Why is my face not tanning on sunbeds?

Author: Anya Kassulke  |  Last update: Sunday, October 12, 2025

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. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase as your skin adjusts. Another thing to consider is the UV intensity.

How can I make my face darker in 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 can I tan my face better on a sunbed?

What are the best ways to tan my face in a sunbed? Go on a sunbed with bar. More UVB and UVA touches your skin. Get your face and stand like this. Nose should touch the balls. Remember to move your head to the bottom. Use the built-in headrest. Lay at the end of the sunbed.

Why am I not getting tanned on a sunbed?

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.

Why is my face tan not going?

It is possible that your facial skin is more sensitive to sun exposure than the skin on the rest of your body, causing it to be less tanned. It could be due to differences skin thickness and oil production, which can affect the way light reflects off your skin.

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

Why is my face not tanning in the tanning bed?

One of the biggest factors that affects tanning is your skin type. Not all skin reacts to UV the same way, and understanding your skin type is key to setting realistic tanning goals. For example, if you are a red head and have very light skin, you'll more likely struggle to tan due to low melanin.

Why is it harder to tan your face?

The skin on your face is far more sensitive than the skin on your body and so it makes sense that it would need an entirely different formula. Facial skin doesn't tan in the same way as the body – it tends to go a little bit darker because of its higher pH.

What helps you tan faster on sunbeds?

1. Choose the Right Sunbed
  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.

Why is my face so much paler than my body?

Our faces are paler because they are exfoliated more often. Most people (or at least people who practice good skincare regimens) wash their face two or more time per day. When we wash our faces, even if we aren't using an exfoliant, some of the dead skin and top layers are rubbed off (in a gentle way).

Why aren't I getting darker on sunbeds?

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.

How do I make my face tan faster?

To get a fast, beautiful and natural tan, see the following tips:
  1. Eat a diet rich in beta-carotenes. ...
  2. Exfoliate your skin. ...
  3. Sunbathe with sunscreen. ...
  4. Moisturize and nourish the skin. ...
  5. Avoid prolonged exposure. ...
  6. Change positions frequently. ...
  7. Take breaks. ...
  8. Use self-tanner.

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 not to do after tanning bed?

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

How do I tan my face on a sunbed?

It is always recommended to use a face tanner in a tanning bed. Facial tanners will provide more UVA rays to your skin and give a deeper, longer lasting tan. Paired with a good lotion you should be able to avoid any premature aging or damage to your skin.

What is the best tan accelerator?

  • Calypso Monoi Tahiti Bronzing Tanning Oil SPF15. ...
  • Pro Tan Beaches and Creme All-In Intensifying Serum (250ml) ...
  • ultrasun SPF30 Tan Activator Body 150ml , Pack of 1. ...
  • Power Tan Non-Stop Black Tingle Gelee (DHA Free) Hybrid UV Sunbed Tanning Accelerator Lotion 250ml.

Do you tan faster in water or laying out?

You don't necessarily tan faster in water or laying out. This is because water reflects UV rays, so you may not be getting as much exposure as you think if you're actually in the pool.

What deficiency makes face pale?

Paleness may be the result of decreased blood supply to the skin. It can also be due to decreased number of red blood cells (anemia). Paleness of the skin is not the same as loss of pigment from the skin. Paleness is related to blood flow in the skin rather than deposit of melanin in the skin.

Why is my body white but my face dark?

The skin on your face may get darkened from the rest of your body owing to overexposure to sun rays or medical conditions, in some cases. However, it's not a serious issue and can be easily resolved with simple skin care tricks, home remedies, and medications.

Why do my legs tan more than my face?

First, your legs may be exposed to more sunlight than the rest of your body, e.g., if you're wearing shorts. Second, the skin on your legs is usually thinner than the skin on other parts of your body, so the UV rays can penetrate it more easily.

Why am I not tanning on the sunbed anymore?

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.

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 face darker in tanning bed?

Avoid makeup and perfume: These products can act as a barrier to UV rays, causing uneven tanning. So, go makeup-free and perfume-free during your tanning session. It's also important to protect your face while building color. Use a specially formulated facial lotion designed for tanning.

How do I get my face to tan better?

Make sure you dry your face completely afterwards before applying the tan. Apply moisture: the trick to perfecting self tan in any tricky areas is using a moisturiser as it helps it blend or works as a barrier to prevent the tan from building up amongst your dry/dead skin cells.

Why does tan not work on my face?

This is because we tend to wash our face more often than our bodies with considerably more emphasis – think of all those face washes, face masks and cleansers! To make your tan last longer, try applying a combination of ¼ self-tanner and ¾ your favourite daily moisturiser every few days.

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