How to Tan With Fair Skin

Tanning with fair skin can be tricky. But, having fair skin does not mean that a gorgeous tan is out of your reach. People with fair or pale skin can still benefit from the tanning bulbs. Just follow these tips for the best ways to safely tan if you have fair skin.

Tanning can affect different types of skin differently. Skin types are classified into six different categories, labeled I-VI. If you have the lightest type of skin, you are a type I skin type. This means that your skin type is most prone to burning while tanning.  There are some precautions you can take to avoid the burning.

• As strange as it may sound, showering before you tan can make a big difference. This is because perfumes and makeup can cause your skin to be more prone to burning.  
• Apply a sunscreen that contains an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least twenty to thirty. This helps the skin to tan without burning.
• Be certain to keep your fair skin moisturized. Purchase salon quality moisturizers which are specifically designed for indoor tanning. Apply the moisturizer before and after tanning sessions. Such formulas are specially intended to help skin remain healthy while tanning indoors. 
• Don't use tanning lotion when outside. These lotions are created for indoor tanning beds, which do not emit dangerous UVC rays. 
• Consider all areas of your exposed skin. Wearing a lip balm to protect against UV rays is a smart idea. This will keep your lips from being overexposed. Along with this, you should wear protective goggles every time you tan.
• Tanning fair skin is best done, initially, in very short time spans. This way, you are able to see how your skin will react. Then, you can increase your tanning times a little bit at a time, building up to your maximum session time. Stay patient and complete this process over a long period of time. 
• Between sessions, allow 24 to 72 hours to pass. Your tan develops over time. Try not to give in to the temptation to rush the process. 
• If tanning nude, during the first three or four sessions you should tan your sensitive body areas for only half the amount of time. 
• If you experience any skin problems such as a rash or itchiness after tanning, you should consult a physician.

Preparing for a the Tanning Salon Visit

Making your first trip to a tanning salon? Don't make the usual rookie mistakes! There are a few things you can do to get yourself and your skin ready for a session under the tanning bulbs and on your way toward a sun-kissed tan. The time you spend preparing for your trip to the salon will enhance the tan you receive afterwards. So do it right and reap the rewards.

First, if you’re on any antibiotics or other drugs, know they can negatively affect your skin and cause photosensitivity, regardless of the limited amount of time spent under the tanning bulbs. Check with your doctor before you head to a tanning to see if any medicine you’re on can cause side effects when exposed to UV rays.

Make certain your skin is prepared to fully benefit from the tanning bulbs. The way to do this is to have spent some time – days or even weeks if you have time – moisturizing your skin.

Also, exfoliate the day before you tan to get rid of all of the dead skin cells. You can use exfoliating creams and/or bath puffs to scrape off the dead skin cells. Make certain your exfoliation process is a gentle one though as you don’t want your skin to be raw or irritated. In truth, you should be moisturizing daily and exfoliating at least every other day as these processes keep your skin healthy and smooth year round.

You should definitely make sure you’re using a moisturizer the day of your tanning salon visit. Make certain the lotion doesn’t contain any sunscreen and the day of your visit you will want to avoid any kind of astringents or any products that contain alcohol (these will dry out your skin and make it harder to tan properly).

When you go the tanning salon, ask the person who works there how many sessions they think you will need to achieve the level of tan you want. You will want to space out your visits so that you get your tan gradually. If you’re planning to go on a vacation, it’s best to start your tanning sessions at least a month prior to the trip. For individuals with hard-to-tan skin, you may want to look at beginning your tanning two months prior to your vacation.

Time spent in a tanning salon can lead to a nice even tan – the kind you rarely get from lounging on a raft poolside. Having a base tan can also prevent you from getting a burn while on your vacation. So consider time under the tanning bulbs one more to-do item before that vacation, or simply give yourself that boost that comes with knowing your skin is glowing and golden.