Standard Session Times by Bed Type
| Tanning Bed Type | First-Time Users | Regular Users | Maximum Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stand-Up Bed | 3-5 minutes | 8-12 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Basic Lay-Down Bed | 5-7 minutes | 10-15 minutes | 20 minutes |
| High-Pressure Bed | 3-4 minutes | 6-10 minutes | 12 minutes |
| Turbo/High-Intensity Bed | 2-3 minutes | 5-8 minutes | 10 minutes |
Key Factors That Determine Your Time
- Skin Type (Fitzpatrick Scale)
- Type I (Very Fair): 3-5 minutes max
- Type II (Fair): 5-7 minutes
- Type III (Medium): 8-12 minutes
- Type IV-VI (Olive-Dark): 12-15 minutes
- Bed Strength
- Low-pressure beds: Allow longer sessions (10-20 mins)
- High-pressure beds: Require shorter times (5-10 mins)
- Tanning Frequency
- First session: 50% of maximum time
- After 3 sessions: Can increase by 1-2 minutes
- Maintenance phase: Use full recommended time
Safety Cut-Off Limits
- FDA Recommendation: Never exceed manufacturer’s maximum time
- Salon Regulations: Most enforce strict time limits (typically 20 mins max)
- Skin’s Warning Signs: Pinkness after 6-8 hours means you’ve reached your limit
Danger of Overexposure
⚠ Short-Term Risks:
- Painful burns (appearing 6-24 hours later)
- Sun poisoning (nausea, dizziness)
- Eye damage (without proper goggles)
⚠ Long-Term Risks:
- Premature aging (leathery skin, wrinkles)
- Increased skin cancer risk
- Immune system suppression
Smart Tanning Schedule Example
- Week 1: 3 sessions (Mon/Wed/Fri), starting at 50% max time
- Week 2: 3 sessions at 75% max time
- Week 3+: 2-3 maintenance sessions weekly at full time
Pro Tip: Use the “24-hour rule” – if your skin still feels warm after 24 hours, reduce next session by 2 minutes.
Special Cases
- Medications: Antibiotics, acne treatments, etc. may require 50% less time
- Recent Sunburn: Wait minimum 48 hours before tanning
- Tattoos: Cover with SPF 30+ to prevent fading