Beginner Tanning: Best Tips for First Time Tanners
Looking to get that perfect golden glow? Today we’re covering all the best beginner tanning tips. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know all the best ways to get the sun-kissed look for any type of skin.
The Different Ways to Get a Tan
Depending on your tanning preferences, there are many different sunless options for getting a tan.
Natural sun tan
Natural sun tanning is the process of tanning the skin by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Sun tanning provides the most natural-looking and even tan, since it’s the most natural way to tan.
It can be a great way to add color to the skin without the use of any kind of chemical treatment. However, if you don’t have much time and need to get a tan fast, this may not be the best option for you.
Tanning beds
Tanning beds are devices that emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation that mimics the sun in order to produce a tanning effect on the skin. They are typically used in tanning salons, spas, and beauty salons, but they can also be installed in your home.
There are different beds, for example, a stand-up tanning bed versus a lay-down bed.
Self and bronzing tanning lotions
Self-tanning and bronzing lotions are products designed to give you a sun-kissed glow without the damaging effects of UV rays. It usually contains a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that reacts with the proteins in the skin’s outer layer to produce a tan.
The lotion is usually applied with a foam applicator or tanning mitt, but some people use their hands, and it takes about 8 hours for the tan to process and appear.
Self-tanning lotions are a great way to get a healthy, even tan, without having to spend time in the sun. They are also great for those with fair skin who struggle to tan without burning.
Tanning lotions are a great option for those who don’t like tan lines.
Spray tan and airbrush tanning
Spray tans and air brush tanning are methods of sunless tanning where a fine mist of a tanning solution is sprayed onto the body. An airbrush tan is done by a person using a spray gun, and a spray tan is done by a machine in a booth.
These solutions contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the proteins in the outer layer of the skin to produce a darker color. Spray tanning is a popular alternative to sun tanning as it does not require any exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation which can be damaging to the skin.
Spray tans are another easy way for those with pale skin to get a perfectly tanned color without burning. For people who have sensitive skin, both of these methods are often better alternatives to outdoor tanning.
Benefits of Tanning
The main benefit of tanning outdoors is that your body will be getting Vitamin D, which is an essential vitamin. Being outside can also help with many skin issues like acne and psoriasis and help stimulate your thyroid gland and boost your metabolism.
Tanning also helps boost your self-esteem and can also improve your mood. We all have experienced that when you are happier with your appearance, you are naturally happier and more confident.
Beginner Tanning Tips
If this is your first time visiting a tanning salon, using a self tanner, or getting a professional spray tan, read through these tips to be sure you’re prepared and to ensure a longer-lasting tan:
Consult your doctor about any concerns
If you have any skin conditions, make sure you know how to care for those prior to being exposed to any type of fake tan. If you have any concerns about your skin, it’s a good idea to keep in communication with your doctor before sitting in the tanning bed or the sun to be sure your skin is safe to do so.
Exfoliate before tanning
Prior to being in the sun or a tanning bed, exfoliate your whole body (it is best to do it the day before). The best way to do so is by moving in circular motions with an exfoliating mitt, body scrub, and warm water. There are many different types of scrubs on the market today, but we love this one.
Always tan with clean skin
Remove any makeup before going in the sun to get an even tan and avoid skin issues.
When getting an airbrush or spray tan, it’s just as important to have clean skin as it results in a more even application, which provides the best results.
Stay moisturized
The easiest way to stay hydrated after cleaning and exfoliating your skin is to moisturize. Dry areas or flaky skin won’t tan well and will make the tan application much more difficult.
When it comes to airbrush or spray tanning this is crucial. If your skin isn’t even, the product will not blend evenly either which can result in streaks, darkened areas, and splotches.
Use sun protection
When tanning outdoors, SPF is good to prevent burning, which is what is most damaging to the skin when it comes to sun exposure. Mineral-based sunscreens are the healthiest options. Always protect your lips by wearing a lip balm with SPF.
Protect your eyes
Much of the vitamin D we absorb is absorbed through the eyes and skin. In the sunshine, leave your eyes uncovered for 30-45 minutes, and then sunglasses are good eye protection.
One of the most important tanning bed tips for beginners is to always wear tanning goggles or protective eyewear as the bulbs can damage your eyes.
Tanning Precautions
- Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen often when you are in the sun.
- If you are out in the peak hours, between 10:00 am-4:00 pm, be aware that this is when the sun is the strongest, so cover your face as well.
- Be sure to stay hydrated before, during, and after. If you will be sitting in the sun, bring a big jug of water and extra water. You can never have enough water if you are spending the day outside or spending time under UV lights.
Tanning Aftercare
- If you are getting a spray tan, be sure to avoid all moisture, such as workouts, hot yoga, showers, foundation, lotions, etc, for 4-5 hours. After that waiting period, be sure to moisturize often.
- If you are tanning in the sun, also be sure to moisturize after your tan.
- If you do end up getting a sunburn, apply aloe vera directly onto the area where you got the sunburn to help alleviate that.
FAQs
What is the healthiest way to tan?
For your skin’s sake, the safest way to tan is by using self-tanning products such as tanning lotion. The other way that you can safely get that nice glow is by getting a spray tan.
Being in the sun is great for you, but too much sun can cause aging, and excessive sunburn can cause skin cancer.
How can I get a tan faster?
If you are opting for a quick tan, tanning lotion and a spray tan are quick options. However, if you are sitting in the sun or having a beach day and you want to get a quick tan, make sure you apply your SPF.
Some may think that they won’t get color when applying sunscreen, but you will avoid having a sunburn, and you will get more of a darker tan this way.
Also, make sure that you switch positions (back to front) often, so you get a tan around your entire body.
Another way to ensure you will get a tan during your day in the sun is choosing the right time to go out (when the UV index is at its highest), normally between 10:00 am-4:00 pm.
What is the hardest part of the body to tan?
Your legs will be the hardest part of your body to tan due to them naturally being a bit drier. Stay moisturized for better tanning.
What is the easiest part of the body to tan?
The upper back normally tans and burns the quickest, depending on your body.
How can I achieve a darker tan in a tanning or sunbed session?
First, make sure that prior to going into a tanning bed you exfoliate your skin to get all the dead skin cells off. Use good skin care products that moisturize and hydrate your skin.
Apply a tan accelerator and a tanning lotion prior to using any indoor tanning equipment. Finally, be sure to remove any makeup so those areas can get tan and to avoid getting an uneven tan.
How long should beginners stay in the tanning bed?
Always talk with the tanning consultants for your first visit, as they are trained and will be able to assess your skin tone to make a great suggestion for your allotted time.
Normally, beginner tanners are advised to do short tanning sessions and to stay in the tanning bed for approximately 4-8 minutes per session. If you are getting a spray tan, you can choose what level you want, depending on how dark you want to be.
What are some stand up tanning bed tips for beginners?
All od the tips from above apply to stand up tanning beds. However, a stand up tanning beds less likely to cause any uneven areas. As long as your skin is clean, exfoliated, and moisturized, you should expect great results.
Final Thoughts on Getting a Natural-Looking Tan
There are many different skin types and preferences, so everyone’s idea of a perfect tan will be different.
To get the best results, trust the tanning process and follow the recommendations of the tanning professionals you work with!
Whether you are tanning indoors or outdoors, be sure to take the right precautions and aftercare to maintain healthy skin for the long run. If you are a first-time tanner or even a pro, don’t forget your SPF protection!
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