Do you want to get a nice tan using a sunbed? Using the right lotion for sunbeds can make your skin look amazing. But how do you know which one is the best? This guide will help you find the best lotion for sunbeds. We’ll look at many things to help you choose wisely.
Why Use Special Lotion for Sunbeds?
When you use a sunbed, your skin needs special care. Regular lotions won’t work well. Sunbed lotions are made just for tanning beds. They help your skin:
- Get a darker tan faster
- Stay soft and smooth
- Not dry out from the heat
- Look healthy after tanning
Using the right lotion for sunbeds makes a big difference. It can help you get the tan you want without hurting your skin.
What to Look for in the Best Lotion for Sunbeds
1. Performance: How Well It Works
The most important thing is how well the lotion works. Here’s what good performance means:
- Tanning Boosters: Some lotions have ingredients that help you tan faster. Look for words like “accelerator” or “intensifier” on the bottle.
- Moisturizing Power: Sunbeds can dry your skin. The best lotion for sunbeds keeps your skin wet inside. Look for words like “hydrating” or “moisturizing.”
- No Sticky Feeling: Good lotions sink into your skin fast. You don’t want to feel sticky after applying.
- Scent: Some lotions smell nice. Others have no smell. Pick what you like.
North American Tip: In the U.S. and Canada, sunbed lotions don’t have SPF (sun protection). This is because sunbeds use mainly UVA rays. But always check the label to be safe.
2. Price: How Much You Pay
Lotion prices can be very different. Here’s how to think about price:
- Cheap Options: $5-$15. These work okay but might not give the best tan.
- Medium Price: $15-$25. Most good lotions cost this much. They give good value.
- Expensive Choices: $25+. These have special ingredients. They might work better but cost more.
Smart Tip: Don’t just pick the cheapest. Think about how much you use each time. A bigger bottle might cost more at first but last longer.
3. How Long It Lasts (Durability)
Good lotions last a long time on your skin. Here’s what affects durability:
- Amount You Use: Some lotions need just a little. Others need a lot. Less is better!
- How Often You Tan: If you tan twice a week, you’ll need more lotion.
- Bottle Size: Bigger bottles usually last longer.
A good lotion for sunbeds should last for 10-15 tanning sessions if you use it right.
4. Brand: Who Makes It
Some brands are better than others. Here’s what to know:
- Trusted Brands: Brands like Designer Skin, Swedish Beauty, and California Tan are popular in North America.
- New Brands: Sometimes new brands have good products too. But be careful.
- Where You Buy: Buy from stores you trust. Big stores like Walmart, Target, or tanning salons sell real products.
North American Fact: In the U.S., the FDA checks skin products. But sunbed lotions are considered cosmetics, not medicine. So check reviews to be safe.
5. What People Say (User Reviews)
Reading what others say helps a lot. Here’s how to use reviews:
- Good Reviews: Look for words like “great tan,” “not sticky,” or “smells nice.”
- Bad Reviews: Watch for “made me break out” or “didn’t work.”
- Where to Find Reviews: Check store websites, Amazon, or tanning salon reviews.
Tip: Don’t believe just one review. Read many to get the real story.
When to Use Different Types of Lotion
Not all lotions work the same in every situation. Let’s see when to use which type:
For First-Time Sunbed Users
If you’re new to sunbeds, pick a gentle lotion:
- Look for “beginner” or “sensitive skin” on the bottle
- Choose lotions with extra moisturizer
- Avoid strong tanning boosters at first
- Good choice: Hempz Tanning Lotion (Medium price, $18)
For People with Dry Skin
If your skin gets dry easily:
- Pick lotions with shea butter or aloe vera
- Choose “ultra-hydrating” products
- Use more lotion on dry spots like elbows
- Good choice: Australian Gold Deep Tanning Intensifier ($22)
For Fast Results
If you want a dark tan quickly:
- Pick lotions with “max” or “intense” in the name
- Look for tyrosine or melanin boosters
- Don’t stay on the sunbed too long
- Good choice: Designer Skin Liquid Confidence ($28)
For Sensitive Skin
If your skin gets red or itchy:
- Pick fragrance-free lotions
- Look for “hypoallergenic” on the label
- Do a small skin test first
- Good choice: Devoted Creations Watermelon Wonder ($20)
For People on a Budget
If you don’t want to spend too much:
- Pick medium-price lotions (not the cheapest)
- Buy bigger bottles (they cost less per use)
- Look for sales at tanning salons
- Good choice: Banana Boat Ultra Mist Gradual Tanning ($12)
Safety Tips for Sunbed Lotion
Using sunbeds can be risky if you don’t take care. Here are important safety tips:
- Never Use Outdoor Tanning Oil: Outdoor oils have SPF. They won’t work in sunbeds and can damage the bed.
