Can you tan in a bed with self-tanner on?

Author: Prof. Kenton Zboncak  |  Last update: Sunday, November 30, 2025

We've been asked this question numerous times. In short, yes - you can. Fake tanning adds an additional layer on top of your skin, which actually offers additional protection against UV rays from either natural sunlight or from the use of a sun bed.

Can I use a tanning bed if I have a self tanner on?

However, exposure to UV radiation from sunbeds can alter the appearance of the fake tan, leading to uneven colouration or streaking. Combining UV rays and fake tan ingredients may result in unpredictable outcomes, making achieving a consistent and natural tan challenging.

Can I tan if I have fake tan on?

You absolutely can tan through fake tan. Just make sure to wear spf and reapply, take breaks from the sun, and stay hydrated!

Does fake tan stop you from tanning on sunbeds?

Unlike a real tan, these products do not provide protection against UV rays from the sunbed; however, the layer of fake tan may act as a barrier, hindering the tanning process to a degree. While it will not prevent tanning altogether, using fake tan products can affect your ability to develop a natural tan.

Can I lay in my bed with fake tan on?

Yes, you can sleep in a spray tan. However, it's important to be cautious of the DHA percentage and how long your spray tan artist tells you to wait until you shower.

Are Tanning Beds Safe? | How to Tan Safely | with Dr. Sandra Lee

What is the safest way to tan in a tanning bed?

What are some indoor tanning safety precautions?
  1. Always wear fitted goggles over your eyes.
  2. Use the tanning device only as the maker recommends. ...
  3. Use short exposure times when you start.
  4. Don't use the most intense exposure when you start.
  5. After you have a tan, don't use the device more than once a week.

Is it OK to leave fake tan on overnight?

Optimal Time to Shower After a Fake Tan

Timing your first rinse is key to achieving a flawless, streak-free glow. Wait 4-8 hours before showering to let your tan fully develop, but avoid leaving it on for more than 24 hours.

Do you tan faster in water or laying out?

You don't necessarily tan faster in water or laying out. This is because water reflects UV rays, so you may not be getting as much exposure as you think if you're actually in the pool.

Does fake tanner age you?

"DHA has been shown to cause an increase in free radicals in the skin," says Chere Lucas Anthony, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Boca Raton, Fla. "This can contribute to skin aging as the free radicals break down collagen and elastin in the skin, which leads to wrinkling and skin aging."

Do sunbeds work if you don't tan in the sun?

If you don't tan in the sun, you won't tan more easily on a sunbed. Getting a tan before you go on a sun holiday doesn't build up your resistance to UV rays. Spending too much time in the sun causes skin damage even if you are tanned.

Can you shower with fake tan on?

Your fake tan needs time to develop before your next shower, and we recommend waiting for at least four hours but no more than one day. Remember to pat yourself dry and avoid hot water or harsh shower gels as they will strip your tan and dry out your skin.

What can you 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. These products will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out during your tanning session.

Does sunbed tan develop overnight?

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. However, it's crucial to understand that these are just estimates, and your experience may differ.

Can I get a tan if I have self-tanner on?

The self-tanner does not block UV rays, so you can still get a tan even if you're using a self-tanner. While the self-tanner will make your skin look like you've spent some time in the sun it won't actually block the UV rays from reaching your skin.

Why am I not going brown on a sunbed?

One of the biggest factors that affects tanning is your skin type. Not all skin reacts to UV the same way, and understanding your skin type is key to setting realistic tanning goals. For example, if you are a red head and have very light skin, you'll more likely struggle to tan due to low melanin.

What should you not use in a tanning bed?

Mineral oils

These products have not been designed for tanning. Therefore, they do not contain UV-specific ingredients, or the appropriate skincare needed to care for skin whilst tanning. Mineral oils can magnify UV, making overexposure and burning more likely.

Do dermatologists recommend self-tanner?

“Fake tanning is safer than using sun beds or sunbathing which has the risk of sunburns and premature photo ageing and risk of developing skin cancer in the future,” says Dr Zokaie.

What happens if you don't wash off your self-tanner?

what happens if i forget to shower off the tan? the longer you keep the tan on, the darker it will get. however, some skin types may experience discoloration (looking a bit orange or yellow) if left on too long past around 8 hours. you may also get a streaky tan as you're more likely to rub or wash off some sections.

Does fake tan come off in the pool?

Although the chlorine found in swimming pools can lead to a faster 'fade-off' you can still enjoy a swim and protect your tan. The key is to take quick dips to reduce the time your tan is in contact with the water and to gently pat yourself dry once you've come out of the pool to avoid rubbing off any colour.

How to get the darkest tan in a tanning bed?

How to Achieve a Darker Tan using Sunbeds and Tanning Beds.
  1. Exfoliate your Skin prior to Tanning. ...
  2. Keep your Skin Hydrated and Moisturised. ...
  3. Apply a sunbed cream or tanning accelerator prior tanning.
  4. Remove any kind of makeup and other cosmetic products. ...
  5. Choose foods that accelerate tanning.

Do you tan better, wet or dry?

Moist skin will tan better and more evenly than dry skin. Your skin knows that moisture is important and uses a variety of methods to retain moisture in its surface. Your skin retains water within its natural oils to help them maintain an ordered structure around each skin cell.

Do legs get tan in the pool?

Yes, you can get a tan in a swimming pool if it is outdoors. The UV rays from the sun can penetrate the water and reach your skin, causing a tan. Additionally, water can reflect UV rays, potentially increasing your exposure.

Will sleeping in self-tanner mess it up?

We all perspire while we sleep, and if you go to bed with a fresh sunless tan, where there is skin-on-skin contact it can cause a transfer of tan.

Does showering after tanning in the sun affect your tan?

After tanning, you will produce a little bit of sweat, but that's it. There is no reason to shower right away because water does not affect the tan. This is another myth that has been around for ages. The truth is, showering right after getting a tan will not cause staining of your skin.

What body wash is best for fake tan?

Dhesthetics has 2 recommended body washes to use in the shower to help preserve your tan. Aveevo Daily Moisturizing body wash or Cetaphil Daily Nourishing body wash. All of these body washes have great ingredients in them that will help to preserve not only your tan, but keep your skin healthy.

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