One of the most common indoor tanning questions is:
“How long should I tan in a tanning bed?”

The ideal tanning time depends on several factors—your skin type, tanning experience, the type of tanning bed, and your desired results. Tanning too long increases your risk of burning, while tanning too briefly may not produce visible results.

This complete guide explains recommended exposure times, how to tan safely, and how advanced Merican tanning beds help users achieve better tans in shorter, safer sessions.

How Long Should You Tan in a Tanning Bed? (Quick Answer)

Most users tan for 5–20 minutes per session, depending on:

• Skin type

• Tanning level (beginner/intermediate/advanced)

• Bed pressure level (low-pressure vs. high-pressure)

• UV intensity

But the right time for you must be based on your skin’s sensitivity.

Recommended Tanning Times by Skin Type

The Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale determines your UV sensitivity. Always base your session time on your category.

Skin Type I — Very Fair, Always Burns

• Recommended time: 0 minutes

• Indoor tanning is not advised

• Skin cannot tan safely

Skin Type II — Fair, Burns Easily

• First sessions: 3–6 minutes

• Gradually increase to: 6–10 minutes

• Avoid long sessions to prevent redness

Skin Type III — Light to Medium Skin

• First sessions: 5–10 minutes

• After base tan: 10–15 minutes

Skin Type IV — Olive or Medium-Tan Skin

• First sessions: 10–15 minutes

• Deep tan maintenance: 15–20 minutes

Skin Type V–VI — Brown to Deep Brown Skin

• Sessions: 12–20 minutes, depending on goals

• These skin types tolerate UV much better and tan deeply

Low-Pressure vs. High-Pressure Tanning Beds: Time Differences

Not all tanning beds work the same. The pressure type directly affects recommended exposure time.

Low-Pressure Tanning Beds

• Common in many salons

• Higher UVB exposure

• Shorter sessions needed for safety

• Typical session time: 10–20 minutes

These beds create a surface-level tan that builds gradually.

High-Pressure Tanning Beds (Many Merican Models)

• Emit mostly UVA for deeper tanning

• Minimal UVB = less burning risk

• Produce dark tans faster

• Shorter sessions: 8–12 minutes

These beds are ideal for:

• Achieving tans quickly

• Maintaining color with fewer sessions

• Reducing total weekly UV exposure

How Merican Tanning Beds Optimize Session Time

Merican tanning beds integrate advanced technology to help users achieve ideal results in shorter, safer sessions.

✔ Precision UV Control

UV intensity is carefully calibrated, allowing efficient tans with minimal overexposure risk.

✔ Intelligent Time Regulation Systems

Merican beds automatically:

• Limit session duration

• Adjust output consistency

• Prevent excessive exposure

This ensures beginners and sensitive users tan safely.

✔ High-Pressure Lamp Technology

Merican’s high-pressure beds generate deeper tans in 8–12 minutes, reducing weekly tanning time.

✔ Ergonomic Cooling Systems

Advanced airflow protects the skin from heat stress, allowing comfortable full-length sessions.

✔ Optional Red Light Therapy

Red light:

• Improves skin tone

• Helps reduce inflammation

• Supports collagen production

This allows healthier skin, which responds better to UV and tans more evenly.

How to Determine Your Ideal Tanning Time

Use this guide for safe and effective tanning:

1. Start Low and Increase Slowly

Your first session should always be shorter than you expect—especially if you have fair skin.

2. Assess Your Skin After Each Session

If you see any redness, reduce time next session.
If no color develops, add 1–2 minutes gradually.

3. Never Tan on Consecutive Days

Skin needs 24–48 hours to recover and produce melanin effectively.

4. Follow Bed-Specific Guidelines

Each Merican bed lists:

• Maximum exposure time

• Recommended beginner time

• UV intensity rating

Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.

Signs Your Session Was Too Long

If you experience:

• Redness

• Tightness

• Peeling

• Tingling

• Itching

… your skin was exposed too long. Reduce next session by several minutes and allow recovery time.

Pro Tips for Safe & Effective Tanning

✔ Apply indoor tanning lotion before every session
✔ Wear UV-protective goggles
✔ Moisturize twice daily
✔ Drink plenty of water
✔ Avoid hot showers after tanning
✔ Don’t exceed maximum exposure time printed on the bed

How Long Should You Tan for the First Time?

Here are safe starting times:

Gradual increases help prevent burns and support steady melanin development.

Conclusion

How long you should tan in a tanning bed depends on your skin type, the tanning bed’s pressure level, and your tanning experience.
In general, tanning sessions last 5–20 minutes, but beginners should always start on the lower end.

With advanced Merican tanning beds, users can enjoy:

• Shorter tanning times

• Deeper, more even tans

• Lower risk of burning

• Improved comfort and skin health

By understanding your skin and following safe tanning practices, you can achieve a beautiful glow efficiently and safely.