Why are my legs not tanning in the tanning bed?

Author: Bulah Lehner  |  Last update: Monday, September 1, 2025

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.

How do you tan your legs in a tanning bed?

Rotate your body: To ensure an even tan, rotate your body during your tanning session. Spend time lying on your back, front, and sides to expose all parts of your legs to the UV light evenly.

Why won't my skin tan in a 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 tan legs on sunbed?

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.

Why does tan not take to my legs?

But now we're tanned and gorgeous, thanks to the guiding hand of dermatologist and author Dr. Doris J. Day. The legs are a very difficult part of they body to apply the self tanners to. This is because your legs have varying skin thickness levels and self tanners only penetrate through the upper layer of your skin.

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

Why won't my legs tan on a sunbed?

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.

What is the best tan accelerator?

Discover our top picks of tan accelerators will give you that healthy, bronzed goddess glow and keep your skin hydrated as well.
  • The Fox Tan Rapid Elixir.
  • Gatineau Tan Accelerating Lotion.
  • Piz Buin Tan and Protect Spray SPF 30.
  • Lancaster Golden Tan Maximizer After Sun Oil.

What is the fastest way to get tan in a tanning bed?

How To Tan Quicker On Sunbeds
  1. Apply a Quality Tan Accelerator.
  2. Follow the Instructions.
  3. Start with a Shorter Session.
  4. Gradually Increase Exposure Time.
  5. Rotate Your Position.
  6. Get The Right Nutrients.
  7. Remove Makeup and Cosmetics.
  8. Avoid Shaving or Waxing After Tanning.

What makes your legs tan faster?

Exfoliate: Before tanning, exfoliate your legs to remove dead skin cells. This helps your skin absorb sunlight more effectively. Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. This prevents sunburn and promotes a safer, more gradual tan.

What not to do after tanning bed?

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

Why am I tanning but not getting darker?

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 maximize tanning bed results?

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.

How to tan if you are pale?

Natural Sun Tanning

Fair skin can tan under the sun, but only with care. Start with short, consistent exposure, about 10-15 minutes a day during safer times like early morning or late afternoon.

Why am I not tanning on the sunbed?

You may need to start with short, low-intensity sessions and gradually increase the time. Trying to tan too quickly can lead to burning, which will hinder your tanning progress. Medium to Dark Skin: Those with skin types 3 to 6 will generally tan more easily.

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

Best Positions to Get an Even Tan

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 sunbed is better for tanning legs?

If you're looking for a quick and efficient tan, a stand-up sunbed may be the right choice for you. If you're looking for a more relaxed and comfortable experience, a lay-down sunbed may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

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.

How to increase melanin in legs?

Currently, no safe or proven method exists to increase melanin – the pigment, or color, in a person's skin, hair, and eyes. A person's genetics determine their natural melanin levels and skin color. In general, people who have darker skin tones have more melanin than those with lighter skin tones.

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 .

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.

Should you shave before or after tanning bed?

Before you get in the tanning bed, it's important to shower, shave, and exfoliate. Just like spray tanning, exfoliating off the dead skin will help you get a more even tan. It's also important to avoid shaving or exfoliating right before the tanning bed, as your skin may be sensitive.

Is bronzer or accelerator better for sunbeds?

Accelerators are great if you are new to tanning, if you have very limited sun exposure or if you are struggling to deepen your tan. Ingredients such as L-Tyrosine stimulate the production of melanin in deeper skin layers. Bronzers depending on their strength are suitable for any skin type.

What ingredient makes you tan faster?

Boost Your Beta-Carotene Intake

Foods rich in beta-carotene, like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale, can give your skin a natural glow while enhancing its ability to tan.

What level tanning bed gives you the best tan?

Level 3 offers medium pressure lamps with lower UV rays and more UVA rays, providing a faster and deeper tan than Level 1 and Level 2. And finally Level 4 tanning beds (and up) feature ridiculously fast tanning times, with sometimes next to zero UVB rays, guaranteeing a dark tan with virtually no chance of a sunburn.

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