ETS Tanning Bed Blog

Probably the most common question asked by new tanning bed users (and yes, even experienced tanners) is how often should you tan? I’ve said it a thousand times before and I’ll say it again, tanning is a process and it’s all about consistency when you use tanning beds. So, how often you should tan will depend on your skin type, the type of beds you’re using and your desired tan level.

Getting a Tan Started

It depends on your skin type, but getting a base tan started can take anywhere from eight sessions to fifteen sessions in a traditional tanning bed (3-5 sessions in a high-pressure bed) to develop a good tan. But, you have to do it slowly.

For example, if you’re fair-skinned, you’ll want to start with a shorter amount of time in the tanning beds and then build your time up with each visit. This will avoid burns and keep you from overexposing your skin too fast too soon. If you feel a prickling, itching or stinging sensation after you tan, you’ve been overdoing it. I recommend starting slow and then increasing in one to three minute increments.

Traditional Beds vs High Pressure Tanning Beds

Traditional tanning beds have a little more UV-B in them, meaning you do have to be more careful about watching your time to avoid burns. In a traditional tanning bed, you’ll need to build up your tan over those 8 to 15 sessions. Once your base tan is achieved, you should come back anywhere from two to three times a week to maintain the tan.

High-pressure tanning beds let you come less and will actually tan you faster. These beds filter out the UV-B rays and deliver what are called UV-A rays. With high-pressure beds, you can usually build a good base tan is about 3-5 sessions.

Once that high-pressure tanning base has been built up, you should only have to repeat the process once every couple of weeks. This is because high-pressure beds don’t tend to make the skin exfoliate as much as a traditional tanning bed, meaning you’ll keep your tan longer.

Consistency is Key

The key to maintaining a good tan is consistent, regular tanning. Remember, tanning is a process that builds over time. So long as you maintain regular visits to the tanning beds; you’ll keep up that ideal tan.