Why am I not seeing results in a tanning bed?

Author: Jayda Mann  |  Last update: Thursday, January 22, 2026

Exfoliate: Dead skin cells can block UV rays from reaching fresh skin layers and hinder tanning. Exfoliate a day or two before your session to remove dead skin cells and get even tanning. Moisturise Properly: Hydrated skin absorbs UV rays more efficiently, thus better results.

Why am I not seeing results from my sunbed?

You've hit a tanning plateau because of these 3 mistakes: | 1) You're tanning 1x week... 2) You're using the same bed every time you tan! Play with the different intensities to work your way up to level 5 beds. 3) You're not switching between accelerator and bronzing lotions! original sound - Bottoms Up Tanning.

Why am I not getting a tan after the tanning bed?

If your skin responded well to tanning before, there really should not be a reason why your skin suddenly is not responding. You might need to have UV light turned up, maybe the strength of light being used is less now then what you used to have before.

How long does it take to see results from a tanning bed?

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.

Why is my tanning bed not working?

Your sunbeds are made up of large circuits. When an element does not work it can sometimes cause a short. This means even if you replace the item the problem is actually elsewhere. This could be a loose wire or a faulty strobe. Just like a short in your home where a new bulb can blow if your circuit trips.

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

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.

Why am I tanning but not getting tan?

I have been tanning, but I'm not getting any darker. Now what? You may have reached a tanning plateau. Everyone has a limit to how dark they can get, but to try to get past your current color we recommend switching the types of beds you use every few tanning sessions.

Why am I not tanning on sunbeds?

Incorrect Tanning Bed Settings

Tanning beds have different UV intensity and exposure times, so find the right combination for your skin type. Too little time on the bed may not give your skin enough UV exposure while too much time can cause burning and make it harder to build up a tan over time.

What is 10 minutes in a tanning bed equal to?

These fluorescent lamps range anywhere from 100-watt bulbs to 140-watt bulbs. Because of their power – and the fact that they simulate UVA rays vs. UVB rays – they can actually penetrate the skin on a deeper level than the sun. This is why ten minutes in a tanning bed equates to about two hours of direct sun exposure.

What not to do after tanning bed?

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

Why are my legs not tanning in the tanning bed?

Compared to the rest of the body, skin on the legs does not produce the same amount of melanin, which results in legs getting less tan. Skin on the legs is thicker and harder and the UV light from the sun or sunbeds cannot easily penetrate it.

Why didn't my tan develop?

To achieve best results, it is paramount that the DHA in the spray tan and the amino acids in the skin react to each other. Skincare products like moisturisers, deodorants and oily products often obstruct this process and the spray tan will not set properly.

How do I get my tanning bed to work?

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.

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 .

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 long does it take to see tanning bed results?

Typically, you'll see results after 3-5 sessions.

How to get a darker tan on sunbeds?

If you're using our lay-down or stand-up sun beds, we recommend starting back at 4 or 5 minutes for your first few sun beds. Having fewer minutes more frequently will build you a darker, longer-lasting tan faster than visiting just once a week and opting for more minutes.

Will 6 minutes on a sunbed do anything?

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.

Why is my body not tanning?

If the skin has been inflamed or is severely dry, the melanocytes (cells that give the skin its color) in that area do not react to UV light the same as they do in non-affected/dry skin areas.

Do you tan better on sunbed without cream?

By using a tanning lotion, the tanning process is sped up, meaning you save both time and money on tanning sessions to get the same (or even better) results. Dry skin reflects light, meaning that your tan will be less effective and will need to spend more time tanning to get the same results.

Why am I not getting any 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.

How to get a deep tan?

6 Top Tanning Tips for a Darker and Long-lasting Tan
  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.

Why am I not getting an even tan in the tanning bed?

Choose your outfit: What you wear during your tanning session can impact the evenness of your tan. Ideally, you should wear as little as possible to minimize tan lines. Avoid makeup and perfume: These products can act as a barrier to UV rays, causing uneven tanning.

Why aren t my legs tanning on the sunbed?

Problem 1 - the skin on the legs has fewer sebaceous glands which are what provides moisture. Problem 2 - there are fewer melanocytes in the legs. These are what stimulate melanin production. Problem 3 - dead skin cells form a barrier to UV radiation and lotions.

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