How to Use a Tanning Bed

People use a tanning bed for various reasons. One of them is to get a good tan so as to look attractive. They also use it to even-out their tan lines, to get relief from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or to establish a base tan so that they don't look like a ghost when wearing a speedo or bikini. They are new innovations that give you a tan without actually having to sunbath. But before using them, you need to know few basic facts about using one.

Using a Tanning Bed

The first and foremost thing is to inquire everything about the tanning beds from local tanning salons. You will realize that there are different types of these beds available. They are:

• Low pressure tanning beds in which UV rays emitted are almost similar to natural sunlight. If you burn easily, these aren't recommended.
• High pressure tanning beds that emit higher proportion of UVA rays than UVB rays which cause sunburn.
• Booth, a vertical tanning bed, in which you stand and get tanned.
• Whole body spray, the least harmful way in which different sprays are sprayed over the body. They darken the skin by a chemical reaction.

Skin Analysis
Get your skin checked by filling out a skin analysis form in any salon. All the decent salons do it and it takes only a minute to do so. This is important to decide what type of skin you have and the type of tanning bed you should use.

Buy Goggles
Whether you are using a tanning bed at home or going for a salon, make sure to carry goggles and wear them all the time. The UVA and UVB light from the tanning lamps can cause cataracts.

Use Tanning Lotion
Ask the attendant for the tanning lotion to be used. They will provide you with the appropriate lotion. If using your own tanning bed at home, get a tanning lotion for yourself after getting a skin analysis test. Apply the lotion all over the body except the face, as applying it on face may cause acne.

Tie up Your Hair and Dress to Minimum
Tie you hair up if they are long with the help of a hair tie. It's because when the fan starts, hair may come in its way and cause weird tan lines.

You can have your underwear on while inside tanning bed but then, you won't have an even tan over the body. If you wish to have an even dark tan all over, get naked and get inside it. Don't be afraid of the nudity and attendant's glare, because if in commercial salon, you will have a separate tanning suit.

Get Inside the Tanning Bed
When all the above things and precautions are taken care of, get inside the tanning bed and just press the start button and set a timer. Although the time of tanning depends on the kind of skin you have, never tan more than 20 minutes.

After you are finished with the tanning, come out of the bed, wipe yourself with the towel and enjoy. Remember not to take bath just after getting off the tanning bed. In fact, you should not shower for the whole day, because some soaps can work against the tan.

It's a wonderful and very effective way to get a tan that is just as natural as the sun tan. You can also put on your favorite music while tanning. It will really ease your stress at the end of the day.