Building a Base Tan Responsibly at The Tanning Shop

Planning your summer holiday? Got your flights booked and counting down the days until you are on that aeroplane? It’s time to think about building your base tan for the ultimate sun-kissed glow!
Here are our tips for responsibly building the perfect base tan using sunbeds before jetting off and sunbathing by the pool or on the beach!
Remember to look after your skin while building your base tan
Did you know hydrated and healthy skin tans better than dull, dry skin? To maximise your tanning results, you need to ensure you are looking after your skin. Gently exfoliating your skin between sunbed sessions can help remove dead skin cells, which reflect UV light and can slow down the development of your tan.
It’s also vital to keep your skin hydrated and moisturised! Using a skin-nourishing moisturiser daily can help improve skin condition and enhance your tanning results. Additionally, avoid products with alcohol or other drying agents, as they can negatively affect your skin’s hydration levels and your overall tanning results.
Slow and Steady wins the race! Build up your session length over time
To build the perfect base tan you need to make sure you are building up your minutes gradually over time. This allows your skin to get used to the UV rays and avoids the risk of over-exposure. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!
It is important to understand your skin type and adjust your session lengths to suit your skin type, pop into your local Tanning Shop store for a free tanning consultation when you register. Only use products designed specifically for use with a sunbed.
Always use a UV-specific lotion in your tanning sessions. These lotions include ingredients that not only help enhance tanning results and support the skin’s natural melanin production but also help to nourish, hydrate and rejuvenate your skin. Using high-street brand lotions, oils and moisturisers can not only be damaging to your skin while using a sunbed but can also damage the equipment you are using.
Allow time for your tan to develop between sessions
The full tanning process takes up to 24 hours following your session, so it is advised to leave a minimum of 24 hours between sessions.
Do not tan outdoors, in direct sunlight, the same day as your sunbed session
It is important when using sunbeds you avoid any risk of overexposure. During your sunbed session, the bed emits a controlled level of UV output. If you then spend time sunbathing in direct sunshine your dose of UV is no longer controlled and this can lead to overexposure. We would always advise that you avoid tanning outdoors on the same day you have, or plan to have a sunbed session.
Always use eye protection
Using eye protection designed for sunbed use is essential in every session to protect your eyes. Whether you use disposable eye covers or reusable goggles, ensure your eyes are covered whenever you use a sunbed.
Remember to use SPF when sunbathing in natural sunlight
Although a base tan will provide you with a sun-kissed glow and can help boost your tanning results, it does not provide you with protection from natural sunlight. It is important to remember to apply an SPF sunscreen regularly when tanning outdoors.
Building a base tan before your holiday can enhance your sun-kissed look and give you a huge confidence boost. However, it’s important to approach tanning with care and consideration for your skin’s health. By following the guidelines provided and seeking professional advice from our in-store tanning consultants, you can achieve a beautiful, even tan without compromising your skin’s well-being.
Happy tanning, and enjoy your summer holiday with a healthy, glowing tan!