One of the most basic questions tanning salon staffs get from new clients has to do with using a tanning bed. There are various kinds of tanning beds out there, from laydown and standup, to mega, ultra bronzing, high pressure, red light, and more; so as a first-time tanning bed user, these options can feel quite overwhelming. For this reason, tanning salons generally recommend using a laydown, or standard, bed for your first indoor tanning experience.

If you are new to using a tanning bed, continue reading for a simple, step-by-step process on how to get the best results at your local tanning salon!

Getting Started

Your first step begins before you even leave the house! Think about what you are going to wear to the tanning salon, as well as, what you are going to wear in the tanning bed. See our last blog, “What Should I Wear in a Tanning Bed?” for information and tips on tanning bed attire.

Tanning Lotions

Once you know what your attire will be, your next step is to choose a tanning product. Or, you can choose to forgo tanning lotions altogether. Just be sure to still incorporate some form of SPF protection or sunscreen, as you can still burn in a tanning bed just like you would in the natural sun. See our blog, “3 Types of Indoor Tanning Lotions” to learn more about tanning lotion options.

Arriving at the Salon

Upon arriving at the salon, you will check in and pay at the counter. Tell them you would like to do a standard bed, and then discuss how long you would like to tan. You will tan similar in a bed as you would in the sun, so keep this in mind when choosing a time limit. For first timers, it is recommended to go for 10 minutes, and then see how you feel. If you tan well, you can opt for 15 to 20 minutes. When your check-in is complete, you will be instructed to a room. Before heading to your room, be sure to grab a pair of gold eye protection stickers on the counter. These are free, and they work very well.

Note: If you need to use the restroom, do so before heading to your room. There are guest bathrooms in the back of the salon.

Inside Your Room

Once you get inside your room, close the door and be sure it is locked. You can choose to turn on the radio next to the head of the bed, before getting started. Now with your tunes set, remove your clothing to reveal the attire you have chosen to tan in, and then apply your tanning lotion (or sunscreen), if you choose to. Next, head to the wall and press the button that starts your tanning bed. Then sit on the bed and apply your eye protection stickers, following the instructions on the back of the wrapper.

Tanning

Now just lay down, close the top of the tanning bed on top of your, and RELAX! You can adjust the speed of the fans and monitor the time left from inside the bed as you tan. Keep in mind, if you are in a bed with a face tanner, once you turn it off, it will not come back on. When the bed shuts off, get out, wipe yourself down with the towel provided, and toss your eye stickers in the trashcan. After getting dressed, you are welcome to use the complimentary deodorants, hairsprays, and face wipes provided in the back of the tanning salon. These amenities are great for those who have to go back to work or run additional errands for the day!

Where to Get a Safe Indoor Tan in Broad Ripple

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to ask us about our Indianapolis tanning beds and specials this month. We offer a wide selection of tanning beds, products, lotions, packages, and of course, air brush spray tanning services! On top of neighborhood prices, we also offer tanning coupons and discounts all month long! Request a free estimate, today.