Why Am I Not Getting Darker in the Tanning Bed? Understanding Tanning Plateaus

You may have reached a tanning plateau. Everyone has a limit to how dark they can get. To try to get past your current color we recommend switching the types of beds you use every few tanning sessions and changing your lotion – try a bronzer or switch to an accelerator.

The most common misconception people have when using tanning beds is that they need to constantly roll and turn. This is not true. Turning inside a sunbed improperly can damage and crack the acrylic lining of the machine. You can move as long as you do it with extreme caution and where it wouldn’t make you feel uncomfortable.

If you use a bronzer during your tanning session, it is even more essential to wait to shower. Bronzers and other tanning bed lotions are designed to increase melanin production to result in darker tans.

Why isn’t my face tanning? Our faces tan from daily sun exposure. Additional UV radiation doesn’t change face color much. For an even tan, focus on your body instead of face.

  • Lack of tanning bed knowledge. Consult staff for best device, session length, lotions. Gradual, regular sessions better than intense ones. Research salon reviews first.
  • Applying accelerators before tanning absorbs fast for non-greasy hydration without blocking melanin production.
  • Some people genetically cannot produce much melanin so struggle to tan. Medications also suppress tanning. Albinism prevents melanin absorption of sunlight to tan.
  • Mild UV rays cause sunburns, producing melanin and tan color. With little melanin, skin won’t change color. While sun improves mood, moderation is vital as UV exposure ages skin.

Tanning beds emit UV radiation like the sun, but at higher intensities. Exposure can cause skin cancer, eye damage, and other health problems. Tanning beds use fluorescent bulbs that release UVA and some UVB to mimic sunlight for a natural tan.

It takes a few tanning sessions before you see results. With regular tanning three times a week, it may take several weeks to get a good tan. If developing a base tan for a vacation, start tanning two to three weeks prior.

A medium strength bed tans skin in three to four days while a high strength bed takes one to two days. For tanning beds to be effective, they need to emit UVB rays which stimulate melanin production. The melanin then absorbs more UVB rays, darkening skin over time.

Skin type affects how long it takes your tan to appear. Most people see results after one tanning salon session but it may take several for your desired color. Ten minutes in a tanning bed equals four hours on the beach!

To maintain and extend your tan, use a tan extending lotion after tanning. This locks in bronzers for longer sun-kissed skin. Never tan more than once a day and only tan 1-3 times a week depending on bed level to retain desired color.

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