How to Tan Faster in a Tanning Bed: Tips, Pros and Cons, Alternatives, and More

Looking for a quick way to get a tan without spending hours under the sun? Tanning beds might just be what you need. However, not everyone knows how to use them effectively. In this article, we’ll discuss tips on how to tan faster in a tanning bed, its pros and cons, alternatives, step-by-step guide, and more.

Who Should Use a Tanning Bed?

Before diving into the details, it’s important to know who should and shouldn’t use a tanning bed. People with fair skin that burns easily, those who have a history of skin cancer or are at high risk of developing it, and people who are taking certain medications should avoid tanning beds altogether.

On the other hand, people with naturally darker skin who want to enhance their tan, individuals who live in areas with limited sunlight exposure, and those who use tanning beds in moderation can benefit from it.

When to Use a Tanning Bed?

Tanning beds can be used year-round, but it’s important to use them in moderation. Overexposure to UV radiation can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Experts recommend no more than two sessions per week, with each session lasting around 10-15 minutes.

How to Tan Faster in a Tanning Bed?

If you’re looking to get a deeper tan in less time, follow these tips:

1. Exfoliate your skin before tanning to remove dead skin cells and ensure an even tan.
2. Moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and prevent it from drying out.
3. Use a tanning lotion or accelerator to enhance your tan and protect your skin from UV rays.
4. Wear protective eyewear to prevent eye damage from the UV rays.
5. Change positions every few minutes to ensure an even tan on all sides of your body.

Pros and Cons of Using a Tanning Bed

Like any other beauty treatment, there are pros and cons to using a tanning bed.

Pros:

1. Indoor tanning allows you to get a tan year-round, regardless of the weather.
2. Tanning beds can help boost vitamin D levels in the body, which is essential for bone health.
3. Tanning beds allow you to control the intensity and duration of your tanning session.

Cons:

1. Tanning beds can increase the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and skin damage.
2. Overexposure to UV radiation can cause sunburn, eye damage, and weakened immune system.
3. Tanning beds are not recommended for people with fair skin, those who have a history of skin cancer, and individuals who use them excessively.

Alternatives to Tanning Beds

If you’re hesitant about using a tanning bed, there are alternatives that can give you a similar result without the risks:

1. Self-tanning products: These products contain DHA, which reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of the skin to produce a natural-looking tan.
2. Spray tans: Similar to self-tanning products, spray tans also contain DHA but are applied by a professional using a spray gun.
3. Bronzing makeup: Bronzers can give you an instant tan without exposing yourself to UV radiation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tanning in a Tanning Bed

If you’re new to indoor tanning, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Choose the right tanning bed: Select a bed with the appropriate UVB and UVA levels for your skin type.
2. Remove makeup and jewelry: Before tanning, remove any makeup or jewelry to avoid discoloration and skin irritation.
3. Exfoliate and moisturize: Prep your skin by exfoliating and moisturizing it.
4. Put on protective eyewear: Wear goggles or eye stickers to protect your eyes from the UV rays.
5. Apply tanning lotion or accelerator: Apply a small amount of tanning lotion or accelerator to enhance your tan and protect your skin.
6. Start tanning: Enter the tanning bed and position yourself correctly.
7. Change positions: Flip over every few minutes to ensure an even tan.
8. Finish and moisturize: Once you’re done, apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

Compare Tanning Beds vs. Natural Sunlight

While using a tanning bed can be a convenient way to get a tan, it’s important to compare it with natural sunlight to see which is better:

Tanning Beds:

1. Controlled environment
2. Consistent exposure
3. No risk of sunburn or exposure to harmful UVB rays
4. Can enhance vitamin D production

Natural Sunlight:

1. Free and abundant source of vitamin D
2. Fresh air and outdoor experience
3. Can provide various health benefits apart from tanning, such as boosting mood and immune system
4. Unpredictable weather and limited availability depending on location and season

Ultimately, the choice between using a tanning bed and getting a natural tan is up to personal preference, but it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of both.

Tips for Safe Tanning Bed Use

To reduce the risks associated with tanning beds, follow these tips:

1. Start with short sessions: Begin with 5-10 minute sessions and gradually increase the time.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after tanning to keep your body hydrated.
3. Avoid overexposure: Stick to no more than two sessions per week and avoid prolonged use.
4. Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear to prevent damage to your eyes.
5. Choose the right tanning bed: Make sure to select a bed with the appropriate UV levels for your skin type.

The Best Tanning Bed for Home Use

If you’re looking to purchase a tanning bed for home use, here are some options to consider:

1. ProSun Onyx 28: A popular vertical tanning bed with high-quality bulbs and an adjustable ventilation system.
2. Solar Storm 24S: A horizontal tanning bed that features 12 Wolff high-output lamps and an MP3 audio system.
3. SunLite 32R Deluxe: A mid-range vertical tanning bed that offers 32 high-performance lamps and a full-body cooling system.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to use a tanning bed?

Tanning beds can increase the risk of skin damage and cancer, but with proper use and precautions, it can be safe for some individuals.

1. How long does it take to see results from tanning beds?

Results may vary depending on skin type, but it typically takes several sessions to achieve a noticeable tan.

1. Can I wear makeup while tanning in a tanning bed?

It’s best to remove makeup before tanning to avoid discoloration and irritation.

1. How often should I replace the bulbs in my tanning bed?

Bulbs should be replaced every 500 hours of use or once a year.

1. Can I tan in a tanning bed if I’m pregnant?

It’s best to avoid tanning beds during pregnancy as the UV radiation can harm the developing fetus.

Conclusion

Tanning beds can be an effective way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without spending hours under the sun. But like any other beauty treatment, it’s important to use them in moderation and with caution. By following the tips and guidelines in this article, you can safely and effectively get the tan you desire.