Does SPF work on sunbeds?

Author: Krystel Stanton  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

For example, an SPF 15 sunscreen should be able to protect you 15 times longer than wearing no sunscreen at all. But there are limitations to the protection, and tanning beds are one of those limitations. Tanning beds can emit rays that are estimated to be 10 to 15 times higher than the sun at its most direct exposure.

Should you use SPF on sunbeds?

Tanning beds still emit UVA and UVB rays and that is what damages cells. Tanning salons will tell you, you shouldn't use an SPF because it takes more sessions to get the tan (which is true), but SPF will help mitigated that damage to the cells.

How do I protect my skin in a tanning bed?

Skin Protection Tips
  1. Know Your Skin Type. Different skin types react differently to UV exposure. ...
  2. Use Tanning Lotions. ...
  3. Start Slow. ...
  4. Follow the 24-Hour Rule. ...
  5. Wear Protective Eyewear. ...
  6. Never Tan with Contacts. ...
  7. Close Your Eyes. ...
  8. Follow Salon Guidelines.

Can you still get tan with SPF on?

Yes, you will still get some color using a sunscreen. No sunscreen blocks completely, so an SPF 30 (that blocks 96.7% UVB), has only 3.3% of the UV rays affecting your skin, but that's enough to bring out the melanin that darkens your skin.

What is 10 minutes on a sunbed equivalent to in the sun?

Ten minutes in a sunbed can be roughly equivalent to 1-2 hours in natural sunlight, depending on factors like sunbed intensity and skin type. However, this varies widely based on geographical location, time of day, and weather conditions. Always adhere to recommended exposure times to minimise skin damage risks.

DOES SUNSCREEN WORK? | Dermatologist @DrDrayzday

Will 3 minutes in a tanning bed do anything?

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.

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.

Is SPF 30 or 50 better for tanning?

SPF 50 sunscreen formulas block a greater percentage of UVB rays. This means that the tanning effect will be even slower compared to SPF 30. SPF 50 is recommended for individuals who want to minimize tanning effects.

How to tan as a pale person?

Here's what you need to do:
  1. Exfoliation. This step is crucial if you want to avoid a tan that looks patchy. ...
  2. Hydrate. Dry skin doesn't tan well. ...
  3. Sunscreen is Your Friend, Not Your Enemy. Contrary to popular belief, sunscreen won't block you from tanning. ...
  4. Consider What You're Eating.

What SPF is best for tanning?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), any sun protection product to a degree containing a broad-spectrum rating of SPF 30 or more will guard your skin against sun-related damage including sunburns, skin cancer, early signs of aging, and, you guessed it, 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 there a healthy way to use sunbeds?

Sunbeds are sometimes marketed as a way of getting a 'safer tan'. But this isn't true. There is no such thing as safe tanning from UV radiation. If you want to look tanned, use fake tan from a bottle or get a spray tan.

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.

Can I tan just my legs in a tanning bed?

Tanning your legs using indoor sunbeds or natural UV light outdoors can be a breeze when you follow these helpful tips. Remember to exfoliate, use high-quality accelerator creams with bronzers, position your legs correctly, rotate your body, and increase your tanning time gradually.

Are there any benefits to tanning beds?

Several health benefit claims such as improved appearance, enhanced mood, and increased vitamin D levels have been attributed to tanning. Furthermore, the Indoor Tanning Association claims that “catching some rays may lengthen your life” [5].

Why am I not tanning on the sunbed?

You may need to start with short, low-intensity sessions and gradually increase the time. Trying to tan too quickly can lead to burning, which will hinder your tanning progress. Medium to Dark Skin: Those with skin types 3 to 6 will generally tan more easily.

How many sunbed sessions to get a tan for beginners?

Depending on your skin color, in general the average person can develop a base tan in 3-5 sessions which then can be maintained with regular sunbed use. Two sessions a week should be enough to further deepen your tan in a safe and gentle manner.

Does SPF work in tanning beds?

For those who wish to spend a lot of time in UV rays (from the sun or in a tanning bed), SPF can offer a level of protection while also leaving room for deepening skin tone.

Do you tan faster without sunscreen?

Yes, you will tan faster without sunscreen because your skin is not protected from the sun's rays. This doesn't mean that you should ditch the sunscreen, however. Unprotected exposure to UV rays can lead to skin damage, so it's important to use sunscreen even if you're trying to tan quickly.

Is SPF 100 too much?

But experts don't necessarily think SPF 100 sunscreen is the best choice. This is only slightly better than SPF 30 and 50 (which is blocks 98% of UVB rays). SPF 100 sunscreens can also create a false sense of security in some users, causing them to spend even more time in the sun.

Why am I not getting any darker in the tanning bed?

I have been tanning, but I'm not getting any darker. Now what? You may have reached a tanning plateau. Everyone has a limit to how dark they can get, but to try to get past your current color we recommend switching the types of beds you use every few tanning sessions.

What helps you tan faster 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.

How do you get a golden tan in a tanning bed?

6 Top Tanning Tips for a Darker and Long-lasting Tan
  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.

Previous article
Does gum bloat you?