Itchy skin after using a tanning bed is quite common but can be annoying. Tanning beds are used to get that dark tan faster without being exposed to the sun for a long period of hours.
But the bulbs used in tanning beds also generate UV rays to help you to get that perfect bronzed look. The UV rays can cause sunburn, rashes, and itchy skin.
Today I will let you understand the cause of those itchy rashes and how to get rid of itchy skin after tanning bed.
What Causes Itchy Tanning Bed Rash?
There are several reasons other than an allergic reaction to the tanning beds that can lead to itchy bed rashes.
Overexposure to the Uv Rays
Your skin cells cannot deal with overexposure to UV rays and thus, get damaged. This causes rashes after using a tanning bed that can be itchy as well.
Allergy
Allergic reactions can happen if your skin comes in contact with different products used to clean the tanning bed after use. Otherwise allergic reactions to the tanning beds are not very common.
Dry Scaly Skin
Going for a tanning bed with dry skin can cause bumps, scaly patches, and itchy rashes. This is because the tanning lamps absorb the moisture from your skin when used.
How to Identify a Tanning Bed Rash and How Long Does the Itching Last?
You cannot ignore those itchy tanning bed rashes. It can be seen on any part of your body after using a tanning bed.
You can easily notice white or red itchy bumps that can be very uncomfortable.
If you avoid going out in the sun or into the tanning bed then, you can easily get rid of those itchy bumps within a week.
Never scratch those bumps as it could lead to infection. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice pus or have a fever.
Home Remedies to Get Rid of Itchy Skin After Tanning Bed
The itching caused by those bumps and hives can be disastrous. You can often get relief by following some homemade natural remedies. So let us talk about a few of them.
Stop Getting Tan
When you notice those itchy rashes and bumps on your skin then, it is best to stop getting tan further.
To treat your itchy skin do not go out in the sun for long and also avoid using tanning beds. This is because your itchy skin needs plenty of time to get healed.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Spending hours in the sun can increase those rashes as your skin will soak more UV rays.
So, it is advisable to avoid overexposure to the sun and the tanning beds. Also, use sunscreen with SPF 30 and cover your body if you need to go out for long.
Stay in Cool Places
Staying in a cool environment can be effective for your skin rashes. It will help you to get rid of those itchy bumps faster.
To avoid your skin from overheating reduce physical activities and exercises.
Use Aloe Vera
Applying aloe Vera to your itchy rashes can be quite effective. It will soothe your skin and help you to get rid of those itchy bumps in no time.
If you have itchy rashes due to any allergic reaction then, you can use antihistamine cream easily available in the market.
Cold Compress
Scratching those itchy rashes can cause infection. So, to reduce the itchiness you can try out a cold compress.
Soak a clean cloth in cold water and remove the excess water. Now apply it to the affected area to get instant relief.
Use Oatmeal
Grind some raw oatmeal and mix it in cold water. Now soak your body in the water for few minutes to get rid of the itchy rashes. You can also apply oatmeal to the affected areas after cooking it.
Warm Bath
To treat those itchy bumps you can mix colloidal oatmeal with lukewarm water and take a bath with it.
Also Read: Tanning Bed Vs Spray Tan: Which One Is Best
Ways to Stop Itching From Tanning Beds
Here are some tips you may follow to avoid itching caused by the rashes.
- To keep your skin hydrated it is very important to drink a lot of water and apply a good lotion before using the tanning beds.
- Always choose to go to a salon that is well-maintained.
- To protect your nipples from getting exposed to the UV rays in a tanning bed always use nipple covers.
- After getting from the tanning bed try to avoid going out in the sun for a day or two.
- Before lying down on a bed do not forget to clean and wipe the tanning bed with hypoallergenic wipes.
A tanning bed can be easy to use if you maintain your skin before and after the session.
By following the natural remedies you can easily get rid of those itchy bumps and rashes.
Overexposure to UV rays can cause skin burn and skin cancer. So, using tanning lotion can be a good alternative to tanning beds.
