Q&A for How to Use a Tanning Bed

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  • Question
    Can I go to a tanning salon if I have skin cancer?
    Community Answer
    No. Tanning while having skin cancer is detrimental to your skin, as tanning is a major cause for skin cancer. It's a lot like smoking while you have lung cancer. Since you clearly have skin that is prone to skin cancer, you really should avoid using tanning beds for the rest of your life.
  • Question
    Should I take off my make up before going on a tanning bed?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Some cosmetics can cause adverse reactions on your skin if they're exposed to heightened UV rays.
  • Question
    How often do you have to tan in order to see an effect?
    Community Answer
    The time needed in order to see a visible tan varies with everyone. Those with paler complexions will tan more slowly, and those with darker skin will tan at a faster rate due to the melanin production in their DNA. Overall, just try to tan at a slow but gradual rate. It may take some time, but it is safer and looks more natural.
  • Question
    Where can I get the eye goggles?
    Community Answer
    Normally, they will be provided by the tanning salon. Some places may have disposable eye stickers that act as goggles instead. Just ask at the receptionist, they will be sure to have something for you!
  • Question
    How many times can I go tanning in a week?
    Community Answer
    2 - 3 times per week, and it's advised that you wait 36 - 48 hours between sessions.
  • Question
    Should I wear makeup in a tanning bed?
    Community Answer
    Makeup can prevent your face from tanning or cause uneven tanning. It can also cause an allergic reaction from the combination of heat and makeup. It's best to tan with a clean face or with a light sunscreen if you use it.
  • Question
    Do I put on tanning lotion before or after I tan?
    Community Answer
    Before. There are ingredients in the lotion to help boost your exposure. Use a moisturizer or tan extender after.
  • Question
    Do I have to wear a bikini in a tanning bed, can't I wear a 1-piece suit?
    Community Answer
    You can, it all depends on where you want your tan lines to be.
  • Question
    What if I get sunburned? What do I do?
    Community Answer
    If you are sunburned using a tanning bed, the operator of the device is incompetent. Do not return to the tanning bed until the sunburn is healed and it is important to see a doctor for help, as this can be quite serious. Consider switching salons if you continue using a tanning bed and you might want to follow up the practices of the salon where you were burned, to ensure that nobody else experiences this.
  • Question
    Do I stay on my back while tanning or should I flip halfway through the tan?
    Community Answer
    I do flip on my back and both sides the last 6 minutes of the tanning session at 2 minute intervals. I find that if I don't, I get an untanned streak on my sides.
  • Question
    Do I use any lotion or oils?
    Community Answer
    Yes, use coconut oil, and tanning lotion. Take care of your skin and realize that tanning beds aren't the best for your skin.
  • Question
    Can I tan with a cooking burn?
    Community Answer
    No, your skin should not have any burns while tanning, as burnt skin is very delicate I'd wait for your skin to heal.
  • Question
    Can I put on sunscreen before I use the tanning bed?
    Community Answer
    It depends on the sunscreen. Ask the receptionist at the salon to be safe.
  • Question
    Am I allowed to bring someone into the room with me if I'm paranoid, like a significant other?
    Community Answer
    No, they might think you're doing something naughty in there. And they don't want you to disturb the other customers.
  • Question
    Regarding moisturizing prior to using the tanning bed, do I have to use a lotion specifically made for tanning, or can I use a regular body lotion?
    Community Answer
    Using a lotion to moisturize is always a great idea for after you shower/tan, but I would suggest a primer to use instead of a lotion before using a tanning beds. You can buy this where you buy tanning lotion. A primer preps your skin better for UV exposure and allows you to tan more deeply (and evenly). The primer is applied under your tanning lotion, (so to answer your question, it is always best to use a TANNING lotion, because you're more likely to get the results that you want). A primer can also be used if you're ever interested in sunless tanning.
  • Question
    Do people go in naked?
    ALAHNA BENSINGER
    Community Answer
    Sometimes, some salons do not care about your preference, while others set rules against going nude. If you do choose to go in naked, they will most likely give you wash cloths or hand towels to cover up your breasts/nipples, and your genitals, as these are sensitive areas that can get damaged if they are exposed to too many UV rays.
  • Question
    Can I be naked in the tanning bed?
    Top Answerer
    It depends. Some places permit it, other's don't. If you choose to, apply plenty of moisturiser to sensitive areas.
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