The Best Way to Tan in a Tanning Bed

Tanning beds are one of the hottest trends around. The most common tanning method is using a lay-down tanning bed. When using a lay-down bed, you open the cover of the bed, lie down and then close the lid so your body is enclosed and lit from all sides, both front and back.

Positions

When tanning in a tanning bed, you are surrounded by UV light on all sides of you. The only areas that are not covering all of your body are the sides of the bed that hinge open and close. To make sure your entire body is tanned evenly, it's important to rotate your body through your tanning session. Begin by lying on your back. Midway through the session, roll to your side so both sides of your body have a chance to tan. In your next tanning session, begin face down and then rotate halfway through your session to your other side. By using these positioning techniques you will receive a full and even tan.

Coverage

To get the best tan coverage, it's a good idea to try to tan with similar wardrobe each time. Most seasoned tanners go naked so their entire body is tanned. If you choose to wear clothing such as undergarments or a swimsuit, try to use the same items each time so you have consistent coverage and your tan lines remain the same. By changing items each time, your tan will develop unevenly and may appear fake.

Develop a Base Tan

Start your tanning by developing a base tan. A base tan is the process of building your initial tan, which typically takes six to eight sessions to build. Depending on your skin type and complexion each session should take 6 to 10 minutes. These sessions should occur within 24 to 48 hours apart, and the sessions should start slowly so you don't burn your skin. Once you have developed your base tan, the amount of times you need to tan each week will decrease. This stage is referred to as "maintenance" and takes only a couple times a week.

Bronzers and Accelerators

To get the best tan for your money, consider buying a bronzer or tanning accelerator lotion. These lotions are designed with self-tanning ingredients that activate with the UV rays from the tanning bed. They enhance the depth of your tan and accelerate the amount of time it takes to develop an even base tan.

References

• Tanning Information Center