A lot of newbies at the tanning salon tend to wonder about how to lay in a tanning bed. If you want to know how to get an even tan, avoid tan lines, butt circles, or moons, we’ve got you covered! It’s all about getting the right tanning bed positions. Checking where your limbs lie is also very important to get the sun-kissed skin you desire. In this article, you’ll learn some helpful tips on how to lay in a tanning bed to get the perfect tan!
How to Lay in a Tanning Bed | Avoid Missed Spots
Tip #1: Use the Goggles
After slathering on a good indoor tanning lotion, it’s time to put on the goggles. This is a great tanning tip for beginners. Goggles are important, but you might be concerned about the dreaded “raccoon eyes.” Remember your eyes and eyelids are sensitive to the UV light. Avoiding “raccoon eyes” isn’t worth the risk. Closing your eyes won’t work as UV exposure poses a serious risk. Both the internal and external structures of your eyes risk damage due to UV exposure.
To prevent raccoon eyes, adjust the goggles from time to time. When shifting the googles, make sure they still cover your eyes.
Tip #2: Stretch Out!
When using a tanning bed, make sure all parts of your skin get exposure. Resting your arms too close to your body can result in an uneven tan. Avoid staying in one position for long, especially in a position where you lay flat with your arms too close to your side. Try to lie on your back with your arms and legs spread on both sides. This is how to lay in a tanning bed to avoid tan lines. After some time, switch position with your arms above your head. Make sure the skin on your arms and legs get exposure. Spread your arms and legs apart.
Tip #3: Bend the Knee
Butt moons happen when the top of the legs and the buttocks squeeze tight against each other. To prevent this, all you have to do is bend your knees when you’re lying on your back in a tanning bed. Shift positions after some time with the other leg now bent. This way, all areas around that part get exposure, and you’ll have beautiful tanned legs with no missed spots!
Tip #4: Flip onto Your Stomach
To get even exposure, make sure to lay on your stomach halfway through the session. Lying on your stomach can be uncomfortable, but lying on your back all the time won’t get you the tan skin tone you want. When it’s time, lie on your stomach and place your arms by your side with your palms down. You can also shift arm position after some time. You can bend your arms and prop your chin over your hands for added support. This ensures both sides of your arms get a UV tan with even UV exposure.
Tip #5: Flip Sides
If you’re wondering how to tan your sides in a tanning bed, it’s simple. Lay on your sides at one point. Make sure to lie on one side and then on the other for equal amounts of time. You must avoid staying in one position on a tanning bed to avoid tan lines.
Tip #6: Don’t Forget the Neck
I just feel so relaxed after laying in a tanning bed 😌 pic.twitter.com/Nn7bbSEFTS
— Taylor Runser (@T_Run_Money) September 18, 2017
Tanning salons will provide a comfortable pillow in every booth. Yes, it’s comfortable, but you can do better without it. In fact, it can even get in the way of achieving perfect sun-kissed skin. Can you imagine a white strip on your neck? Ditch the pillow and make sure the neck area gets some exposure, too.
Tip #7: Moisturize
A tanning bed can do a number on your skin, so don’t forget to apply soothing lotion afterward. This helps your skin recover from significant amounts of exposure to UV light. That being said, lotion with some extra vitamins is a plus. You can also use coconut oil for its natural benefits that can help your indoor tan.
You’ll want to limit the effects of UV exposure or ultraviolet radiation. Remember, your tan will remain for as long as the outer layer of skin cells are not sloughed off yet. To ensure you’ll get the most out of your tan, exfoliate at least two days before your session. Additionally, you can stay hydrated and use tan extenders to help keep your golden glow a little longer!
Download, save, or share this handy infographic for reference:
Knowing how to lay in a tanning bed is a must when visiting a tanning salon for the first time. Follow the tips shown in the video below for the perfect tan during your tanning sesh:
Now you know how to lay in a tanning bed to get the best exposure, there’s no need to worry about missed spots. While you get excited about your next session, it’s best to wait at least 72 hours before your next visit to the salon. Use quality tanning lotions because tanning results also depend on the quality of the product you use. It’s also important to ensure your skin is prepared for tanning. There are many different things you can do to help keep your darker tan a little longer. Slow and steady guarantees you the best summer glow. Don’t stay in the tanning bed for too long and remember to hydrate and keep your skin well-moisturized.
Do you have more tips on how to lay in a tanning bed that you want to add? Share them in the comments section below!
Up Next: Tanning Bed Vs. Sunbathing | Which One Is Better?
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in October 2017 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
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