Summary
Preparing for a sunbed session starts at home and continues in the salon. From exfoliating and moisturising to understanding your skin type and choosing the right tanning lotion, this guide explains how to prepare for a sunbed responsibly and in line with Irish regulations. You’ll find practical prep tips, a simple timeline, aftercare advice, and answers to common sunbed questions.
How to Prepare for UV Tanning
Preparing for your first UV tanning session? From when to exfoliate and moisturise to choosing an appropriate tanning lotion and spacing your sessions correctly, our tanning experts share their essential tan prep advice to help you make informed, responsible choices on your tanning journey.
Know Your Skin Type
Before using a sunbed, it’s essential to understand your skin type. Don’t worry if you’re unsure, our trained salon consultants will provide a free skin type analysis during your initial consultation.
Knowing your skin type allows our team to set appropriate session times, recommend suitable tanning equipment, and advise on tanning lotions, all with a focus on responsible use and avoiding overexposure. Here’s an overview of the different skin types.
1. 1. Very Fair Skin
Skin is very pale and has high sensitivity to UV light. Typically light blonde or red hair with blue or green eyes.
2. 2. Fair Skin
Fair to medium skin that tans poorly and can be sensitive to UV light. Usually lighter hair and blue, green, or hazel eyes.
3. 3. Medium to Olive Skin
Skin tends to tan gradually and evenly, with a more balanced response to UV light. Eye and hair colour vary.
4. 4. Light Brown or Olive Skin
Darker skin that generally tans easily. Hair colour is typically darker, and eyes are brown or hazel.
5. 5. Brown Skin
Skin tans very easily and has minimal UV sensitivity. Eyes and hair are likely dark.
6. 6. Dark Brown or Black Skin
Deeply pigmented skin that tans quickly. Dark hair and eyes.
UV Tan Prep Timeline
Customers often ask how to prep skin for a tan. Keeping skin healthy and hydrated is the key. Exfoliating and moisturising are pre-tan non-negotiables, but timing your prep correctly also plays an important role.
48-24 Hours Before
Gently exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. Follow with an oil-free lotion to keep skin moisturised.
24 Hours Before
Avoid anything that may irritate or sensitise the skin, including acids and harsh skincare products.
On the day
Follow the exposure time recommended for your skin type and tanning history. Always wear the free protective eyewear provided and use a UV specific lotion.
What to Wear
What you wear during a sunbed session is entirely up to you. Many customers opt for swimwear or underwear, while others choose to tan nude. Rest assured that all our tanning rooms are entirely private.
If tanning nude, take care to protect any sensitive areas that aren’t used to UV exposure. Remove any jewellery to prevent tan lines and always wear the complimentary protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the UV rays.
Choose Your Tanning Lotion
Applying a UV-specific tanning lotion before your session helps keep skin hydrated and comfortable throughout. You’ll find a huge range of UV lotions in all our salons, including accelerators, maximisers, bronzers, and extenders. Our tanning consultants can help you pick the best lotion for your skin type and goals.
Please avoid using non-UV lotions before tanning, as they can damage sunbed acrylics and may not be suitable for use during UV tanning.
How to Maintain Your Glow - Sunbed Aftercare
Post-session care is just as important as your pre-tan prep. Here’s some essential sunbed aftercare to help maintain your tan and support skin hydration:
- Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your skin
- Wait around 2-4 hours before showering
- Use lukewarm water when you shower to avoid drying out the skin
- Moisturise daily using an oil-free lotion or tan extender
- Avoid exfoliating or shaving for 24-48 hours
- Always leave at least 24 hours between sunbed sessions
UV Tanning Dos and Don’ts
Care for your skin and get the most out of your session with our helpful dos and don’ts for before and after your sunbed appointment.
Before Your Spray Tan
Do:
- Identify your skin type to tailor your appointment
- Exfoliate and moisturise at least 2 days prior
- Shave or wax at least 24 hours in advance
- Arrive with clean, product-free skin (no makeup, deodorant, perfume, or lotion)
- Wear protective goggles, supplied free of charge
- Apply a UV-specific tanning lotion
- Protect any tattoos using a tattoo protection lotion
Don’t:
- Apply lotion, makeup, perfume, or deodorant before your appointment
- Use oils or oil-based moisturisers
After Your Spray Tan
Do:
- Drink plenty of water to rehydrate
- Wait 2-4 hours before showering in lukewarm water
- Moisturise daily with a lightweight, oil-free lotion
Don’t:
- Shower immediately after using a sunbed
- Exfoliate or shave straight after your session
- Book another appointment too soon. You must always leave at least 24 hours before repeat tanning
FAQs
What Should I Put on My Skin Before Tanning?
You should arrive at your appointment with clean skin, free from oils, makeup, perfumes, and deodorants. Before entering the sunbed, we advise applying a UV-specific tanning lotion to your face and body to keep your skin hydrated during your session.
Do I Need Goggles on a Sunbed?
Yes, protective eyewear is mandatory for sunbed users. We provide free eye protection for all customers.
Can I Use a Tanning Bed if I Have Fair Skin?
If you have very fair skin (skin type 1), we strongly advise seeking medical guidance before using a sunbed. During your consultation, we will assess your skin type and advise on a tanning routine suited to it. We begin all sessions with the lowest number of minutes permitted for your skin type.
Can I Tan if I’m on Medication?
Certain medications can increase skin sensitivity to UV rays. Consult your GP to check whether your medication increases your UV sensitivity before choosing UV tanning.
What are the Sunbed Rules in Ireland?
In line with HSE guidance and the Public Health (Sunbeds) Act 2014, the following rules are in place at all Tanning Shop Ireland locations:
- You must be 18 or older to use a sunbed (photo ID is required)
- Protective eyewear is provided free of charge and must be worn
- All sessions are timed and monitored by trained staff
- All sunbeds are industry-regulated and regularly maintained
- Customers cannot book more than one session within a 24-hour window
Book a Sunbed Near You in Dublin
Now you know the best way to prepare for a tan, visit your local Tanning Shop to book your first appointment. With salons across South Dublin and County Wicklow, our dedicated team is always available to guide you through all things tanning. Find your nearest store or book your consultation today.
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