Do you want to get a nice tan using a sunbed? Many people in North America use sunbeds to get a tan when it’s cold outside or when they don’t have time to sit in the sun. But did you know that using the right lotion can make your tan look better and last longer? In this article, we will help you find the best lotion for sunbed tanning.
Why Use Special Lotion for Sunbed Tanning?
Regular lotions you use every day are not made for sunbeds. Sunbeds give off special light that can dry your skin. A good lotion for sunbed tanning does two important things:
- It helps your skin make more color (this is called melanin)
- It keeps your skin from getting too dry
Without the right lotion, your tan might not look as nice, and your skin could feel rough.
What Makes a Good Lotion for Sunbed Tanning?
Let’s look at the most important things to check when picking a lotion for sunbed tanning.
1. Performance: How Well It Works
The most important thing is how well the lotion helps you get a tan. Look for these things:
- Accelerators: These help your skin make color faster. Common ones are tyrosine and melanin.
- Moisturizers: Sunbeds can dry your skin. Good lotions have things like aloe vera, shea butter, or coconut oil.
- Bronzers: Some lotions have color that shows right away. This is good if you want to see your tan quickly.
- Tingle effect: Some lotions make your skin feel warm. This means more blood is flowing to your skin, which can help with tanning.
Tip for North Americans: If you live in a cold place like Canada or the northern U.S., your skin might be drier. Pick lotions with extra moisturizers.
2. Price: How Much It Costs
Lotions for sunbed tanning can cost from $10 to $50. Is the expensive one better? Not always! Here’s how to think about price:
- Small bottles (4-8 oz): Good for trying a new lotion. Costs $10-$20.
- Big bottles (12-16 oz): Better value if you use sunbeds often. Costs $20-$35.
- Professional sizes (32 oz+): Best for tanning salons. Costs $30-$50.
North American tip: Many tanning salons in the U.S. and Canada sell lotions. Ask if they have deals for buying more than one bottle.
3. Durability: How Long It Lasts
A good lotion for sunbed tanning should last a long time. Here’s what affects how long it lasts:
- Size of the bottle: Bigger bottles last longer.
- How much you use: Using too much makes it run out fast.
- Formula: Thick creams last longer than thin lotions.
Most people use about 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) per session. A 12-ounce bottle should last for 12 sessions.
Tip: Keep your lotion away from heat and sunlight. This makes it last longer.
4. Brand: Who Makes It
Some brands are well-known for making good sunbed tanning lotions in North America:
- Australian Gold: Makes many lotions with good smell and color.
- Designer Skin: Known for lotions that give dark color.
- Millennium Tanning: Makes lotions that work well and smell nice.
- ProTan: Good for people who want fast results.
- Tokyo Sun: Makes lotions with special smells like coconut.
Big brands often cost more, but they usually work better. New brands might be cheaper but might not work as well.
5. User Reviews: What Others Say
Before buying, check what other people say. Here’s where to look:
- Tanning salon staff: They know what works best.
- Online reviews: Check Amazon, Ulta, or tanning salon websites.
- Friends who tan: Ask people you know.
When reading reviews, look for:
- How fast people got a tan
- If skin felt dry or itchy
- How long the tan lasted
- If the smell was nice
Best Lotion for Sunbed Tanning for Different Needs
Not all lotions work the same for everyone. Here are the best choices for different needs.
Best Overall: Australian Gold Dark Tanning Accelerator
This is a great choice for most people. It has:
- Strong accelerators to help you tan faster
- Good moisturizers to keep skin soft
- Nice coconut smell
- No bronzers (so no color right away)
Price: $25 for 12 oz
Why it’s good: Works well for most skin types and doesn’t cost too much.
Best Budget Option: ProTan Clear
If you don’t want to spend too much, try this one:
- Basic accelerators work well
- Good for dry skin
- No color or tingle
- Very affordable
Price: $15 for 12 oz
Why it’s good: You get good results without spending much money.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Millennium Tanning Sensitive Skin Lotion
Some people’s skin gets red or itchy. This lotion is made for them:
- No perfumes that cause reactions
- Extra moisturizers to calm skin
- Gentle accelerators
- Works well in U.S. and Canadian salons
Price: $28 for 12 oz
Why it’s good: Lets you tan without hurting your skin.
Best with Cooling Effect: Designer Skin Polar Bear
This lotion makes your skin feel cool while you tan:
- Cooling menthol makes skin feel fresh
- Strong accelerators for dark color
- Nice mint smell
- Works well in hot summer months
Price: $32 for 12 oz
Why it’s good: Perfect for when you feel too warm in the sunbed.
Best with Bronzer: Swedish Beauty Instant Bronze
Want to see color right away? Try this:
- Dark bronzers give instant color
- Accelerators help tan get darker
- Smells like berries
- Good for special events
Price: $30 for 12 oz
Why it’s good: You see results after just one session.
How to Use Lotion for Sunbed Tanning
Using the lotion right makes a big difference. Follow these simple steps:
- Shower first: Wash your skin with mild soap. Don’t use strong soaps that dry skin.
- Dry well: Make sure your skin is completely dry.
- Apply evenly: Use about 2 tablespoons of lotion. Cover all parts you want to tan.
- Wait 10 minutes: Let the lotion soak in before using the sunbed.
- After tanning: Wait at least 2 hours before showering. Use gentle soap.
North American tip: In many U.S. states and Canadian provinces, you must be 18 to use sunbeds alone. Always follow local rules.
Safety Tips for Sunbed Tanning in North America
Sunbeds can be safe if you use them right. Here are important safety tips:
- Start slow: First time? Only stay in for 3-5 minutes.
- Don’t overdo it: Wait at least 48 hours between sessions.
- Wear eye protection: Sunbeds are bright. Always use the goggles provided.
- Check skin often: Look for spots that don’t heal or change.
- Talk to your doctor: If you have light skin or take certain medicines.
Important North American fact: Many places in the U.S. and Canada have rules about sunbed use. Some states require parental permission for people under 18.
When to Replace Your Lotion
Lotions don’t last forever. Here’s when to get a new bottle:
- If it smells bad or different
- If the color changes
- If it separates and won’t mix when shaken
- If it’s been open for more than 12 months
Most lotions work best within 6-12 months after opening.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Lotion for Sunbed Tanning
Finding the best lotion for sunbed tanning doesn’t have to be hard. Think about:
- What your skin needs (dry? sensitive?)
- How much money you want to spend
- How dark you want to get
- What other people say about the lotion
Remember, the most expensive lotion isn’t always the best. The best one is the one that works well for YOU.
Start with a small bottle to try it out. If you like it, then get a bigger size. Ask people at your tanning salon for help. They know what works best for people in your area.
Happy tanning! With the right lotion for sunbed tanning, you can get a beautiful, healthy-looking tan that makes you feel great.
