How to Use Sunbed Tanning Lotion Properly

Hello gorgeous tanners! Jessie-Lee here, your tanning expert and Salon Manager at MEGATAN. If you're looking to achieve that stunning, even, and long-lasting tan from your sunbed sessions, then you've come to the right place. Sunbed tanning lotions aren't just a nice-to-have; they're an absolute game-changer. They accelerate your tan, moisturise your skin, and protect it during your session. But how exactly do you use them properly? Let's dive in!

Why Sunbed Tanning Lotion is Your Best Friend

First things first, let's understand why sunbed lotions are so crucial. Unlike outdoor tanning, where the sun's rays are less controlled, sunbeds deliver a concentrated dose of UV light. Your skin needs a little extra love and preparation to make the most of this. Tanning lotions for sunbeds are specifically formulated to:

• Accelerate your tan: Ingredients like Tyrosine stimulate melanin production, helping you get darker, faster.
• Moisturise your skin: Hydrated skin tans better and holds a tan for longer. Dry skin can reflect UV rays and lead to patchy results.
• Prevent 'tanning odour': Many lotions contain ingredients to combat that post-tanning smell.
• Nourish your skin: Vitamins, antioxidants, and skin-firming ingredients keep your skin healthy and glowing.
• Enhance your colour: Bronzers and tingle lotions give you an immediate boost or a deeper, more intense colour.

Remember, sunbed lotions are NOT the same as outdoor sunscreens. Sunscreens contain SPF (Sun Protection Factor) which blocks UV rays. Sunbed lotions are designed to enhance them, not block them. Never use outdoor sunscreen on a sunbed!

Choosing the Right Sunbed Tanning Lotion for You

This is where it gets exciting! There's a lotion for everyone, depending on your skin type, tanning goals, and preference. Let's break down the main types you'll find at MEGATAN.

Accelerators (No Bronzer)

Perfect for beginners or those who prefer a natural, gradual tan without any cosmetic colour. These lotions focus purely on stimulating melanin production and moisturising.

• Power Tan Outer Dark Face Maximiser (£12.49): A fantastic facial tanning accelerator. It's bronzer-free, vegan, and has a refreshing watermelon crush scent. Hydrates delicate facial skin to help develop a natural facial colour. Ideal for all skin types.

Bronzers (DHA and/or Cosmetic)

Bronzers give you an immediate colour boost. Cosmetic bronzers provide instant, wash-off colour, while DHA bronzers develop a deeper, longer-lasting tan over a few hours after your session. Always wash your hands immediately after applying DHA bronzers to avoid orange palms!

• Power Tan Non-Stop Black Bronzing Butter (DHA Free) (£20): A hybrid UV sunbed tanning accelerator that's DHA-free. It uses exclusive bronzing agents and emollients for a streak-free, natural-looking tan. Contains Algotan P to support the tanning process and comes in a 250ml bottle.
• Soleo Sexy Carrot Bronzer (£10): A hybrid bronzer that delivers an immediate bronzing effect and supports the tanning process with carrot-derived ingredients. Get a deep, golden tan with this 125ml tube.
• Seven Suns Tan Thrill White Bronzer (£25.2): This white bronzer gives instant cosmetic colour and a deeper tan over time thanks to DHA. It's formulated with skincare actives for comfort and hydration.

Tingle Lotions

These are for experienced tanners only! Tingle lotions increase microcirculation and oxygenation to the skin, intensifying your tan and giving a 'sizzling' or warming sensation. Always patch test first!

• ProTan Beaches & Créme Sizzling Butter (£15.97): A tingling accelerator designed for a deep, red-hot tan. It also nourishes the skin with its ultra-rich body butter texture, providing intense hydration.
• Synergy Tan Cherry Me Black Bronzing Accelerator (£22): A hot bronzing accelerator with a tingling sensation and a sunless tanning component. Infused with cherry, grapes, fig, and Kakadu Plum, it's designed to enhance your tan.

Hybrid / Wellness Accelerators

These lotions combine tanning acceleration with advanced skincare benefits, focusing on skin wellness and often including instant bronzers for a luxurious experience.

• Seven Suns Bronze Delight Tanning Pudding (£25.2): A double-action accelerator with instant bronzers in a creamy pudding texture. It delivers an immediate chocolate-toned glow while deeply hydrating and nourishing the skin. Fast-absorbing and with a pleasant fragrance.

How to Apply Sunbed Tanning Lotion: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now for the practical part! Proper application is key to an even, streak-free, and beautiful tan.

Step 1: Shower and Exfoliate (24 Hours Before)

For the best results, shower and exfoliate your skin 24 hours before your sunbed session. This removes dead skin cells, creating a smooth canvas for an even tan. Pay attention to drier areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

Step 2: Hydrate Your Skin

Moisturise daily in the days leading up to your session. Hydrated skin absorbs UV light more effectively, leading to a deeper, longer-lasting tan. Just make sure your skin is dry and free of any moisturisers immediately before applying your tanning lotion for the sunbed.

