Your first sunbed session: what to know before you go

If you have never used a sunbed before, it helps to know what to expect. A little preparation makes the session more comfortable and gives you a more even colour. Here is what we tell people before their first time.

You need to be 18 or over

In England it is against the law for anyone under 18 to use a sunbed, and that applies to every salon. If you look young, please bring photo ID, as we may need to ask.

Is a sunbed right for your skin?

Not everyone should use one. The usual advice is to avoid sunbeds if:

• your skin always burns and never tans, or you have very fair skin, lots of freckles or red hair;
• you have a lot of moles, or a history of skin cancer in yourself or your family;
• you are taking medicine that makes your skin sensitive to light (some antibiotics and acne treatments do). Check the leaflet or ask your pharmacist;
• you are pregnant, or already sunburnt.

If you are not sure, ask your GP or pharmacist before you book.

Getting ready

• Come with clean skin. Take off make-up, perfume, deodorant and body lotion. Some of the ingredients can react with UV light and leave patchy marks.
• Exfoliate the day before. A gentle scrub removes dry skin, so your colour comes out more evenly.
• Take out contact lenses if you wear them, as the heat can dry your eyes.
• Cover tattoos with a high-factor stick if you want to protect the colour.

During the session

Always wear the goggles. Closing your eyes is not enough: UV light passes through your eyelids. Lie or stand comfortably, keep your arms slightly away from your body so the colour reaches your sides, and stop the session if you feel too hot or uncomfortable.

How long should your first session be?

Start short. For a first session we suggest the six-minute option, then see how your skin feels over the next day. If there is no redness, you can build up gradually. A deep tan does not come from one long session; it comes from a few short ones with a gap in between.

How often?

Leave at least 48 hours between sessions. Your skin keeps developing colour for a day or so after you tan, and it needs time to recover. Going back too soon is how people end up burnt.

Afterwards

• Have a shower if you like, but use a gentle wash and skip anything with harsh scrubs.
• Moisturise well, every day. Hydrated skin holds its colour for longer.
• Drink plenty of water.
• If your skin is red, sore or itchy, do not tan again until it has completely settled.

Any questions on the day, just ask. And if you are coming in for your nails, you can book a sunbed straight after, as one easy visit.