Tanning beds are a popular method for achieving a year-round tan. However, many people wonder if they can use tanning oil in a tanning bed to enhance their results. We have to say that the answer is no if it included mineral oil. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of using tanning oil in a tanning bed and provide tips for achieving the best results.
Why You Should Not Use Tanning oil with Mineral oil in A Tanning Bed?
Acrylic is commonly used to make tanning beds. A tanning bed is a bed made of glass simulating the sun and helps induce melanin synthesis in the skin due to the UV radiation that surrounds it.
Furthermore, the acrylic liner protects the tanning person and the glass, ensuring that the glass does not break if given too much pressure.
On the other hand, mineral oils are the principal constituent of tanning oils, which help your skin take more UV radiation than it would typically do by itself.
Acrylic will react chemically with mineral oils when using tanning oil in a tanning bed. As a result, the tanning bed gradually wears out and degrades and appears harmful to the person who is tanning inside.
On average, a tanning bed might last up to 1000 hours. However, just one tiny mineral oil drop might ruin the acrylic coating, rendering it dangerous and worthless.
Doing so will shorten a tanning bed’s life and render it inefficient. To make matters worse, the repair expenses are expensive.
As a result, it is advisable to apply a tanning lotion that is developed for use in tanning beds instead of tanning oil.

Tanning oil is not designed for sunbeds.
When sunbathing in a tanning bed, you have two choices. The first one is to utilize tanning lotions which are mainly designed for use in sunbed tanning.
Another option is to get a tanning oil that does not include mineral oil. So, examine the components of your products beforehand and consult with your tanning salon manager to ensure that they allow you to use your oil in the sunbed session.
You will be punished if the salon finds out you use it with harmful ingredients without their permission.
The Best Tanning Oils to Use in a Tanning Bed
When choosing a tanning oil to use in a tanning bed, look for products that contain nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and vitamin E. Some popular tanning oils include:
- Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator
- Maui Babe Browning Lotion
- Ed Hardy Coconut Kisses Golden Tanning Lotion
- Banana Boat Deep Tanning Oil Spray
Can You Use Other Kinds Of Tanning Oils In A Tanning Bed?
Carrot oil
Fortunately, you can use carrot oil in your indoor tanning session because it does not contain mineral oil, which can not be used in a tanning bed session.
Carrot oil is formed by adding carrot extract with a specific type of oil, which is usually sweet almond oil, sunflower oil, or, less commonly, olive oil. Once carrot oil is combined with olive oil, the obtained oil is heavier than sweet almond and sunflower oils.
Carrot oil contains healthy characteristics for the skin in a tanning bed. Vitamin A is among the most critical ingredients in carrot oil, which helps build the skin to prepare you for sun exposure.
There are also vitamins C and E, as well as antioxidants, which together help diminish the indications of aging and counteract free radicals. As a result, it can strengthen your skin and prepare you for sunlight exposure.
Carrot seed oil aids in the healing and restoration of cracked, chapped, and dry skin, as well as the balance of hydration, the reduction of wrinkles, and the rejuvenation of mature skin.
It is the principal active element that causes you to tan quicker because it is a primary melanin unit. It stimulates the skin to be brown faster and better in the sunlight as a naturally active tan booster.
The first technique to use carrot oil is to take a small quantity in the hands and massage it all over the body, particularly your feet, which have been entirely covered by shoes. Taking several drops of carrot oil in the moisturizer is another method. Doing so will enable you to hydrate as usual with carrot oil.
However, because carrot oil merely functions as a tanning booster and contains no SPF, if you are exposed to the sun for an extended time, it will not protect your skin from burning. As a result, remember to wear SPF in conjunction with the carrot oil when heading out in the sun.
Grapeseed oil
Grapeseed oil can be used in a tanning bed. It is made from crushed grape seeds. It is a potent carrier oil that has lately made its way into beauty products due to its numerous anti-aging properties.
This oil comes with Vitamin E, Linoleic Acid, and potent polyphenol antioxidants. This oil can effectively absorb your skin to avoid dryness while also maintaining your pores free and decreasing indications of aging by avoiding age spots and wrinkles.
When applied for a tanning bed session, this oil can help keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
Another advantage of grapeseed oil’s potent antioxidants is that it aids in preventing the skin from getting the full extent of UV radiation harm.
However, with all oils in general, and grapeseed oil in particular, it is still recommended to wear sunscreen to prevent skin from a sunburn before prolonged UV ray exposure.

Do not shower right after a tanning bed session.
Comparing Tanning Oil to Other Tanning Products
When compared to other tanning products like tanning lotion and self-tanner, tanning oil offers a different set of benefits and drawbacks. Here are some comparisons:
Tanning Oil vs. Tanning Lotion
Tanning oil and tanning lotion both work to enhance tanning results, but they differ in their texture and consistency. Tanning oil is usually thinner and more easily absorbed into the skin, while tanning lotion is thicker and often contains ingredients like bronzer or DHA to darken the skin. Tanning lotion may be a better option for those with dry or mature skin, as it can provide additional hydration.
Tanning Oil vs. Self-Tanner
Tanning oil and self-tanner both offer a way to achieve a tan without UV exposure, but they work in different ways. Tanning oil amplifies the effects of UV rays, while self-tanner works by temporarily dyeing the outer layer of the skin. Self-tanner may be a better option for those who want more control over the depth and intensity of their tan, as it can be applied more precisely than tanning oil.
Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the Best Results with Tanning Oil
Follow these steps to achieve the best results with tanning oil:
- Always start with clean, exfoliated skin to ensure even application.
- Apply the tanning oil evenly to your skin, taking care not to miss any areas.
- Wait a few minutes for the oil to absorb into your skin before entering the tanning bed.
- Start with a lower time limit, gradually increasing as you build up your tan.
- Use a tanning bed that emits UVA and UVB rays to achieve a more natural-looking tan.
- Moisturize your skin regularly to maintain your tan and prevent dryness.
Conclusion
In summary, using tanning oil in a tanning bed can enhance tanning results, moisturize the skin, and speed up the tanning process. However, it can also increase the risk of sunburn and may not be suitable for all skin types. Alternatives like tanning lotion, self-tanner, and spray tan offer different options for achieving a tan without UV exposure. When using tanning oil, follow the steps and tips outlined in this article to achieve the best results.
FAQs
- Can you use any type of oil in a tanning bed?
No, not all oils are suitable for use in a tanning bed. Only use products specifically designed for indoor tanning, as other oils may interfere with the effectiveness of the bulbs or increase the risk of sunburn.
- How long should you wait after using tanning oil before showering?
Wait at least 2 hours before showering or sweating to allow the tan to fully develop.
- Can using tanning oil cause skin damage or skin cancer?
Yes, overexposure to UV rays can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Always follow the instructions on the tanning bed and use caution to avoid overexposure.
- Is it safe to use tanning oil while pregnant?
It is generally not recommended to use tanning oil or expose yourself to UV rays while pregnant, as it can increase the risk of skin damage and harm the developing fetus.
- How often should you use tanning oil in a tanning bed?
It is recommended to alternate between different tanning products to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Use tanning oil every other time you tan, and moisturize regularly to maintain your tan.
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