Understanding the Tanning Process
What is the Science of Tanning?
This table explains the tanning process, the role of UV rays, and factors influencing tanning.
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Tanning is your body’s natural response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
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When exposed to UV rays, your skin triggers melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin colour.
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Sunbeds primarily emit UVA rays, with a small amount of UVB, to stimulate melanin production and create a tanning effect.
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The tanning process is gradual and depends on your skin type.
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Understanding the tanning process is crucial to achieving a safe and beautiful tan.
Preparing for Your Tanning Sessions
How to Prepare Your Skin for Tanning
This table outlines steps to prepare your skin for safe and effective tanning.
Follow our tips to prepare your skin for tanning:
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Start by exfoliating your skin to remove dead skin cells and ensure an even tan.
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Moisturise your skin to keep it hydrated and healthy.
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Avoid waxing body hair to reduce irritation
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Remove makeup and lotions before tanning to ensure even UV absorption and reduce irritation.
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Consider your skin type and adjust your tanning plan accordingly.
Tanning Sessions and Frequency
This table provides recommendations for tanning session frequency and duration.
How Often Should I Tan?
We recommend beginning with short sessions (3-5 minutes) and gradually increasing session times as your skin becomes more tolerant to tanning.
Always allow at least 48 hours between your sessions to allow your skin time to recover and reduce the risk of burning.
Begin with two to three sessions a week to build up your base tan, and adjust the tanning frequency based on your skin type and tanning progress.
Alternate between different sunbeds, such as stand-up and lay-down beds, to ensure an even tan throughout.
Consistency is key to maintaining a healthy and safe tan. Be patient and do not rush the process to avoid burns and irritation.
Tips for Responsible Sunbed Use
Staying Safe During Tanning Sessions
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Wear eye protection either goggles or wink ease to prevent UV damage to your eyes. Your tanning salon will provide eye protection.
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Use sun cream every day to protect your skin from UV rays.
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Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and after tanning.
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Avoid using tanning beds if you have a history of skin cancer, are pregnant, or have open wounds or sunburn.
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Never exceed the recommended tanning time for your skin type.
Achieving a Base Tan
How Many Sunbeds to Get a Base Tan?
How long does it take to tan? Consider your skin type and how it reacts to UV rays to plan out your tanning sessions and build a base tan quickly and safely.
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Typically, 3-5 sunbed sessions are needed to start seeing results, with lighter skin types requiring additional sessions for a deeper tan.
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Skin type and tanning process are crucial factors to consider when planning your tanning sessions.
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Building a base tan requires regular sunbed sessions, with a minimum of 48 hours between sessions, to reduce the risks of burning and overexposure.
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Planning your sunbed sessions within 2 days of each other boosts your tanning progress and maximises your tanning potential.
Post-Tanning Care
Post-Tanning Care This table offers tips for maintaining your tan and keeping your skin healthy.
Prolonging Your Glow
Once you have achieved your tanned result, maintain aftercare to prolong your tan.
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Use a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated, feel silky soft and have a healthy glow.
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Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin cells and maintain an even tan.
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Use tan accelerators with each tanning session, incorporating different products like bronzers and tingles for a deeper, darker tan.
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Use a tan extender to prolong your tan and keep your skin looking healthy
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Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support skin health and tanning.
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Stay consistent with your sessions to maintain a healthy and safe tan.
Common Questions Answered
How Quickly Will I Tan on a Sunbed?
The speed of tanning varies by skin type, but most people start to see results after 3-5 sessions. Tan accelerators, which contain active ingredients to stimulate melanin production in the skin, can help speed up the tanning process.
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Lighter skin types may take longer to achieve a deeper tan, so it is essential to be patient and consistent with sunbed sessions to build up a tan safely gradually.
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Brown and light brown skin tend to tan faster than fair skin types.
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The number of sunbed sessions needed to achieve a base tan depends on individual skin types and tanning progress.
Conclusion
Get a Safe and Beautiful Tan
Achieving a base tan takes time, patience, and a commitment to skin safety. Avoid rushing the process to reduce the risks of burning and overexposure to UV rays.
Understanding your skin type is crucial to achieving a safe and beautiful tan.
Use a sunbed along with tanning accelerators that contain active ingredients such as Tyrosine and Carrot oil to speed up the process without having to use a sunbed as frequently. We recommend the Supre Tan Go To Black Dark Maximizer to take you several shades darker in just one sunbed session. 
Follow these tips and guidelines to get a safe and beautiful tan that lasts all year.
