There is NO safe way to use a sunbed ! The WHO has classified sunbeds as a group 1 carcinogen—this means they are proven to cause cancer1. They are not suitable as a source of vitamin D. Any vitamin D you might get through using a sunbed is outweighed by the harms of using sunbeds.
Tanning in a bed should be approached with caution due to the risks associated with UV exposure. Generally, it's recommended to limit tanning sessions to no more than 2-3 times per week. Here are some guidelines to consider:
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.
For instance, individuals with fair to medium skin tones may achieve satisfactory results in approximately 6 minutes on a sunbed. However, it's crucial to adjust the duration based on skin sensitivity and tanning goals.
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.
Avoid using harsh or fragranced products immediately after tanning, as they may further irritate the skin.
☀️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 .
Use short exposure times when you start. Don't use the most intense exposure when you start. After you have a tan, don't use the device more than once a week.
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.
You can use a disposable paper face mask or a reusable cloth face mask to cover your face while tanning. Make sure whatever you're using is clean and free of any makeup or oils, as these can create a barrier between your skin and the UV rays.
Two sessions a week should be enough to further deepen your tan in a safe and gentle manner. If you simply want to maintain the tan you already have (for example, when you get back from holiday), then one session a week will probably be enough.
Indoor tanning speeds up skin aging
Indoor tanning is known to cause wrinkles, brown spots and thick leathery skin. Indoor tanning ages your skin 3 times faster than sunlight: indoor tanning can emit up to 15 times more UV radiation than sunlight.
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.
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.
Also, it is a safety requirement for all sunbed users to wear protective goggles to prevent eye damage from the UV rays. It's important that you understand your own personal risk factors if you choose to use sunbeds; this includes session lengths, your skin type, medical conditions, ancestry, and your age.
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.
Time your tanning
The sun is typically strongest between noon and 3 p.m., which can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. If you have fair skin, consider tanning in the morning or after 3 p.m. to avoid burning.