Do you tan faster in a tanning bed with or without lotion?

Author: Aylin Rogahn  |  Last update: Saturday, October 11, 2025

Indoor tanning lotions protect and nourish your skin for a better and longer lasting tan. Not only will using them make you reach a glowing color faster and easier, but they will also improve your skin's health overall.

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.

Does tanning bed lotion make you tan faster?

Tanning lotions often contain ingredients like tyrosine or bronzers that activate this process, meaning you can cut down on tanning sessions while still achieving a darker result. Not only does it speed up the process, but it also plays a vital role in keeping your skin hydrated.

How to tan faster in a tanning bed?

How To Tan Quicker On Sunbeds
  1. Choose the Right Sunbed. Reap the Benefits of High-Pressure Beds. ...
  2. Prepare Your Skin. Exfoliate Before Your Session. ...
  3. Use a Tan Accelerator. Apply a Quality Tan Accelerator. ...
  4. Adjust Your Tanning Time. ...
  5. Use The Sunbed Correctly. ...
  6. Maintain A Healthy Diet. ...
  7. Avoid Things With Negative Effects.

Do you get darker in a tanning bed without lotion?

Yes, there is a limit on how dark anyone can get, even with tanning beds. Both the sun and tanning beds give you UV rays, and tanning lotions don't really speed up the process. As another comment has mentioned, it depends on the amount of melanin in your skin. That is inborn and can't be changed.

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

Do you tan better on 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.

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.

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.

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 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 .

Is it necessary to use lotion in a tanning bed?

The Short Answer is YES!!

It can be easy to assume that a tanning lotion is not necessary when using a sunbed. You might even not like taking the time to apply it or how it feels, but it all comes down to keeping your skin protected, in a healthy condition and to the kind of results you want to achieve.

How to maximize tanning bed results?

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 faster without tanning lotion?

While tanning beds and natural sunlight can both induce tanning, using lotion can significantly enhance the process and protect your skin. Dry skin reflects UV light, which can inhibit the tanning process and increase the risk of skin damage.

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.

Do you tan better when you're 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.

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.

Does showering after tanning bed affect your tan?

Many sunbed users wonder if it's okay to shower after using a sunbed. The answer is yes – you can definitely shower after using a sunbed. In fact, showering can actually help to prolong your tan. When you shower, the water helps to hydrate your skin, which can prevent your tan from fading too quickly.

How long does it take to get tan in a tanning bed?

It depends on many factors, including skin type, level of current tan, the tanning bed and skin care products you use. Typically, you'll see results after 3-5 sessions.

How to tan quicker on sunbeds?

Summary. In summary, the best ways to get a faster tan using sunbeds are to start with a base tan, use a high-pressure sunbed, consider using a tanning accelerator, follow the recommended exposure time, stay hydrated, and use moisturizer. By following these tips and taking precautions to protect your skin.

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.

What's the longest you can tan in a tanning bed?

Recommended Frequency of Tanning Bed Use

Each session should be brief, around 3-10 minutes, depending on your skin type. After the initial week, if your skin is responding well (no burns or excessive redness), you can gradually increase your sessions to three to four times per week.

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.

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.

What is the best tan accelerator?

Discover our top picks of tan accelerators will give you that healthy, bronzed goddess glow and keep your skin hydrated as well.
  • The Fox Tan Rapid Elixir.
  • Gatineau Tan Accelerating Lotion.
  • Piz Buin Tan and Protect Spray SPF 30.
  • Lancaster Golden Tan Maximizer After Sun Oil.

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