level bed and gradually increase the level as your skin becomes more accustomed to UV rays. Additionally, you should limit your tanning sessions to shorter lengths, such as 3 minutes, and work your way up to longer sessions.

What happens if you go on a sunbed without cream?

By using a tanning lotion, the tanning process is sped up, meaning you save both time and money on tanning sessions to get the same (or even better) results. Dry skin reflects light, meaning that your tan will be less effective and will need to spend more time tanning to get the same results.

What foods make you more tanned?

Papaya: Like carrots, orange fruits and vegetables, such as papaya, help to enhance your tan naturally thanks to its high beta-carotene levels. Melon: This refreshing fruit, rich in antioxidants and beta-carotenes will help you to keep your golden skin tone.

How long does it take to start tanning without lotion?

The reason it is so important to use a lotion in the tanning bed, is naturally it takes 7-10 minutes for a tan to begin the activation process – but with lotion, that activation process takes 30 seconds, which in turn will help get you better results in the beds!

Are you supposed to flip over in a tanning bed?

No, you don't need to flip over in a tanning bed. In fact, many people tan stomach-down because it's more comfortable that way. However, if you want an evenly distributed tan, then you should flip over halfway through your session so that both sides of your body get equal exposure to the UV rays.

How many sunbeds a week are safe?

Moderate tanning of 2-3 sessions a week is OK for everyone else but ensure you rest the skin for a minimum of 24 hours between each session and at least 48 hours for skin type 2. The European Standard advises not to exceed 60 sessions per annum.

What happens if you don't shower after tanning bed?

After a sunbed session, melanin production continues for several hours. Therefore, waiting before showering allows your skin to fully absorb the UV rays and develop a deeper tan. This patience ensures that your tan will be richer and longer-lasting.

How to tan faster in a tanning bed?

Master Tanning 101: How To Take Your Tanning To The Next Level
  1. Shower and Exfoliate.
  2. Avoid lotions, deodorant, makeup or oil based based products and perfume.
  3. Shave 24 hours before appointment.
  4. Wear loose-fitting clothing.
  5. Avoid water or excessive sweating for 4-6 hours.

Do you tan better with or without lotion?

Designer Skin lotions will help to replenish any moisture that has been depleted during the tanning session, thereby improving your results. Not only will you get a darker tan, you will tan more quickly and it will last longer.

How many sunbeds to get a tan?

The time it takes to develop a tan from sunbeds varies widely among individuals. Generally, you might start noticing results after 3-5 sessions, with a more noticeable tan developing within 1-2 weeks of regular use.

Do you need lotion for tanning bed?

You can lose up to 50% of your tan if you aren't using quality lotion. The lotion helps your skin absorb the UV rays and will help you get the most out of your tanning session.

What is 10 minutes on a sunbed equivalent to?

This means that to achieve the same results as being in the sun, you won't need to be in the sunbed for nearly as long. A good example of just how different the results are taking into account that ten minutes in a sunbed compares to about 2 hours in direct sunlight.

How to avoid bunny tail in tanning bed?

☀️Tanning Tip Tuesday☀️ How to avoid the “bunny tail” or white spots on lower back or under your arms or sides: ✅ when using a lay down bed always reposition your body every few minutes to achieve an even tan. Switch from side to side and rest your arms behind your head .

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