If you’re new to tanning beds, you’ve probably considered wearing sunscreen in a tanning bed. It’s an understandable question, after all, sunscreen is what we’re always told to wear outdoors. But when it comes to indoor tanning, sunscreen works very differently.
The short answer is no, you shouldn’t use sunscreen in a tanning bed. Not only does it interfere with your results, it can also cause problems for your skin and even damage the equipment. Instead, indoor tanning requires products designed specifically for that purpose. Let’s break down why sunscreen isn’t suitable and what you should use instead to get the most even tan.
How Do Tanning Beds Work
Tanning beds are designed to mimic the sun, but in a controlled environment. They use carefully measured levels of UVA and UVB light to stimulate melanin production in your skin, which is the natural process that gives you a tan.
When you’re outdoors, sunscreen is essential to block UV rays and protect your skin. However, blocking those rays whilst tanning indoors, goes against the very point of the session. Tanning beds are already regulated and timed to deliver a set dose of UV, so adding sunscreen simply cancels out the effect.
Think of it this way: applying sunscreen before a tanning session is like wearing noise-cancelling headphones to a concert, you’re not going to fully experience what you came for. If you want to know more about how UV tanning beds work, read more in our blog post.
Why Sunscreen Isn’t Suitable for Tanning Beds
1. Blocks the UV Rays
2. It Can Damage Equipment
3. May Lead to Patchiness
Because sunscreen isn’t designed for indoor UV exposure, it doesn’t apply or wear evenly under a sunbed’s heat. You might find that certain areas of your skin, usually where the product has built up more thickly (forehead, nose or the chin), tan less than others.
The end result may seem streaky and unfinished. Outdoor tanning oils can cause similar issues, creating shiny patches that block or scatter UV rays instead of allowing your skin to absorb them consistently.
4. It Might Irritate the Skin
Tanning beds are warm environments, and that heat can cause sunscreen to react differently on your skin than it does outside. Heavy or oily formulas can “bake” into your pores, making them harder to wash off afterwards and increasing the risk of breakouts.
Fragrances and preservatives may also become more irritating under UV light and heat, leaving your skin tight or itchy after your session.
Should You Ever Use Sunscreen in a Tanning Bed?
Generally speaking, sunscreen is not something you should apply before tanning indoors. But there are a few exceptions where targeted protection makes sense.
If you have new tattoos, scars, hyperpigmentation, or very sensitive areas, applying a small amount of SPF can help preserve colour and prevent irritation. Others choose to shield their face entirely to reduce ageing effects, while still tanning the rest of the body.
For this, barrier creams or tattoo sticks are a better choice than full-body sunscreen. They protect specific areas without hindering your overall tanning results. If you recently gotten a new tattoo, check out our post on can you use a tanning bed after a tattoo?
What to Use Instead
The best choice for UV tanning is a tanning accelerator. These products are specially designed to work with sunbeds, helping you build a deeper, longer-lasting tan while keeping your skin nourished.
Accelerators stimulate melanin production and hydrates your skin, making them perfect for beginners or anyone looking to build a base tan.
Unlike sunscreen, they won’t block UV or damage sunbeds, and they often include vitamins and antioxidants to support even colour development and healthy skin.
At The SunShine Co., we offer a carefully selected range of indoor tanning accelerators to suit every skin type and tanning goal. Explore our online shop to find the perfect one for your next session.
Prepping for the Best Results
Before Tanning:
Start by exfoliating gently to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth base for your tan. Follow this by moisturising to prevent dry patches and ensure an even colour.
Next, apply an accelerator to help your skin absorb UV light more effectively. Finally, make sure your skin is free from makeup and perfume, so nothing impacts your results.
After Tanning:
Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within. Finish your routine with an aftercare lotion to prevent peeling, dryness, and to keep your skin feeling soft and healthy.
These simple steps can extend the life of your tan and keep your skin glowing long after you leave the salon.
Get the Perfect Tan
While sunscreen protects you outdoors, it blocks the very process that makes indoor tanning effective. Instead, the most rewarding way to tan is with professional lotions designed for sunbeds.
At SunShine Co., we’ll guide you towards the right products and equipment so you can enjoy an even, healthy-looking glow every time. Visit your nearest salon to get started and discover the difference the right prep can make.
For more tips when using sunbeds, read our other blogs including how to protect your face in a sunbed and how to protect moles in a tanning bed.
