Using tanning beds is the fastest way to get that glowing tanned look. So, most tanning salons in the US are providing tanning services by using tanning beds. You can easily get tan at any time of the year and even during those cloudy winter days when the sun is not out.
However, people often wonder about how long a tanning bed tan lasts. Like sun tanning or using any other fake tanners, your tan will gradually fade away after some time even if you are using it to get tan.
To get that perfect, even tan you need to get tan every other day for 6 sessions. It is always advisable to go slow while using a tanning bed. Your session will be 3 to 4 minutes when you are using it for the first time. After a few sessions, you can increase your tanning bed session up to 12 to 15 minutes.
Always remember rushing through things can cause severe burns to your skin. So, always go slow and easy.
I suggest my clients visit some of the best tanning salons to get a tan using tanning beds if they are not very sure about using one at home. To know more about some of the best tanning beds and their cost you can check out my post on how much does a tanning bed cost?
In this article, I will let you know how long does a tanning bed tan last and what makes your tan last longer. So, go through the post thoroughly.
How Long Should You Stay in a Tanning Bed?
Your tan will fade away gradually even if you are using these beds to get tan. As our skin exfoliates naturally it will remove your tan along with it.
My clients and friends often ask me how long they should stay in a tanning bed to make their tan last longer.
The type of tanning bed you are using also plays an important role in determining how long will your tan last. Using a high-pressure bed can make your tan last for about a month whereas using a low-pressure bed will last for 7 to 10 days.
As there is a gap after a tanning bed session so, your skin does not get exposed to harmful UV rays frequently like sun tanning.
What Makes Your Tan Last Longer?
Here are some useful tips that can help you to make your tan last longer if using a tanning bed.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating your skin before your tanning bed session is very important. Exfoliating will remove the dead skin cells thus, the UV rays can easily penetrate your skin and help you achieve that dark, even tan.
Moisturizing Your Skin
Using a good moisturizer before and after using this bed is important. The results will be better if your skin is healthy and hydrated.
Also, drink an adequate amount of water to keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out.
Apply a Tanning Accelerator or a Sun Bed Cream
As the name suggests tanning accelerators increase melanin production and thus, can be a good option to use before using tanning beds. You can also use sunbed creams to get that dark tan faster.
To know more about some of the best tanning accelerators go through my article on best tan accelerators for outdoor tanning
Remove Makeup
Cosmetic and makeup products can be a barrier when using tanning beds. Using these products before your tanning session can block the UV rays from penetrating your skin properly. So, always remove your makeup before using a tanning bed.
Go for Foods That Accelerate the Tanning
Research has shown that consuming fruits and vegetables that are yellow and orange in color can make your skin tan naturally.
You can choose foods like mangos, spinach, carrots, apricots, and tomatoes to stimulate the natural tanning process of your skin. These fruits and vegetables also increase collagen production and thus, prevent premature aging.
Do Not Shave or Wax After the Tanning Session
Waxing, shaving, or exfoliation after your tanning bed session can remove the top layer of your tanned skin.
So, it is always suggested not to wax, shave or exfoliate after tanning. However, exfoliating before tanning is always recommended.
Precaution to Be Taken
Although tanning beds can help you to get that dark, glowing tan faster but, overusing can cause skin cancer (melanoma). People who are on medications should consult their doctor before using these beds to avoid any harmful reactions.
Pregnant women and women who are nursing should always avoid using tanning beds. Always take proper protection and use protective goggles before going for your tanning session.
Conclusion
Using tanning beds can be a convenient option for those who do not have much time to spend outdoors. However proper precaution is very important to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
If proper care is taken before and after a tanning bed session then, you can make your tan last longer. The longevity of your tan also depends on the type of beds you are using.
FAQ
The longevity of your tan mostly depends on the type of skin you have and the type of tanning bed you are using. Using a high-pressure bed can make your tan last longer whereas, using a low-pressure bed will make your tan fade away faster.
The European standard suggests not using more than 60 sessions per annum. So, 2 to 3 tanning bed sessions in a week can be safe. However, you need to keep a gap of 24 to 48 hours before going for the next session. Always be easy and slow while using these beds to get that perfect result without any harmful side effects.
