Understanding Tanning Beds
What are UVA and UVB Rays?
The rays that are the most damaging to our skin are Ultraviolet (UV) rays. There are two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. Understanding the difference between UVA and UVB rays is crucial for a safe and effective tanning experience.
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, causing immediate tanning and longer-lasting results. They also cause premature skin ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer.
UVB rays affect the skin's surface, stimulating melanin production and causing sunburn. They also increase the risk of skin cancer.
Types of Tanning Beds
- Low-pressure tanning beds emit a combination of UVA and UVB rays, providing a gradual tan over multiple sessions.
- High-pressure tanning beds primarily emit UVA rays, resulting in a quicker tan with fewer sessions.
- Stand-up tanning beds offer a vertical tanning experience, allowing for full-body exposure to UV radiation.
Preparing for Your Tanning Session
Know Your Skin Type
Before starting your tanning journey, it is crucial to determine your skin type and how well your skin reacts to UV rays.
This is crucial when choosing the right tanning bed type and which indoor tanning lotion will work best for optimal results.
If you have fair skin, it may require more caution and lower UV exposure to avoid the risks of burning.
Understanding your skin type is essential for achieving an even tan safely.
Choosing the Right Tanning Lotion
- Select a tanning lotion designed for indoor tanning to enhance the skin's natural melanin production and moisturise it.
- Determine your skin type; if you have sensitive skin, opt for hypoallergenic tanning lotions to prevent skin irritation. A staff favourite is the ProTan Hypoallergenic Tanning Accelerator.
- Avoid using oil-based products before tanning to prevent skin irritation.
- Choose a lotion that suits your skin type and tanning goals.
Using the Tanning Bed Safely
Proper Positioning in the Tanning Bed
Lie-down sunbeds are designed for the user to lie down and be comfortable. Lie down evenly on the tanning bed, ensuring all parts of the body are uniformly exposed to UV rays. Avoid crossing your arms or legs to prevent uneven tan lines.
Stand-up beds ensure an even tan all over, reaching areas of the skin that lay-down beds cannot, such as under the arms and the pressure points in the lower back.
Use protective eye wear and keep your eyes closed. You can purchase reusable eye wear or disposable protection from your tanning salon.
Wearing Protective eye wear
Shield your eyes from UV rays by wearing protective eye wear with every tanning session. Closing the eyes without protection will not protect them from UV rays and can lead to eye damage, such as dry eyes and cataracts.
Ensure the protective eye wear (goggles or disposable wink ease) provides full coverage and fits snugly against your skin.
Wear protective eyewear and keep your eyes closed for the whole tanning session.
Understanding Exposure Time
If you are new to tanning, start with shorter sessions, gradually increasing as your skin becomes more tolerant to the UV.
Remember to follow the recommended exposure time that is suitable for your skin type and the tanning goals you want to achieve.
If you are still determining what session time will suit your skin type, consult the tanning consultants in your salon for advice and guidance.
Be aware of the risks associated with overexposure to UV radiation.
Maximising Your Tan
Tips for an Even Tan
Here are our top tips to achieve an even tan:
- Exfoliate your skin before tanning to remove dead skin cells and promote a smooth, even tan.
- Use a tanning lotion specifically designed for indoor tanning to enhance melanin production.
- Avoid wearing makeup to prevent skin irritation.
- Remove jewellery before your tanning session to prevent irritation and uneven tan lines.
Can Showering Affect Your Sunbed Tan?
At MEGATAN, we recommend showering before your tanning session, as this will create a clean canvas and open your pores.
Wait up to 4 hours after your tanning session before showering to maximise melanin production and allow your tanning lotions to absorb fully into the skin.
Keep your skin hydrated and your tan lasting longer by moisturising after showering. We recommend using a tan-extending moisturiser daily to prolong your tan result and keep your skin hydrated.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Hydrating Your Skin Post-Tanning
- Moisturise your skin after showering to keep it hydrated and prolong your tan.
- Use a moisturiser specifically designed for post-tanning to enhance melanin production.
- Avoid using harsh products that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
Maintaining Your Tan with Gradual Tan Enhancers
- Use a gradual tan enhancer to maintain your tan, prevent it from fading, and attain your sun-kissed glow.
- Choose a product that suits your skin type and tanning goals.
- Apply the product regularly to keep your skin hydrated and your tan looking its best.
Safety and Precautions
Safety First: Be Aware of the Risks Associated with Tanning Beds
- Be aware of the risks of tanning beds, including skin cancer and premature ageing.
- Follow the recommended exposure time and guidelines for safe tanning.
- Wear protective eye wear during your tanning session to shield your eyes from UV radiation.
Cocktail Tanning: Combining Tanning Bed and Self-Tanning Products
A top tip is to consider combining your tanning bed sessions with self-tanning products for a deeper, darker, longer-lasting tan.
Using self-tanning products will not only achieve the colour you have achieved from tanning beds but will also keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.
Follow the recommended guidelines for safe and effective cocktail tanning.