Step 3: Patch Test (Especially for Tingle Lotions)

If you're using a new lotion, especially a tingle product like ProTan Beaches & Créme Sizzling Butter or Synergy Tan Cherry Me Black Bronzing Accelerator, always do a patch test 24 hours beforehand. Apply a small amount to an inconspicuous area (like your inner arm) to check for any adverse reactions.

Step 4: Apply Your Lotion Evenly (Just Before Your Session)

Right before you step into the sunbed, apply your chosen lotion generously and evenly over your entire body. Think of it like applying moisturiser: use circular motions to ensure full coverage. Don't forget those often-missed spots like your sides, inner arms, and the tops of your feet. For your face, use a dedicated facial maximiser like Power Tan Outer Dark Face Maximiser.

• Use enough product: Don't skimp! A thin layer won't give you the full benefits.
• Blend thoroughly: Ensure there are no missed spots or streaks, especially with bronzing lotions.
• Wash your hands: Crucial after applying bronzing lotions to avoid stained palms.

Step 5: Protect Your Eyes and Lips

Always wear eye protection goggles during your sunbed session. Your eyelids are not enough! And don't forget your lips – a good quality SPF lip balm is essential, or you can use a product like Malibu Clear All Day Protection Spray SPF 20, though it's primarily for body and scalp, a dab on the lips can offer some protection.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Session!

Now you're ready! Step into the sunbed, relax, and let your amazing lotion do its work. Remember to follow the recommended tanning times for your skin type.

After Your Sunbed Session: Maintain Your Glow

Your work isn't over once you step out of the sunbed. To prolong your beautiful tan and keep your skin healthy:

• Wait to shower: If you've used a DHA bronzer, wait at least 4-6 hours before showering to allow the tan to develop fully. With tingle lotions, the sensation can sometimes intensify after the session, so a cool shower is often welcome.
• Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise: Daily hydration is your tan's best friend. Use a good quality after-tan moisturiser to keep your skin supple and prevent peeling. This is where products like Seven Suns Bronze Delight Tanning Pudding, though an accelerator, also offers deep hydration, making it a great option for skin health.
• Consider a tan extender: These products often contain a small amount of DHA to gradually deepen and prolong your tan.

For a touch of radiance between sessions, or just to enhance your glow, consider a product like 2bTanned Glow Drip - VIP Bronze (£15). This shimmering body lotion delivers a radiant, wet-look glow for face and body with light-reflecting particles and a hydrating base, complete with a lovely coconut fragrance.

Safety First, Always!

At MEGATAN, your skin health is our top priority. Always remember these golden rules:

• Never exceed recommended tanning times.
• Always wear eye protection.
• Do not use sunbed lotions as a substitute for SPF outdoors.
• If you have sensitive skin or any skin conditions, consult your GP before tanning.
• Listen to your skin; if it feels uncomfortable or irritated, stop your session.

Using sunbed tanning lotion properly is the secret to unlocking your best, most radiant tan. By choosing the right product for your needs and following these application steps, you'll be glowing confidently in no time. Happy tanning, lovelies!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use outdoor tanning oil on a sunbed? A: Absolutely not! Outdoor tanning oils often contain SPF which blocks UV rays, making them ineffective for sunbeds. More importantly, they can damage the acrylic screens of the sunbed, leading to costly repairs and potentially unsafe conditions. Always use lotions specifically designed for indoor tanning.

Q: How much sunbed lotion should I use? A: You should apply enough to cover your entire body evenly, just as you would a regular body lotion. Don't be shy with it! A good rule of thumb is about a palm-sized amount for each main body section (torso, each leg, each arm).

Q: Do I need a different lotion for my face? A: Yes, it's highly recommended! Facial skin is more delicate and prone to wrinkles. Dedicated facial tanning lotions like Power Tan Outer Dark Face Maximiser are formulated to be non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and contain extra hydrating and anti-ageing ingredients to protect and nourish your face while tanning.

Q: What's the difference between a bronzer and an accelerator? A: An accelerator primarily uses ingredients like Tyrosine to stimulate your skin's natural melanin production, helping you tan faster and deeper. A bronzer, on the other hand, contains cosmetic dyes (for instant colour) and/or DHA (which reacts with amino acids in your skin to create a delayed, deeper tan) to give you an immediate or enhanced colour boost.

Q: How long does sunbed lotion last once opened? A: Generally, most tanning lotions are best used within 12-18 months of opening. Check the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol on the packaging, which looks like an open jar with a number and 'M' (e.g., '12M' means 12 months). Store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its effectiveness.

Q: Can I skip lotion if I'm only doing a short sunbed session? A: While you certainly can, it's not advisable if you want the best results and skin health. Even short sessions benefit immensely from the hydration, acceleration, and skin nourishment that a good sunbed lotion provides. It helps you get more out of every minute and keeps your skin in tip-top condition.