skin preparation for tanning

Why Prep Your Skin Before a Tanning Bed Session?

You may have recently discovered a secret that could enhance your tanning results just in time for summer. You may have heard about the importance of preparing your skin before using a tanning bed, but perhaps you haven’t given it much attention due to your busy beauty routine.

Well, let me tell you, it’s not just hype. Exfoliating, hydrating, and choosing the right lotion aren’t just fancy extras; they’re the trifecta that stands between you and that flawless glow. It’s all about setting the stage for your skin to take center stage under those UV lights. And trust me, skipping these steps can lead to a splotchy tan or, worse, damage that’ll have you running for cover-ups instead of showing off.

Now, let’s strip down the facts and get to the bare essentials of why prepping your skin is a must-do before you bask in the artificial sun.

Key Takeaways

  • Assessing your skin type and sensitivity is crucial before tanning to avoid potential skin damage and choose the right approach.
  • Exfoliating and moisturizing your skin before tanning helps to remove dead skin cells, keep your skin hydrated, and extend the life of your tan.
  • Selecting the appropriate tanning bed lotion based on your needs, such as bronzing lotions, tingle lotions, and tan extenders, can enhance your tanning experience.
  • Following during-the-session protocols, such as applying tanning lotion evenly, wearing eye protection, and adhering to FDA guidelines, ensures an optimal tan development and protects your skin.

Assess Skin Type and Sensitivity

Before you use a tanning bed, it’s important to understand your skin’s needs and how it might react. You need to know your skin type and whether it tans easily or gets sunburned. That’s where you should begin.

Don’t play guessing games with your skin care. If you’re the sensitive type, or if your skin’s got a history of throwing shade when it meets UV rays, hit up your dermatologist. They’re like the wise gurus of skin enlightenment. And for the love of a good tan, check if those meds you’re popping are the secret admirers of sunlight, making your skin all the more vulnerable.

Let’s discuss preparing the canvas for indoor tanning. Exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells, ensuring an even skin tone for a beautiful tan. Each tanning session is like a date with the sun indoors, so make it count. Remember, indoor tanning is not the same for everyone; it requires careful consideration of your skin’s needs.

Exfoliation and Hydration Strategies

To ensure your glow is nothing short of flawless, here’s how to love on your skin and make every moment in that tanning bed count:

  1. Exfoliate Gently: Grab your favorite scrub and get to work—gently. You’re not sanding a deck, you’re treating your skin like the treasure it is.
  2. Moisturize Wisely: Post-exfoliation, your skin’s begging for moisture. Choose a light, non-oil based moisturizer that won’t clog your freshly smoothed pores.
  3. Hydration Inside Out: Drink water like it’s your job. Hydrated skin tans better and holds that color longer, trust me.
  4. Bare It All: Makeup, perfumes, oils—they’re your tan’s frenemies. Strip down to your bare, beautiful skin to ensure that tanning bed session works its magic evenly.

Don’t just prepare for a tanning session; plan for the afterparty. Extend the life of your tan with tan extenders and skin care products that keep you moisturized and radiant. Because you deserve a tan that lasts as long as your summer fling.

Stay hydrated, stay glowing, and rock that bronzed bod like the sun-kissed goddess you are.

Tanning Bed Lotion Selection

To achieve a great tan in a tanning bed, it’s important to choose the right lotion. After preparing your skin, you can book your tanning bed appointments and enjoy the UV lights that will enhance your color.

The lotion you use can make or break your glow-up. So let’s get personal and find that perfect match for your tanning routine.

Type of LotionBenefitBest For
BronzingInstant color, stimulates melaninThose craving immediate results
TingleIncreases blood flow, faster tanningThe experienced, thrill-seekers
Tan ExtenderKeeps skin moisturized, prolongs tanPost-tanning maintenance

Tanning lotion is your secret weapon to create a barrier that amplifies the effects of each session. Don’t settle for less – apply tanning lotion that’s tailored to your skin’s needs. Remember, skip the SPF in this scenario; we’re not blocking those rays, we’re embracing them in a controlled hug.

