Is 6 minutes on a sunbed too long?

Author: Lisa Little  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Comparing Tanning Times 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.

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).

What is 5 minutes on a sunbed equivalent to?

From there you can begin to figure out just how much time translates between using the sunbed and gaining a natural tan. So if you were to have a five minutes sunbed session, it would convert to around an hour in the actual sun.

Is 7 minutes too long 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.

What is the longest you should be in a tanning bed?

Once you have a base tan, you can increase your tanning time by one minute each session. After four weeks of tanning, someone with Type 2 skin should be able to tan for about 10 to 12 minutes without burning. Exceeding this time for Type 2 skin can result in burns and is not recommended.

Facing The Consequences Of Being A Sunbed Addict

What not to do after tanning bed?

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

Is it OK to go in a tanning bed 3 days in a row?

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.

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.

Are there benefits to sunbeds?

It's crucial to recognise that the health benefits associated with exposure to natural sunlight, such as heightened Vitamin D production, diminished inflammation, improved skin conditions, reduced blood pressure, and enhanced heart health, can be effectively replicated through sunbed use.

How long on a sunbed to get a tan?

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 lie down sunbeds tan you better?

Many people ask, are stand up sunbeds better? Well, stand-up tanning often features higher-intensity bulbs, meaning shorter sessions are required to achieve the desired results. Lay-down tanning, while slightly less intense, provides a more gradual tanning experience.

Do you get vitamin D from tanning beds?

It doesn't. The bulbs used in tanning beds emit mostly UVA light; however, your body needs UVB light to make vitamin D. To get vitamin D safely, board-certified dermatologists recommend that healthy adults get vitamin D from their diet.

Can you tan in 6 minutes?

Comparing Tanning Times

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 bad is 1 sunbed a week?

Even one sunbed session can increase your risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer by 67% and basal cell skin cancer by 29%. Even more importantly is the increased risk of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.

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.

Why do I feel better after tanning bed?

Indoor tanning is more addictive than you might think. The allure lies in the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals triggered by exposure to UV rays. When you're basking under those warm lights, your brain gets a surge of these mood-enhancing chemicals, creating a euphoric sensation.

Do sunbeds reduce inflammation?

Efficacy of Tanning Beds

While different tanning beds emit variable amounts of UVB and UVA (varying in both the absolute flux and the ratio of UVB to UVA), there is extensive in vitro evidence that both UVA and UVB have anti-inflammatory effects (Tables 1, 2).

Is a sunbed worse than lying in the sun?

Using a sunbed isn't safer than sunbathing. 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.

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 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 .

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.

Will 3 minutes on a sunbed do anything?

Skin Type 5: Session 1 – 3 Minutes, Session 2 – 4 Minutes, Session 3 – 5 Minutes, Session 4 – 6 Minutes, Session 5 – 7 minutes, Session 6 – 8 minutes. You are likely to see results very quickly, therefore you will not need to spend as much time on the sunbed to get results.

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.

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