What is the best position to lay in a tanning bed?

Author: Carissa Dibbert II  |  Last update: Saturday, November 1, 2025

Start Flat: Begin your session lying flat on your back. This position exposes the largest surface area of your body to UV rays. Leg Lift: After some time, lift your legs slightly.

What is the correct way to lay in a tanning bed?

What's the best way to lie in a tanning bed? We recommend lying on your back with your arms several inches away from your sides. You'll want to keep your palms facing up and make sure there's a slight bend in your knees.

How can I maximize my tanning bed results?

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.

What not to do in a tanning bed?

Don'ts
  • 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.

Are you supposed to flip sides 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.

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

What is the golden rule of tanning?

The professional indoor tanning industry promotes and teaches what we refer to as The Golden Rule of Smart Tanning: Don't ever sunburn. The indoor tanning industry has been more effective at teaching sunburn prevention than those who promote complete sun avoidance.

How to tan faster in a tanning bed?

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 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.

Should you cover your privates in a tanning bed?

If you're going commando, it might be a good idea to protect your most sensitive parts, such as nipples and genitals, because the skin is more sensitive and could be more prone to burning (you definitely don't want to burn there-ouch!).

How many times should I tan the bed to see results?

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 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.

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 20 minutes of tanning bed enough?

This means shorter tanning sessions can be effective, with studies showing that just 20 minutes on a sunbed can give results equivalent to four hours in the sun. The effectiveness of sunbed tanning depends on factors like skin type, UV intensity, and the type of tanning bed.

Should I lay-down or stand-up in tanning bed?

If you prioritise comfort and relaxation, a lay-down bed is likely the best fit, especially for those who find stand-up beds more intense. If you prefer a faster, more efficient session with even coverage, stand-up tanning may be the way to go.

Should I cover my face in tanning bed?

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.

What is the healthiest way to use a tanning bed?

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.

What not to do after tanning bed?

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

Are you supposed to flip in a tanning bed?

Most tanning beds are designed to provide an even tan without moving. However, if your uncomfortable laying in the same position, you can move around to relieve pressure points. In conclusion, flipping over in a tanning bed is not necessary, but it will not ruin your tan if you choose to do so.

How to protect nipples in a tanning bed?

Reusable, self-adhesive silicone gel nipple covers, with a soft fabric outer cover. Fun addition to your tanning bed experience. Blocks UV rays from drying and cracking while tanning. It can be used during sports or training activities to prevent chafing.

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.

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.

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.

How to get the best results from sunbeds?

MOISTURISE YOUR SKIN

Prior to your sunbed session, moisturize your skin using a gentle, oil-free lotion. Pay special attention to areas prone to dryness, such as elbows, knees, and ankles. Make sure you are using a tanning lotion formulated for indoor tanning for best tanning results!

Why am I not getting darker in the tanning bed?

As you progress in your tanning journey your skin becomes thicker. This means it is harder for UV light to penetrate your skin. That is typically when you will reach a point where your skin is not getting any darker.

What level tanning bed gets you the darkest?

While 4-6, referred to as our “Higher Level” beds, tan on the surface level of your skin. They are great for getting you a dark color quickly because they tan the melanin found at the surface of your skin.

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