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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Question

Can I be naked in the tanning bed?

Ruby

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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