What should I do for my first tanning bed?

Author: Shana Muller  |  Last update: Monday, June 30, 2025

SUNBED TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
  1. 1) Fill in a skin analysis form. ...
  2. 2) Decide upon the type of tanning equipment.
  3. 3) Clean the sunbed before use. ...
  4. 4) Remove all forms of makeup or cosmetics. ...
  5. 5) Apply a sunbed cream or tan accelerator for better tanning results. ...
  6. 6) What to wear while tanning indoors.

What to do for your first time in a tanning bed?

Leading up to the tanning bed session, moisturise your skin daily. Right before your session, exfoliate your skin thoroughly. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Check with your doctor first if you are on medication, as certain medications can react with UV.

How long should a beginner sit in a tanning bed?

Start with sessions of 4 or so minutes, especially if you're fair skinned. Step up your time by a minute every couple of sessions until you're getting the results you want.

How do I prepare for my first sunbed?

How to prepare your skin for a sun bed session? Do not shave or wax for at least 24 hours before or after using a sun bed. Have a cold shower, exfoliate skin when in shower. Apply a hydrating moisturiser all over body. Heat up your sun bed lotion in your hands before applying it to your body. Exfoliate and shave.

What to wear on a sunbed for beginners?

This differs from person to person on what they prefer. As you are the only one in the room with the sunbed, many people tan naked to avoid tan lines, however it is just as normal to wear underwear or a bikini whilst tanning.

TOP 5 Tips for beginners - how to start tanning?

Should you cover your nipples in a sunbed?

However some individuals have reported getting burnt nipples and breasts when using tanning beds: this is extremely painful so be sure to cover your nipples and breasts and use caution.

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.

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.

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 too long for first sunbed?

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 not to do after tanning bed?

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

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 maximize 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.

How long should a beginner stay 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.

Can I wear AirPods in a tanning bed?

Wearing AirPods in a tanning bed can be dangerous for a number of reasons. First, the heat from the tanning bed can damage the AirPods, making them unusable. Second, the noise from the tanning bed can make it difficult to hear the music or podcasts you are listening to, which can lead to overexposure to UV radiation.

How to protect your face in a tanning bed?

Always wear FDA-approved protective goggles when using a tanning bed. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient as they do not provide the necessary protection against intense UV rays emitted by tanning beds.

How to tan in a tanning bed for beginners?

Here are some of our top tips.
  1. Check with Your Doctor About Safety. ...
  2. Exfoliate Your Skin the Day Before You Tan. ...
  3. Moisturize Post-Exfoliation. ...
  4. Remove Makeup and Jewelry. ...
  5. Protect Your Lips. ...
  6. Determine Your Preferred Level of Disrobing. ...
  7. Apply Tanning Lotion. ...
  8. Protect Your Eyes.

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 do I protect my hair in a tanning bed?

Taking care of the pores and skin and protect the hair from the UV rays of the tanning beds are similarly important. To keep away from damaging your hair, ensure to apply to bathing caps, conditioners, or heat protectants.

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.

What to wear in a tanning bed?

Breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen, are ideal for ensuring that your skin can breathe and your body is prevented from overheating. You should also opt for darker colors, as these can help to reduce the risk of burns. It's also important to wear protective eyewear in a tanning bed.

What is the best position for a tanning bed?

Best Positions to Get an Even Tan

Here are some tips for getting it right in a lay-down sunbed: 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.

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!

Do tanning beds help acne?

Although using sunbeds can initially dry out the skin and reduce pimple production, this excessive drying may stimulate the skin to actually produce more oil to compensate. As the sebaceous glands in the skin develop more oil, pores are more likely to become clogged, leading to breakouts later down the line.

How many sunbeds 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.

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