Whether you’re new to tanning, returning after a winter break or already know your favourite sunbed inside out, the right routine can make a big difference to how even and long-lasting your colour appears.

While there is no risk-free way to tan using UV exposure, careful preparation, professional guidance and good aftercare can help you avoid common tanning mistakes. Here are our 10 tanning tips for better results.

Please remember that UV exposure from the sun and sunbeds can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. Never continue tanning if your skin feels sore or appears red.

1. Keep Your Skin Moisturised

Dry, flaky skin can make a tan look uneven and cause your colour to fade more quickly as dead skin cells naturally shed.

Apply a good-quality moisturiser every day, paying particular attention to naturally dry areas such as your elbows, knees and ankles. We recommend choosing a product designed to support your tanning routine, such as a Hemp Nation Tan Extender.

Moisturising may improve the appearance and longevity of your tan, but it does not protect your skin from UV exposure.

2. Exfoliate Before You Start Tanning

Gentle exfoliation removes loose, dead skin cells and creates a smoother base for a more even-looking tan.

Exfoliate approximately 24 hours before tanning rather than immediately beforehand. This gives your skin time to settle and reduces the likelihood of sensitivity during your session.

Avoid scrubbing too aggressively. Exfoliation should leave your skin feeling smooth—not sore, red or irritated.

3. Choose a Professional Indoor Tanning Lotion

Indoor tanning lotions are designed to keep your skin moisturised during a sunbed session and may help your tan develop more evenly.

Choose a reputable product suited to your skin type and tanning goals. Whether you prefer an accelerator, bronzer or intensifier, our team can help you understand the differences and recommend an appropriate option.

Remember that an indoor tanning lotion is not a sunscreen and does not make UV tanning risk-free.

4. Avoid Choosing Products Based on Hype Alone

A tanning lotion might be popular on TikTok, but that does not necessarily mean it is suitable for your skin.

Some products may contain ingredients that leave your skin feeling dry, irritated or uncomfortable. Always purchase from a trusted retailer, check the ingredients and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

At The Tan Boutique, we carefully select the tanning lotions we stock and can help you choose one based on your skin type, experience and preferences.

5. Build Your Sessions Up Gradually

Never jump straight into a long tanning session, especially if you are new to sunbeds or have not used one recently.

Your tanning time should be based on your skin type, tanning history and the specific sunbed being used. More minutes do not automatically mean better results. Overexposure can cause redness, burning, peeling and lasting skin damage.

Always follow the recommended exposure schedule and never exceed the maximum session time. If your skin becomes pink, sore or tender, stop tanning and allow it to recover fully. The NHS confirms that sunburn is skin damage and can increase the risk of skin cancer. (NHS sunburn guidance)

6. Use a Product Designed for Your Face

Facial skin can be more sensitive than the skin on your body, so it may benefit from a dedicated facial tanning lotion.

These products are typically formulated to feel lighter on the skin and may be more suitable for people concerned about dryness, clogged pores or uneven facial colour.

Apply the product evenly and keep it away from your eyes. If your face struggles to develop colour, ask our team for advice rather than increasing your tanning time.

7. Never Replace Sunscreen With Tanning Lotion

Indoor tanning lotions should not be treated as sun protection when you are outdoors. They generally do not contain SPF and will not protect your skin against sunburn or UV damage.

When spending time outside, apply a suitable broad-spectrum sunscreen according to its directions and reapply it regularly—particularly after swimming, sweating or towel drying.

Do not mix sunscreen with another lotion or rely on a tanning accelerator as a substitute. Protecting your skin should always come first.

8. Store Your Tanning Lotion Properly

Avoid leaving tanning lotions in a hot car, in direct sunlight or close to a radiator. Excessive heat may affect the product’s texture, stability and performance.

Store your lotion in a cool, dry place, close the lid securely and check the recommended period of use after opening. If the colour, smell or consistency has noticeably changed, it may be time to replace it.

9. Apply Your Lotion Immediately Before Your Session

For the most even application, use your tanning lotion shortly before entering the sunbed.

Take your time and spread it evenly across your skin. Pay attention to areas that are easily missed, such as your sides, shoulders and lower legs.

Applying lotion at the salon also helps prevent it from rubbing away on your clothing before your session begins.

10. Keep Comfortable and Pay Attention to Your Skin

Fans and cooling features can make a sunbed session more comfortable, but temperature does not determine how effectively you tan. UV exposure causes tanning, while excessive warmth may simply leave you feeling hot or flushed.

Red skin should never be dismissed as “heat” or mistaken for a successful tan. Redness, soreness or tenderness can indicate overexposure and should be treated seriously.

Listen to your skin, wear the provided protective eyewear and end the session if you feel uncomfortable.

Better Tanning Results Begin With the Right Routine

Achieving an even, longer-lasting tan is not about using the highest setting or booking the longest possible session. It comes down to understanding your skin, preparing it properly, choosing the right products, and following professional guidance.

If you are unsure which tanning lotion to use or how long your session should be, speak to the team at The Tan Boutique. We’ll help you choose an approach suited to your skin and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) How can I make my tan last longer?

Moisturise every day, avoid harsh exfoliation once your colour has developed and keep showers warm rather than extremely hot. A suitable tan extender can also help maintain an even-looking glow.

2) Should I exfoliate before using a sunbed?

Gentle exfoliation approximately 24 hours beforehand can create a smoother base. Avoid exfoliating immediately before your session or scrubbing irritated skin.

3) Do tanning lotions contain SPF?

Most indoor tanning lotions do not contain SPF. Always check the label and never assume a tanning lotion protects against UV exposure.

4) Can I use indoor tanning lotion outside?

An indoor tanning lotion should not replace sunscreen outdoors. Use a suitable broad-spectrum sunscreen and follow its application instructions.

5) What should I do if my skin turns red after tanning?

Stop tanning and allow your skin to recover completely. Redness, soreness or tenderness may indicate UV overexposure or sunburn. Seek medical advice if you are concerned.