Ready to ditch the fake tan for something a little more cost-effective? Or perhaps you’ve never dipped your toes into the world of indoor tanning? Either way, if you’re eager to reinvent yourself as a confident, bronzed beauty it pays to know how to start using sunbeds properly before you even pick up the phone to organise your first session.
Equipped with the insider knowledge from our experienced staff, your home tanning experience will be a breeze, allowing you to spend less time worrying about the details and more time getting that golden glow.
Contents
- Where to start: Sunbed insights to get you going
- 7 steps for using a sunbed for the first time
- Bonus home tanning bed tips for beginners
Where to start: Sunbed insights to get you going
If you’re new to using sunbeds, getting started can feel overwhelming, but fear not! Here are some insights to help you ease into the world of indoor tanning.
First up, you’re not alone: around 30% of adults across the UK have used sunbeds at least once, with popular areas being the North East of England and Scotland. Behind this popularity are numerous benefits, starting with the convenience of tanning in the comfort of your own home without the need to visit a salon – ideal for those with busy schedules or limited access to tanning facilities.
Hiring a sunbed may work out to be more cost-effective in the long run compared to spray tanning or regular salon visits, especially if you plan to tan frequently. Besides the cost factor, sunbed rental gives you greater control over your tanning experience, allowing you to adjust settings such as session duration and intensity according to your preferences. In short, you maximize your looks at maximum convenience.
7 steps for using a sunbed for the first time
By now you should be eager to learn how to start using sunbeds and the extent of planning that goes into the process. To make it straightforward, we’ve broken it down into 7 key steps.
1) Choose your sunbed
Before hopping onto a sunbed or even onto a booking portal, take a moment to choose the right one for you. Consider factors like the type of bed (lay-down or stand-up), traditional or cool-tanning, and any additional features such as facial tanners or cooling fans. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations based on your skin type and tanning goals – they’re here to help you out, after all.
2) Build your tanning program
Next up, decide on a tanning schedule that works for you. Whether you aim for a subtle glow or a deep bronze, creating a comprehensive plan will help you achieve your desired results steadily and safely.
Start with shorter sessions of about 1-3 minutes and gradually increase the duration up to 4-8 minutes by your sixth session as your skin becomes accustomed to the UV exposure. It is crucial to wait at least 48 hours between sessions to allow your skin to rest and regenerate at the beginning of your indoor tanning journey.
Developing a tanning regime is all about finding the right balance between your skin type and your desired level of tan. For most people, achieving a base tan takes around 3 to 5 sessions, over a gradual period. After you’ve established your base, maintaining it becomes easier with more regular sunbed sessions. Ideally, aim for around two sessions per week to deepen your tan steadily and safely. However, if you’re simply looking to sustain the glow you’ve already attained, like after a holiday, one session a week should be enough.
There is some variation based on skin type, but regardless of this make sure that you don’t rush the process. Most importantly, consult the advice of a sunbed specialist if you’re uncertain.
3) Book a bed
Once you’ve selected your sunbed and devised a tanning program along with the experts, it’s time to book your bed rental. Check with the sunbed provider for availability and hire your bed for a duration that fits your schedule and requirements. As a rule of thumb, you can save with longer-term rentals but short-term hires give you more flexibility – whatever you decide, make sure that you’re at home for both delivery and collection.
4) Prep and prime your skin
Prepare your skin for tanning by exfoliating gently to remove any dead cells. Apply a moisturiser and SPF to hydrate your skin and enhance the tanning process whilst keeping you safe. Don’t forget to remove any makeup, fake tan, jewellery, or lotions before entering the sunbed to avoid uneven results.
5) Safety first!
Before entering the sunbed, put on protective eyewear provided by the salon to shield your eyes from the UV rays. Follow the instructions provided by the staff, including proper positioning inside the bed and any safety precautions to take during the session. Remember, safety is paramount when it comes to tanning!
6) Get tanning
Once inside the sunbed, relax and enjoy the experience. Find a comfortable position and try to evenly expose all parts of your body to the UV rays. Make sure to use the provided timer to monitor your session duration and avoid overexposure. If you feel too hot or uncomfortable at any point, don’t hesitate to end the session early.
7) Aftercare
After your tanning session, moisturise your skin to lock in hydration and prolong your tan. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and replenish any fluids lost during the tanning process. Avoid showering immediately after tanning to allow your skin to absorb the UV-induced melanin fully. With proper aftercare, you’ll maintain a healthy glow and minimise the risk of skin damage.
Bonus home tanning bed tips for beginners
With the process outlined, it’s time to delve into our final tips for those renting a tanning bed from home. Keep these in mind and you can’t go wrong.
Research reputable rental companies
Look for well-established and reputable companies that specialise in home sunbed rentals. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have rented sunbeds before or give the company a quick call before making your decision.
Double-check the availability
Before making any commitments, ensure that the rental company has the type of sunbed you want available for the dates you need it. Some companies may have limited availability, especially during peak seasons.
Enquire about delivery and setup
Ask about the delivery and setup process. Will the rental company deliver and set up the sunbed for you, or will you be responsible for transportation and assembly? Make sure you understand any additional fees associated with these perks.
Understand the rental terms
Take the time to read and understand the rental agreement thoroughly. Pay attention to the rental duration, payment terms, deposit requirements, and any cancellation policies. It’s always helpful to clarify any questions or concerns you may have before signing the contract.
Inspect the sunbed
Before accepting delivery, inspect the sunbed to ensure that it’s in good working condition. Check for any signs of damage or malfunction, and make note of any pre-existing issues. Report any discrepancies to the rental company as soon as possible.
Follow safety guidelines
As always, safety comes first. Familiarise yourself with the safety guidelines for using the sunbed, as provided by the rental company. Follow all instructions carefully to minimise risk, including wearing protective eyewear and avoiding overexposure to UV rays.
Maintain proper hygiene
Keep the sunbed clean and sanitised throughout the rental period. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting the equipment after each use. Avoid sharing the sunbed with others to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
Get your glow from home
Ready to embark on your home tanning journey? Now you know exactly how to start using sunbeds, all that’s left is to get the ball rolling with the booking process.
At QuickTan, we’re proud to offer a stellar service that makes it easier than ever to cultivate a bronzed look with minimal effort. We’ll deliver your chosen tanning beds with all the safety equipment and accessories, and collect at the end of your hire, so you don’t have to lift a finger.