People often ask us why they develop a rash right after using tanning beds. The answer is simple: You’re tanning the wrong way! Here’s how you can prevent tanning bed itching and treat those red bumps.
Are Tanning Beds Safe?
Tanning beds is the worst method to tan yourself indoors. They emit harsh ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can increase the risk of skin cancer, premature skin aging, and allergic reactions leading to stubborn acne.
While some use tanning beds to achieve a natural sun-kissed look, the risks often outweigh the benefits.
Causes of a Tanning Bed Rash
If you’re unsure why you’ve developed a tanning rash, you might find your answer here.
Underlying Skin Condition: If you have eczema, rosacea, or lupus, you will likely experience severe rash reactions after using tanning beds.
Overexposure: Too much heat exposure can cause heat rash and redness.
Unhygienic Environment: De-sanitized tanning beds and goggles in tanning salons also cause rash.
Light Sensitivity: The ultraviolet radiation in tanning beds is unnatural and harsh, which means your skin might not be able to absorb all UV rays. This can result in white spots and sunburn.
Dry Skin: If you enter the tanning bed without moisturizer, you might end up with scaly, itchy skin, as tanning lamps leave the skin more dry and rough.
Drug Intake: Some ingredients in certain medicines can aggravate the side effects of tanning beds, such as birth control, antidepressants, antibiotics, etc.
How To Prevent Tanning Bed Itch & Rash
Even though I don’t support using tanners, you must know how to prevent yourself from its side effects.
Shower Before Tanning
Always start with clean skin. Showering removes sweat, dirt, and oils that can clog pores and cause bumps.
Exfoliate Regularly
Use a gentle exfoliating scrub a day or two before your session. This helps remove dead skin cells and reduces the risk of irritation.
Moisturize After Tanning
After using a tanning bed, apply a soothing lotion or moisturizer containing ingredients such as aloe vera and vitamin E.
Limit Tanning Session Time
Start with shorter sessions, especially if you’re a beginner. Gradually increase time as your skin builds tolerance for indoor tanning.
Stay Hydrated
A Hydrated body keeps your skin protected from prolonged redness and acne while giving it a healthy glow.
Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ every 2 hours for maximum protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Cover Yourself
Don’t unnecessarily expose your skin to sunlight, and wear covered clothes.
Avoid Tanning with Skin Issues & Medications
If you have existing skin conditions or are taking pills, skip the tanning booths until healed.
Symptoms of a Tanning Bed Rash
Identifying a tanning bed rash is simple. Look for:
Swollen areas with redness
Blisters and itching
Redness or white bumps in exposed areas
Here’s How You Can Treat a Tanning Bed Rash
Tanning bed rash treatment might differ for people, depending on their skin type and the severity of rashes.
Apply pure aloe vera, antihistamine cream, and 1% hydrocortisone cream to the affected areas and wait a few days for results.
Take cold baths and stop tanning for a while
Cosmetic products with chemicals such as hyaluronic acid can help regain moisture faster.
When To See a Doctor?
Consult the doctor and get treatment if:
You have a persistent fever
Pain and swelling that is not going away
Prominent red patches
Final Thoughts
If you’ve developed a tanning bed rash or itch, try treating it at home using cold water, exfoliation and topical creams. If the concerns persist, consult your doctor (dermatologist) and avoid going outside in direct sun.