How to Apply Tanning Lotion: A Beginner’s Guide

Posted on March 8, 2024 by admin

Are you looking to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the harmful UV rays? Tanning lotions can be a safe and effective way to add a golden hue to your skin, but proper application is key to an even, natural-looking tan. Whether you’re stepping into a tanning bed or basking under the sun, mastering the art of tanning lotion application can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of applying tanning lotion, from selecting the right product to post-application care.

Tanning Lotions and More in Broad Ripple! Call 317-257-8262 Today!

Choosing the Right Tanning Lotion

Selecting the right tanning lotion is the first step towards a successful faux tan. Here are some factors to consider:

Understanding Your Skin Type

Just like with regular sunscreen, different tanning creams are formulated for various skin types. Fair skin may burn easily, while darker skin tones might tan more quickly. Be sure to choose a tanning lotion that matches your skin’s needs, whether that includes a lower SPF for more sensitive skin or a higher SPF to start with if you tan easily.

Tanning Bed Lotion vs. Sun Tanning Lotion

Tanning bed creams are designed to enhance the tanning process and often contain ingredients that promote melanin production. On the other hand, sun tanning lotions provide protection from UV rays while aiding in tanning development. Make sure you use the correct type of lotion for your tanning method.

Selecting the Appropriate SPF Level

The SPF level in a tanning lotion determines the amount of UVB protection it offers. Higher SPF levels provide more protection, and some tanning creams offer SPF as high as 30 or 50. For protection against UVA rays, look for a “broad-spectrum” formula.

How to Prep Your Skin for Tanning Cream

Proper preparation of your skin is crucial to ensuring a smooth and even application.

Exfoliation for Smooth Skin

Use a gentle exfoliating scrub to slough off dead skin cells. Pay particular attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and the tops of your feet. This step will prevent the tanning lotion from clinging to dry patches, which can lead to an uneven tan.

Moisturizing Dry Areas

After exfoliating, apply a moisturizer to any areas that tend to be drier. This will help the skin absorb the tanning cream more evenly and prevent these areas from becoming too dark.

The Process of Applying Tanning Lotion

Now that you’re ready to apply the tanning lotion, here’s how to do it effectively for a seamless tan.

▶ Start with a Small Amount

Less is more when it comes to tanning lotion. Begin with a small dollop and add more as needed. Smearing on too much at once can lead to over-application and an unnatural, uneven tan.

▶ Use Circular Motions for Even Coverage

Apply the product using small, circular motions. This technique helps distribute the product evenly and ensures you don’t miss any spots.

▶ Pay Attention to Elbows, Knees, and Hands

These areas are notorious for looking too dark after tanning. Use a minimal amount of product or a separate, lighter tanning lotion designed for these body parts, applying it with a gentle touch.

Post-Application Tips

After you’ve applied the tanning product, there are a few crucial steps to ensure your tan sets perfectly.

Allow Time for the Lotion to Dry

Wait at least ten minutes for the tanning lotion to absorb and dry completely before getting dressed or getting into water. Failure to do this can result in streaks, an uneven tan, and stained clothing.

Hydrate the Skin Regularly

Keep your skin hydrated to maintain your tan for as long as possible. Drink plenty of water, and apply a good moisturizer daily to keep the color from fading too quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them when using tanning creams:

▶ Applying Too Much: Start with a little and build up. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take any away.

▶ Skipping Exfoliation: Smooth skin is key for an even tan, so exfoliate thoroughly before applying your lotion.

▶ Forgetting to Moisturize: Hydrated skin means an even tan. Moisturize deep, dry areas to ensure uniform color.

▶ Not Waiting for Lotion to Dry: Patience is a virtue here. Wait for your lotion to dry to avoid issues later.

▶ Using the Wrong SPF: Match your SPF to your skin type for the best results. Protect yourself first, then focus on tanning.

Missing Blending Steps: Be extra careful around elbows, knees, and hands to blend properly.

Product Recommendations

For those looking for quality tanning products, consider brands like Australian Gold, known for its unique combinations of exotic ingredients and sun protection, Swedish Beauty, which offers a wide range of intensifier and bronzing lotions, and Hempz, which focuses on all-natural, moisturizing formulas.

Key Takeaways

Applying tanning lotion can seem like a simple step in your beauty routine, but following these guidelines will help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve a radiant tan that lasts. Remember to always prioritize skincare and protection even when you’re looking to achieve that desired beachy hue. Happy tanning, and enjoy your sun-kissed glow!

Looking for a clean local tanning salon in Indy with top-notch tanning lotions and services? Contact Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to get the best deals on tanning beds, spray tanning, tanning products, and more! We also offer coupons!

Can I Use Tanning Bed Lotion to Tan Outdoors?

Posted on July 9, 2020 by admin

So, you have a special occasion coming up and you need some color fast? Well, take advantage of that amazing sunshine outside! But be careful which products you put on your skin, as you want to ensure you will not have any adverse reactions, nor streaky coloration before your big day. Continue below to learn some tips for outdoor tanning, including whether or not you can use your go-to indoor tanning lotion for outdoor sunbathing!