- Clean Your Skin First: Always wash before tanning. Oils or dirt can cause bad burns.
- Don’t Overdo It: Start with short sessions (5-8 minutes). Too much time can burn your skin.
- Use Eye Protection: Always wear special goggles. Sunbeds can hurt your eyes.
- Moisturize After Tanning: Use a good after-tan lotion to keep your tan looking fresh.
- Check Expiration Dates: Old lotion might not work well and could hurt your skin.
North American Law: In many U.S. states and Canadian provinces, you must be 18+ to use sunbeds. Some places require parental permission if you’re 16-17. Always follow local laws.
Top 5 Best Lotions for Sunbeds in North America
After looking at many products, here are the top choices:
1. Designer Skin Liquid Confidence
- Price: $28 (8 oz bottle)
- Why It’s Good: Works fast, smells great, not sticky
- Best For: People who want a dark tan quickly
- User Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
2. Australian Gold Deep Tanning Intensifier
- Price: $22 (8.5 oz)
- Why It’s Good: Super moisturizing, good for dry skin
- Best For: People with dry or sensitive skin
- User Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
3. Hempz Original Herbal Body Moisturizer
- Price: $18 (17 oz)
- Why It’s Good: Big bottle, good price, natural ingredients
- Best For: First-time sunbed users
- User Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
4. Devoted Creations Watermelon Wonder
- Price: $20 (8.5 oz)
- Why It’s Good: Smells like watermelon, gentle on skin
- Best For: People with sensitive skin
- User Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
5. Swedish Beauty Dark Bronzing Lotion
- Price: $25 (8 oz)
- Why It’s Good: Makes skin very dark, long-lasting
- Best For: Experienced sunbed users
- User Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
How to Use Your Lotion the Right Way
Even the best lotion for sunbeds won’t work if you don’t use it right. Follow these easy steps:
- Clean First: Wash your skin with mild soap. Wait until it’s dry.
- Apply Evenly: Use a small amount and rub it all over. Don’t miss spots!
- Wait 10 Minutes: Let the lotion sink in before getting on the sunbed.
- Wear Loose Clothes After: Tight clothes can rub off the lotion.
- Moisturize Daily: Use lotion every day to keep your tan fresh.
Tip: Apply extra lotion on rough spots like knees and elbows. They soak up more lotion.
Signs You Picked the Wrong Lotion
Sometimes a lotion doesn’t work for you. Watch for these signs:
- Your skin feels itchy or burns
- You see red spots that don’t go away
- The lotion feels too sticky
- Your tan doesn’t get darker after 4-5 sessions
- You break out in pimples
If you see these signs, stop using that lotion. Try a different one next time.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Best Lotion for Sunbeds
Finding the best lotion for sunbeds isn’t hard if you know what to look for. Remember these main points:
- Pick lotion made just for sunbeds (not outdoor tanning)
- Think about your skin type first
- Medium-price lotions often work best
- Read what other people say
- Always put safety first
The perfect lotion for sunbeds for you depends on your skin, budget, and what you want. Try one or two different types to see what works best.
Remember, the goal is to look and feel great while keeping your skin healthy. With the right lotion, you can get a beautiful tan that makes you smile!
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Sunlamp Products and Tanning: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/sunlamp-products-and-tanning-what-you-need-know
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023). Indoor Tanning. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-skin-care/sun/indoor-tanning
- Health Canada. (2023). Indoor Tanning: Health Risks and Regulations. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/ indoor-tanning-health-risks-regulations.html
- Skin Cancer Foundation. (2023). Indoor Tanning Safety Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/indoor-tanning/