Choose wisely. Go for lotions made for the types of tanning beds that you’ll be cozying up with. And after, keep your skin quenched with a tan extender. The right lotion whispers sweet nothings to your skin, making every session count. Keep it lush, keep it luxe, and watch your tan thrive.

During-the-Session Protocols

Slathering on that indoor tanning lotion evenly is your first step to rocking a sun-kissed look as you step into the tanning bed’s embrace. Feel the warmth as you settle in, the UV rays ready to kiss your skin in this controlled environment.

Make sure you’re ticking all the boxes for a flawless glow:

  1. Even Application: Before you even dream of entering the tanning realm, make sure to exfoliate and smooth on that lotion like butter on warm toast. You want an even tan, not a patchy memoir of neglect.
  2. Eyewear is Key: Pop on that eye protection like it’s your favorite pair of sunnies. Your peepers need shielding from the UV love, trust me.
  3. Bare it All (Or Not): To avoid those pesky tan lines, dare to bare. But if modesty calls, cover those rarely sun-kissed places with a wink and a smile.
  4. FDA Rules, Baby: Follow the 24-hour tanning policy for that optimal tan development. Patience is a virtue, even in the pursuit of bronzed perfection.

Post-Tanning Skin Care

After using the tanning bed, it’s important to take care of your skin to maintain your tan. The key is to keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Also, apply a moisturizer that is hydrating and oil-free to keep your skin soft and make your tan last.

Now listen, your skin’s had a lot of sun, so take it easy for the next 24 hours. No extra sunbathing, no more tanning bed winks – you’ve got to play hard to get with those rays. And when you do step out, treat your lips like the treasures they are; swipe on that lip balm with SPF.

Don’t forget, a little bit of care goes a long way. Use those tan-extending products religiously to keep your glow going strong. And keep your face free of makeup post-tan; let your skin breathe and soak up all the good stuff. Follow these steps, and you’ll not only rock that tan but you’ll also adore the skin you’re in!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Put on My Skin Before Tanning Bed?

Before slipping into that tanning bed, give your skin some TLC! Exfoliate to slough off the old and make way for the new.

Smooth on a light, non-oily moisturizer to keep things supple.

Ditch the makeup and perfume—they’re no friends of the tan!

And, your lips need love too, so swipe on some SPF balm.

You’re set to glow, so enjoy that warm embrace and rock that radiant look!

How Do I Prepare My Skin for a Sunbed?

Before a sunbed session, prepare your skin like you would a canvas for a masterpiece. Start by gently exfoliating to remove dead cells and then shave to ensure an even tan.

Lather on moisturizer to protect and hydrate. Don’t forget to strip off makeup and jewelry, making you bare and ready.

After, seal the deal with a tan-extender to cherish that golden glow. It’s your secret ritual for that perfect sun-kissed art.

How Can I Maximize My Tanning Bed Results?

To maximize your tanning bed results, you’ve gotta exfoliate beforehand to score that even glow.

Don’t skimp on the SPF lip balm; your lips deserve protection, too.

Rock your fav swimwear or dare to bare—it’s all you

And after, treat your skin right with a tan-extender to keep that sun-kissed look going strong.

Trust, these tips will amp up your tan game like no other.

What Happens if You Don’t Exfoliate Before Tanning Bed?

Skipping the exfoliation step before hitting the tanning bed is like entering a race with weights on your feet; you’re setting yourself up for a patchy finish. You’ll end up with a tan that’s as uneven as a quilt stitched in the dark, and it’ll slip away faster than a dream at dawn.

If you skip exfoliating before using a tanning bed, your tan will be uneven and won’t last long.

Plus, those neglected pores might just throw a blemish party in protest. Treat your skin right to keep that glow smooth and lasting.