Indianapolis Tanning Products 317-257-8262

Outdoor Tanning Tips and Tricks

The natural sun gives off two primary types of ultraviolet rays, UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin’s thickest layer, known as the dermis. This is the type of UV light that effects premature aging, such as wrinkles (photoaging), dry skin, dark spots, and even suppression of the immune system. UVB rays effect the superficial layers of our skin, which are the layers that tan and burn. These rays also play a central role in eye damage (including cataracts) and the development of various skin cancers. This is why it is also important to protect your eyes in the sun, either with a visor, hat, or sunglasses. See our blog, “The Importance of Using Eye Protection When Tanning” to learn more.

When it comes to tanning in the actual sun, your skin might react differently than it does in a tanning bed. For this reason, when tanning outdoors in the natural sunshine, it is vital that you protect your skin with an initial layer of sunscreen. Then, continue to reapply the sunscreen in 1 to 4 hour intervals, depending on the strength of the formula. Although many sunbathers opt out of sunscreen out of concern that they will not get tan enough, this is a common misconception. However, it is true that the higher the SPF value in a sunscreen lotion, the less sun will get through to your skin. See our blog, “Can I Still Get a Tan With Sunscreen On?” to learn more about this topic.

Using and Choosing Your Tanning Bed Lotions

You love your indoor tanning lotion, so you naturally have the urge to use it outside in the summer. Well, guess what? This is a great idea! Indoor tanning lotions are developed and designed in a way that works best with your particular skin type and melatonin. Just be sure to choose a quality product! See our blog, “The Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Tanning Lotions” to learn exactly why! In addition to choosing a quality tanning bed lotion, be sure it is the right kind for your particular tanning needs.

Also called maximizers, tanning accelerators are a common indoor tanning lotion used in the industry. They are formulated to emphasize and prolong tanning results. This means the skin achieves a base tan faster and retains its color longer. They are recommended for beginners because they do not contain any added color dyes or bronzing agents, but they do contain a lot of moisturizing and skin care agents.

Tinglers, also referred to as hot action lotions, contain special active ingredients that stimulate micro-circulation in the skin. These active agents, commonly benzyl or methyl nicotinate, increase blood flow and deliver more oxygen to the skin cells. This promotes a deeper, longer-lasting tan in a shorter amount of time.

Indianapolis Indoor Tanning Lotions and Products at Affordable Prices

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to buy top-quality tanning lotions and products in Indianapolis, Indiana at the best prices around. Our tanning salon offers a wide selection of top-quality tanning lotions, moisturizers, and skin care products, all at the most competitive prices in town. Be sure to stop in for air brush spray tanning services, or relax in one of our luxury tanning beds!

3 Types of Indoor Tanning Lotions

Posted on March 13, 2017 by admin

Indoor Tanning Lotion 317-257-8262

No indoor tanning lotion is the same. Not only can you find thousands of name brands on the market, you will come across tanning lotions that provide different functions. Some make you tan faster, while others support skin care and color longevity. Regardless of the tanning lotion you choose, it is important to familiarize yourself with its purpose. This will ensure you are using the right product for your specific tanning goals. You may also ask the professional tanning consultants at the local neighborhood tanning salon for help making your selection.

Continue reading to learn about the 3 most common indoor tanning lotions and how they differ from one another.

Accelerators

Also called maximizers, tanning accelerators are a common indoor tanning lotion used in the industry. They are formulated to emphasize and prolong tanning results. This means the skin achieves a base tan faster and retains its color longer. They are recommended for beginners because they do not contain any added color dyes or bronzing agents, but they do contain a lot of moisturizing and skin care agents. Once a beginner has achieved a base tan, they can move onto stronger, more aggressive indoor tanning lotions.

Tinglers

Tinglers, also referred to as hot action lotions, contain special active ingredients that stimulate micro-circulation in the skin. These active agents, commonly benzyl or methyl nicotinate, increase blood flow and deliver more oxygen to the skin cells. This promotes a deeper, longer-lasting tan in a shorter amount of time. Upon application, they will cause a tingling, burning sensation while tanning, followed by a cooling sensation. For these reasons and more, they are not recommended for first-time tanning clients. Before using a tingler, it is best to test an area of the skin first to see if you have any discomfort or adverse reaction. You may also talk to your trusted tanning consultant for professional advice.

Bronzers

If you are looking for a deeper, darker tan, a bronzer lotion is a great choice. Bronzers contain added coloring agents that deliver a deep, rich, dark tan. They are formulated with the same ingredient used in self-tanning products, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is a chemical that temporarily alters the cells of the skin. Bronzing lotions will render an instant tan, and then continue to darken the skin hours after tanning. For these reasons, they are recommended for those who already has a base tan and with tanning experience. And if you choose to tan with an indoor bronzer, just remember to always wash your hands after tanning!

✨ Check back with us next month to learn what’s inside your indoor tanning lotion!

Indianapolis Tanning Salon

Broad Ripple Tans 317-257-8262

Call Broad Ripple Tans at 317-257-8262 to ask us about our Indianapolis tanning salon 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! Call 317-257-8262 to request a free estimate for our
Indianapolis tanning services, today.