How many sunbed sessions to get a tan for beginners?

Author: Alanna Dare  |  Last update: Friday, July 25, 2025

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.

How long to tan in a tanning bed for a beginner?

Start tanning at about 5-6 minutes in a regular bed. Cut that time in half if using a high pressure bed. If no pink or redness, move up sessions by 1-2 minutes until reaching the bed's maximum time.

How many sunbed sessions before I get a tan?

How Long Does It Take to Get A Tan? Usually, the results are noticeable after three tanning sessions, but it may take a few weeks of consistency to get a defined tan (at least 3-4 times weekly). If you are preparing a base tan before going on a holiday, consider starting tanning three weeks prior.

How many sunbeds does it take to start seeing results?

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.

How long after a sunbed will I get a tan?

Generally, you may notice some colour immediately after your session, but the full tan development might take up to 24 to 48 hours. It's important to be patient and not expect instant results, as overexposure to UV rays can be harmful to your skin. The colour will usually begin to truly darken after three sessions.

How many tanning session to get a base Tan

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.

What not to do after tanning bed?

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

What helps you tan faster on sunbeds?

1. Choose the Right Sunbed
  1. Apply a Quality Tan Accelerator.
  2. Follow the Instructions.
  3. Start with a Shorter Session.
  4. Gradually Increase Exposure Time.
  5. Rotate Your Position.
  6. Get The Right Nutrients.
  7. Remove Makeup and Cosmetics.
  8. Avoid Shaving or Waxing After Tanning.

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 6 minutes on a sunbed enough?

During the early stages of building up a base tan we recommend tanning frequently (twice a week) for no more than 6 minutes regardless of your skin type (not including skin type 1).

Are stand up sunbeds better?

Stand up sunbeds can give your skin a deeper colour, which is due to the bulbs in stand up beds being more intense than the bulbs in a lay down sunbed. So if you are aiming to achieve a very dark tan then a stand up may be the sunbed for you!

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.

What is the best tan accelerator?

  • Calypso Monoi Tahiti Bronzing Tanning Oil SPF15. ...
  • Pro Tan Beaches and Creme All-In Intensifying Serum (250ml) ...
  • ultrasun SPF30 Tan Activator Body 150ml , Pack of 1. ...
  • Power Tan Non-Stop Black Tingle Gelee (DHA Free) Hybrid UV Sunbed Tanning Accelerator Lotion 250ml.

Are you supposed to flip 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.

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.

Should you shave before or after tanning bed?

Shave or Wax: Hair can obstruct UV rays from reaching your skin and result in uneven tan. It is best to shave or wax (whatever you prefer) at least a day before your tanning session.

How to avoid white spots when tanning?

Treatment options include:
  1. wearing sunscreen every day, covering all areas of skin exposed to the sun. ...
  2. avoiding spending too long in the sun.
  3. avoiding artificial tanning beds.
  4. dermabrasion, which physically removes the outer layers of skin.
  5. topical steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, available to purchase online.

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 lay on your back or stomach in a tanning bed?

Lay on your back inside the tanning bed with your arms and legs spread. Laying with your legs together or with your arms resting against your sides can lead to an uneven or spotty tan. Stretch out your body when you first lay down to ensure all parts of your skin get exposure.

How long should you tan in a tanning bed for beginners?

How long should I tan in a tanning bed? The duration of your session depends on your skin type and tanning experience. Beginners should start with 5-7 minute sessions and gradually increase the time as their skin builds tolerance.

What makes you tan super fast?

To get a tan quickly, you can also apply a self-tanning cream all over your body or get a professional spray tan Self-tanning is effective because it contains DHA, which is a substance capable of reacting with the amino acids present in the skin, resulting in a tanned color.

Why am I not getting tan in a tanning bed?

Incorrect Tanning Bed Settings

Too little time on the bed may not give your skin enough UV exposure while too much time can cause burning and make it harder to build up a tan over time. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase as your skin adjusts. Another thing to consider is the UV intensity.

What not to do when tanning?

Avoid wearing make-up, perfume or deodorant on the day of the tanning bed session. That's because these chemicals can negatively impact the even result of the final tan. For the same reason, please don't wear watches or jewellery.

How many tanning bed sessions to get tan?

How long does it take to see results from sunbed tanning? 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 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.

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