If you’re researching how to start using sunbeds, the most important thing to understand is that indoor tanning should always be approached gradually and responsibly. Controlled UV exposure can help build colour progressively, but beginners should focus on preparation, session timing, and skin care rather than intensity.

Below is a structured, beginner-friendly guide to help you start safely and build consistent results.

Step 1: Understand Your Skin Type

Before your first session, determine how your skin reacts to sun exposure.

Generally, skin falls into broad categories:

Burns easily, rarely tans
Burns first, then gradually tans
Tans easily with minimal burning
Rarely burns and tans quickly

If you burn very easily, sunbeds may not be suitable. Beginners with lighter skin should always start with shorter sessions.

Step 2: Start With Short Sessions

When learning how to start using sunbeds, less is more.

For your first few sessions:

Keep exposure time short
Allow at least 48 hours between sessions
Monitor how your skin responds

Avoid increasing session length too quickly. Gradual exposure supports more even colour development and reduces irritation.

Step 3: Prepare Your Skin Properly

Skin preparation makes a major difference in results.

✔ Exfoliate 24 Hours Before

Removing dead skin cells helps create a smoother surface for even tanning.

✔ Hydrate Daily

Moisturised skin tans more evenly and retains colour longer.

✔ Avoid Heavy Makeup or Perfume

These can interfere with tanning performance and may cause uneven patches.

Step 4: Use the Right Indoor Tanning Products

If you’re serious about building colour gradually, consider adding a targeted product from our sunbed tan accelerator collection.

Tanning Cream

For those progressing beyond beginner level, our Sunbed Tan Cream can be used before sessions to support deeper colour development. Beginners should start cautiously with lower-intensity formulas.

Tanning Drops

For gradual tone enhancement between sessions, our Tanning Drops can help support controlled colour build-up.

You can explore structured options within our tanning accelerators range to match your experience level.

Step 5: Protect Sensitive Areas

When starting out:

Always wear protective eyewear
Cover sensitive areas if needed
Remove jewellery to avoid uneven lines

Indoor tanning salons typically provide protective guidance — follow it carefully.

Step 6: Build a Consistent Routine

Consistency matters more than intensity.

A beginner schedule often looks like:

1–2 sessions per week
Short durations initially
Gradual increases only if skin responds well

If your goal is faster results, focus on preparation and product support rather than longer sessions. Many people searching how to tan the fastest eventually realise that structure beats overexposure.

Step 7: Maintain and Preserve Your Tan

Once colour begins to develop, maintenance becomes important.

To extend results:

Moisturise daily
Avoid harsh exfoliation
Space sessions responsibly

If you’re unsure how to maintain colour long term, reviewing tips on how to preserve a tan can help prevent uneven fading.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

When learning how to start using sunbeds, avoid:

Jumping straight into long sessions
Skipping hydration
Tanning too frequently without recovery time
Ignoring skin irritation

Your skin needs time to respond and adapt.

Is Indoor Tanning Right for You?

Before starting, consider:

Your skin’s natural sensitivity
Your history of sunburn
Any medical advice related to UV exposure

Indoor tanning involves UV radiation, and overexposure carries risks. A gradual, controlled approach is essential.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering how to start using sunbeds, the safest and most effective approach is simple:

Start short
Space sessions out
Prepare your skin
Use supportive products from our tan accelerator and sunbed tan accelerator collections
Maintain hydration

Building colour gradually will always produce more even, longer-lasting results than rushing the process.

Responsible structure — not intensity — is the key to successful indoor tanning.

How to Start Using Sunbeds