It’s time again for Tanning 101, where we provide tanners of all experience levels with helpful tips and friendly reminders for making your tanning experience the best it can be!

Watch Out for Photosensitivity! Certain medications, cosmetics and topical skin treatments may cause your skin to become photosensitive, which means it is not as tolerant to UV exposure. If you’re not careful, photosensitive skin can burn! Most medications will have a warning sticker alerting you that they may make you burn easier. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if anything you are currently taking or using could make your skin photosensitive.

Time Your Tanning. Not all tans are made the same! Depending on what level of tan you want to achieve, your skin type and how you tan, you may need more or less time under the lamp. Your tanning consultant can help you find the perfect tanning time for you. And when in doubt, always err on the lower time. Moderation is key with everything!

Take Your Time. The tanning process doesn’t stop once you leave the tanning bed—it takes up to 24 hours for your skin to process your tanning session! That’s why it’s important to space out your tanning sessions. Tanning no more than once per 24 hours allows your body plenty of time to finish the tanning process, and for your skin to recover moisture and lost nutrients that are used up while your tan is developing. Slow and steady means a great overall tan! The FDA and Sun Tan City recommend that you do not tan more than 3 times per week.

If you’re new to tanning, this post is for you! If you’ve decided to try indoor tanning for the first time, here are a few important tips to keep in mind:

Dress for Comfort. No dress code here! When you tan at STC, your room is private, so you’re free to wear whatever you want while tanning. But keep in mind; more sensitive areas that don’t get much sun exposure should be well moisturized and exposed gradually until you know you will be comfortable.

Use Lotions Often. Lotion is one of the most important parts of the tanning process, and not just any lotion will do. Sun Tan City’s lotions are specifically formulated for specific stages of tanning. While you start building your base tan, use the lotion that is just right for your skin type, tone and how often you intend to tan.

Wear Your Goggles! Protective eyewear that blocks 99% of UVA and 99.9% of UVB radiation is required by law whenever you tan. We offer goggles at every Sun Tan City location—be sure to put them on and keep them on the entire time you’re tanning.

Stay tuned for more tanning tips!