Walking into a tanning salon for the first time can feel a little intimidating. You might be picturing complex machinery, confusing lotions, or worrying about emerging looking more “orange” than “sun-kissed.” It is completely normal to have a few butterflies before trying something new, especially when it involves your skin.
However, indoor tanning is a straightforward process once you know the ropes. Whether you are prepping for a vacation, getting ready for a special event, or just want to shake off the winter blues with a bit of glow, a little preparation goes a long way.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from how to prep your skin to what actually happens inside the booth—so you can walk in with confidence and walk out with a radiance you love.
Preparing for Your Tanning Salon Visit
A great tan actually starts before you even step foot in the salon. How you prepare your skin determines how evenly you tan and how long that color lasts.
Exfoliate 24 Hours Before
Think of your skin like a canvas. If the canvas is rough and uneven, the paint won’t look right. The same applies to UV light and tanning lotions. Dead skin cells can block UV rays from penetrating the fresh skin underneath, leading to a patchy tan that fades quickly. Use a gentle scrub or an exfoliating mitt in the shower the day before your appointment to slough off dead skin.
Skip the heavy products
On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean skin. Avoid wearing heavy perfumes, oil-based moisturizers, or makeup. These barriers can block UV rays or, in some cases, cause uneven reactions to the light. If you are coming straight from work, many salons offer makeup removal wipes, but it is always best to start fresh if you can.
Dress for comfort
You might feel sticky or warm immediately after tanning. Tight jeans or leggings can rub against your skin and potentially streak your developing tan or just feel uncomfortable. Opt for loose, dark clothing. Darker fabrics are safer just in case any bronzing lotion transfers onto your clothes.
Hydrate
Healthy, hydrated skin tans better than dry skin. Drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment. While you shouldn’t wear heavy oil-based lotion immediately before tanning, keeping your skin moisturized in the days leading up to your visit is crucial for a lasting glow.
What to Expect: The Step-by-Step Process
So, you have arrived at the salon. What happens next? Here is a typical walk-through of the experience.
1. The Consultation
The staff at the front desk are there to help you, not just check you in. Be honest about your skin type. Do you burn easily? Do you have a base tan already? They will assess your skin type (often using the Fitzpatrick scale) to determine the appropriate amount of time for your session. As a beginner, you will likely start with a short session—perhaps only 5 to 8 minutes—to prevent burning.
2. Choosing a Lotion
You will likely be asked if you have tanning lotion. Regular beach sunscreen or outdoor tanning oil is generally not allowed in tanning beds because it can damage the acrylic surfaces. You will need an indoor tanning lotion. These are formulated to maximize UV absorption and moisturize your skin simultaneously.
- Accelerators/Intensifiers: Great for beginners. They help your skin produce melanin naturally.
- Bronzers: These contain cosmetic color for an instant tint while your natural tan develops.
- Tingles: These increase blood flow to the skin and can cause a burning or itching sensation. Avoid these for your first few visits until you are accustomed to the process.
3. Entering the Room
A staff member will lead you to a private room. Once the door is locked, you are in control.
- Undress to your comfort level: Most people tan in their underwear or swimsuit to minimize tan lines, while others choose to go nude. The choice is entirely yours.
- Protect your eyes: This is non-negotiable. You must wear FDA-approved protective eyewear (goggles or “wink-ease” stickers). Closing your eyes or using a towel is not enough to block UV rays, which can damage your corneas over time.
4. The Session
Apply your lotion evenly over your body. Locate the start button on the bed or booth. Once you are ready, lie down (or stand up if it’s a stand-up booth) and pull the canopy down. The lights will turn on, and fans usually kick in to keep you cool. Relax! If you feel too hot or uncomfortable at any point, simply exit the bed or hit the stop button.
Enhance Your Tan With These Safe & Effective Tips ✨
Aftercare Tips: Keeping the Glow
You have completed your session. Now, the goal is to keep that color looking fresh for as long as possible.
Wait to shower
If you used a bronzing lotion, you typically need to wait 2 to 4 hours before showering to allow the color to fully set. If you used a standard intensifier, you can shower sooner, but giving your skin time to absorb the product is usually beneficial.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
This is the golden rule of tanning. UV exposure can dry out your skin. Dry skin exfoliates faster, which means your tan will fade faster. Use a high-quality daily moisturizer specifically designed for post-tan care, or a rich body butter, to lock in hydration.
Take it slow
Do not rush back the next day. It takes time for melanin production to happen. Most experts recommend waiting at least 24 to 48 hours between sessions. Tanning is a marathon, not a sprint; building a base tan gradually is the safest way to avoid burning.
Debunking Common Myths
There is a lot of misinformation out there about indoor tanning. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions.
Myth 1: “I need to burn first to get a tan.”
Fact: Absolutely not. Sunburn is skin damage. It involves redness, peeling, and pain. A tan is the skin’s protective reaction to UV exposure. If you burn, you have overexposed your skin. The goal of indoor tanning is to stimulate melanin without burning.
Myth 2: “Indoor tanning is safer than the sun because there are no burning rays.”
Fact: Tanning beds emit UVA and UVB rays, just like the sun. While the intensity and ratio might differ, UV exposure is still UV exposure. Moderation is key in both environments.
Myth 3: “I don’t need goggles if I close my eyes.”
Fact: Your eyelids are thin and offer very little protection against UV light. Long-term exposure without eye protection can lead to color blindness, night blindness, and even cataracts. Always wear your goggles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a tan last?
A natural tan created through UV exposure typically lasts about 7 to 10 days before your skin naturally exfoliates the tanned layer. Consistent moisturizing can extend this.
Can I wear contact lenses?
It is generally recommended to remove contact lenses before tanning. The heat and fans in the bed can dry out your eyes, making contacts uncomfortable or difficult to remove later.
What if I am claustrophobic?
If small spaces bother you, ask the salon if they have stand-up booths. They are open at the top and offer more room to move around compared to lay-down beds.
How often should I go?
When building a base tan, you might go 2-3 times a week. Once you have achieved your desired color, 1-2 sessions a week is usually enough to maintain it.
Achieve Your Perfect Glow
Your first visit to a tanning salon doesn’t have to be stressful. By prepping your skin, communicating with the salon staff, and following proper aftercare, you can achieve a beautiful, even look safely and effectively. Remember, the key is moderation and patience. Don’t try to get a tropical vacation tan in a single 10-minute session. Build it up slowly, protect your eyes, and keep your skin hydrated.
Ready to start your journey toward a sun-kissed look? Visit Broad Ripple Tans today to explore the best tanning bed deals and amenities around. Our friendly staff is ready to help you navigate your first session with ease!
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