Why am I blotchy after sunbed?

Author: Ms. Alfreda Cummerata  |  Last update: Saturday, December 27, 2025

The rash appears in people who have developed sensitivity to sunlight, especially ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources, such as tanning beds. This is called photosensitivity. It leads to immune system activity that causes a rash.

Why does my skin look blotchy after tanning bed?

Your skin may become itchy or develop bumps after using a tanning bed for a variety of reasons: Your skin has become overheated from the tanning bed. You are suffering from polymorphous light eruption, which causes red bumps to appear on the skin after exposure to UV light.

Why do I get red blotches on my skin after a sunbed?

Yes. Tanning booths and beds can cause people to develop a rash. The itching and bumps you notice may be caused by too much UV light exposure. Your skin also could be sensitive to chemicals used to clean tanning beds or ingredients in cosmetics or lotions.

How to get rid of patchy skin from sunbeds?

There's currently no cure to the condition but symptoms can be managed with the use of steroid creams and ointments. When used correctly, the creams usually help ease or alleviate symptoms entirely.

Why is my skin blotchy after sun tanning?

That extra melanin is what creates a suntan. But sometimes skin doesn't make melanin evenly. As a result, the skin's coloring, called pigmentation, looks patchy. The sun also can cause small blood vessels to stretch, giving skin a blotchy look.

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What not to do after tanning bed?

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

Why is my skin spotty after tanning?

While there are many different reasons behind them, they are more than likely to be the outcome of a common skin infection caused by tanning. This condition usually stops the creation of melanin in the affected areas of the skin.

Why is the sunbed giving me spots?

While sunbed usage may initially result in skin dryness and a decrease in pimple formation, this excessive drying can trigger the skin to produce more oil in an attempt to compensate. As the sebaceous glands develop more oil, there is an increased likelihood of pores becoming blocked, eventually leading to breakouts.

How long does it take for a tanning bed rash to go away?

The outlook for a tanning bed rash is usually good. Despite causing discomfort, a tanning bed rash usually clears up in a few days.

Is it normal to be a little red after a tanning bed?

Yes, it's normal to be a little red after tanning. This is because you've been exposed to a heat source. When you get warm, your body dilates your small blood vessels so that you can lose excess heat through the surface of the skin.

When should I be concerned about skin blotches?

A new, widespread rash can be a sign of a more severe issue. If the rash spreads quickly, it could be an allergic reaction. But rashes that spread slowly should also be examined. Some viral infections and other conditions may involve a full-body rash.

How to stop bum burning on sunbed?

Aftersun creams and lotions such as Aloe Vera lotion will help with cooling down the skin. Many people keep Aloe Vera plants in their homes for several different purposes. If you have an Aloe Vera plant at home, cut one of the leaves from the plant and rub the aloe sap directly onto the burn for cooling relief.

What does a sunbed rash look like?

The rash can take many different forms (polymorphic): you may get crops of 2mm to 5mm raised, pink or red spots, but redness may be harder to see on brown and black skin. some people get blisters that turn into larger, dry patches – it looks a bit like eczema.

How do you fix blotchy sun tan?

Using body products with either vitamin C or coconut oil (or both!) are good products to apply onto the skin. All types of natural oils are extremely healthy for your skin. Simply take some coconut oil (mixing other natural oils is okay as well), apply it on the uneven tanned areas, and leave it on overnight.

How do you reverse the effects of a tanning bed?

Injectables like dermal fillers and Botox are useful for temporary tanning bed damage repair. With these treatments, an aesthetician injects the compound into targeted areas to reduce signs of premature aging by filling in fine lines and wrinkles. The result is a smoother, more youthful appearance.

What are the bad signs from sunbeds?

Sunbeds give off UV rays that can be to fifteen times stronger than the midday Mediterranean sun. What sunbeds can do is cause your skin to sag and wrinkle.

How long does sunbed burn last?

Your skin will get redder and more irritated, with pain peaking at about 24 hours after your burn. If you have a second-degree sunburn, you'll start to blister. Over the next week or so, your skin may peel and should gradually return to its normal shade. If you have a severe sunburn, this may take a few weeks.

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.

What does tinea versicolor look like?

On darker skin, tinea versicolor appears white or light tan. On lighter or paler skin, tinea versicolor looks light red or pink. Some patches or spots can become scaly and dry. Over time, the patches get larger and start to connect, covering larger areas of your skin.

Why do I get red spots on my skin after tanning?

The exact cause of polymorphous light eruption isn't understood. The rash appears in people who have developed sensitivity to sunlight, especially ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources, such as tanning beds. This is called photosensitivity. It leads to immune system activity that causes a rash.

How to tan under bum cheeks on sunbed?

In the final three minutes of your tanning session, lift the lid, and sit on the edge of the bed. This simple move stretches out the skin under your bum cheeks, leaving you with an even, sun-kissed glow.

How many sunbeds a week are safe?

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 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 it normal to be red after tanning bed?

Burns from tanning beds are similar to burns from the sun, except you may get burned in spots the sun usually doesn't reach. If you spend too much time in the bed and end up with stinging, red skin, you'll need to give your skin some extra pampering to cool it down and ease the pain.

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