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How do I Choose the Best Tanning Bed Lotion?

By S. Gonzales
Updated May 17, 2024
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Indoor tanning can be a perilous process. Like rays from the sun, ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted from tanning beds can have a deleterious effect on the skin and cause a number of health problems. Nevertheless, specific types of tanning bed lotion exist to help protect your skin from unnecessary damage and to help you get an even, bronze tan.

Bronzers, tingle lotions and standard lotions are three of the types of tanning bed lotions that you are likely to find on the market. Each one offers its own benefits, but many types of lotions come bundled with another. For example, it's not uncommon to find that a tanning bed lotion is marketed as a dual bronzer and tingle lotion.

You might prefer to buy a bronzer over a tingle lotion or standard lotion for a number of reasons. Bronzers accelerate skin darkening. They also can reduce the amount of time you have to spend in a tanning bed to get results.

A common ingredient in tanning bed lotions is tyrosine. It is an amino acid that encourages the body's production of melanin, a skin-darkening element. Melanin is sensitive to UV rays, which tanning beds emit. Using products with tyrosine can help the skin darken faster.

Many consumers pay attention to the extra ingredients that are in a tanning bed lotion. These extra ingredients can help moisturize and protect the skin from undue damage and the premature aging that can result from it. Skin-firming and anti-aging formulations are popular among those who buy tanning bed lotions, because those products tend to reduce the signs of aging. Hemp seed, carrot seed, unipertan, avocado and aromatherapy oils are a few ingredients that can be found in tanning bed lotions. Botanical extracts and vitamins also can be included in tanning bed lotion formulations to help smooth and nourish the skin.

It's important that you adequately protect your skin before using a tanning bed. Using a good tanning bed lotion can reduce the health risks associated with tanning beds. Tanning bed lotions even can be applied after tanning to achieve results, because tanning has been known to continue well after tanning sessions are over.

Tanning salon representatives often will offer tanning bed lotions while you are in the business, preparing yourself for your indoor tan. Salespeople are encouraged to make these sales because businesses can greatly profit from them. You can save money by finding the appropriate lotion for your body and buying the lotion before you enter the salon.

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Discussion Comments

By burcidi — On Apr 03, 2013

@ddljohn-- But does she actually tan with those lotions on?

As far as I know, tanning beds use UVA rays to tan, so wearing UVA protection would prevent tanning.

I personally don't use anything before tanning. I think that tanning bed lotions are a waste of money. I've tried several in the past and didn't notice any improvement in my tan. I do use a moisturizer with cocoa butter after I tan because my skin dries out a lot. I also make sure to drink lots of water.

By stoneMason — On Apr 02, 2013

I used a tingle tanning lotion once and it was a very uncomfortable experience. That stuff really burns! Yes, it got me dark, but it also felt like I was on fire! I'm never using it again. I think I will stick to regular bronzing tanning bed lotions they sell at the salon.

By ddljohn — On Apr 02, 2013

My sister uses body lotion with UVA and UVB protection before she goes for tanning. Isn't this illogical?

I think she's making it more difficult for her skin to tan. I don't know why she does that. She should use coconut oil or something.

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