Changing Your Style

Posted on: 17 November 2018

Many individuals find the time they spend tanning relaxes them; after their session, they feel refreshed and rejuvenated.They may also feel better about themselves with a base tan and can better enjoy vacations and outdoor excursions. Whether you tan to tackle certain skin conditions, boost your mood, or add a bronzed glow to your skin, there are a few things you should do before your tanning salon appointment to get the most out of your session.

1. Prepare Your Skin

You want to make sure that your skin is smooth, even, and moisturized before your tanning session. Not only does ridding your body of dead skin cells extend the lifespan of your tan, but it will help promote the development of even color. The day before your session, lightly exfoliate the body using a loofah while you shower.

After your shower, apply a light moisturizer all over the body. Excessively dry areas, like your elbows or knees, may require a heavier product. 

2. Avoid Products That Increase Your Skin's Sensitivity to UV Rays

There are some skincare products that make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. Ideally, you should avoid using these products before your tanning session. If you normally use them in the morning, use them at night instead.

Should your skin still have a high level of sensitivity, consider temporarily stopping use of the product or shortening the length of your tanning session. Ingredients that may increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight and UV rays include:

• Benzoyl peroxide
• Retinol
• Essential oils
• Beta and alpha hydroxy acids

3. Pack Your Tanning Accessories

Some tanning accessories are a matter of preference, while others are essential for your tanning session. You must have a pair of protective goggles in order to tan; these goggles will shield your eyes from the tanning bed's UV rays. 

Though a high-quality indoor tanning lotion isn't a safety necessity, most tanning experts agree that you will get the best results by using product specifically for indoor tanning before each session. The lotion will keep the skin moisturized during your sessions so that it can develop as much color as possible.

If you're anxious for a hint of color as soon as possible, look for a tanning lotion with a bronzer in it. This will give you a temporary glow until you develop your tan.

You may have certain areas of your body that have not received sun or UV ray exposure in years. To prevent these areas from burning, you can wear undergarments or cover them a few minutes into your session with a small towel.