Summary: Tanning beds are a popular way to achieve a beautiful, sun-kissed complexion without the harmful UV rays from the sun. Planet Fitness provides state-of-the-art tanning beds for its members. If you are new to tanning beds or new to Planet Fitness, read on to learn how to use the tanning beds at Planet Fitness safely and effectively.
1. Preparing for Your Tan
Before using the tanning beds at Planet Fitness, it is crucial to prepare your skin and body for the session. Firstly, ensure that you have no makeup or lotion on your skin. Any product applied to your skin can block UV rays from reaching your skin and lower the effectiveness of the tan. The beds are cleaned by gym staff, but it is a good practice to wipe down the tanning bed with disinfectant wipes before use. Additionally, avoid wearing tight clothing as it may cause uneven tanning or marks on the skin.
Avoid using tanning lotions or oils before tanning in the beds as they may damage the equipment and tarnish the tanning bed surfaces. If you want to use a product to aid in tanning, choose a product designed specifically for indoor tanning as these products will not damage the equipment.
Stay hydrated before and after the bed session. Drinking lots of water can help you get a better tan and prevent dehydration, which can lead to premature aging and health complications.
2. Lesser Known Facts About Tanning Beds
Tanning beds can be a safe and healthy alternative to sunbathing. However, there are a few myths around tanning beds that you should ignore. For instance, many people believe that tanning beds can cause vitamin D deficiency. This is untrue. Tanning beds emit UVB rays that help the body produce vitamin D just like the sun. However, this should be approached with caution, and it’s important not to overexpose your skin to the tanning bed.
Also, some people think that tanning beds pose no risk to the eyes. This is entirely false. It is vital to use protective eyewear when tanning indoors. Exposing your eyes to UV rays can cause cataracts or other eye complications. Planet Fitness offers complimentary goggles for members, but you can also purchase disposable eyewear.
Tanning beds produce a light of their own, and they could whiten and weaken tattoos or freckles on the body. In addition, it may take several minutes for bulbs to warm up, so do not turn off the bed prematurely.
3. Deciding on Your Tanning Bed Session Time
Before tanning, decide on how long you wish to stay in the tanning bed for the first time. To avoid sunburns, we recommend starting with a short session before building up the time over weeks. Most tanning sessions range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the level of bed you choose.
If you have fair or sensitive skin, it may be essential to start with a shorter session and gradually increase it to avoid sunburn. Sunburns can cause skin dryness, redness, and irritation, leading to further complications such as peeling and/or melanoma over time.
If you are pregnant or taking any medication, consult with your health care provider before using tanning beds. Some medications could react negatively with the UV rays, causing severe sunburns or allergic reactions.
4. Using Tanning Additives
If you want to maximize the effect of the tanning bed by darkening the skin, consider using tanning additives that can stimulate the production of melanin, a skin pigment that darkens the skin naturally. Some lotions and sprays sold by Planet Fitness are infused with bronzing or intensifying agents that enhance the tan results.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the product regarding use; too much product can lead to unsatisfactory results. Do not use outdoor tanning lotions in tanning beds, as these products contain ingredients like mineral oil that can damage the equipment.
Remember to consult the staff for advice on responsible tanning practices and the best products that work well with the tanning bed. Using the right products will keep your skin healthy and help you achieve the desired results.
5. Post-Tanning Bed Session Care
After the tanning bed session, take a cool shower to remove any excess lotion or sweat on the skin. This also helps soothe and refresh the skin after exposure to UV rays.
Apply moisturizing lotion or cream to keep your skin hydrated. Hydration maintains an even, natural tan and helps to prevent skin peeling or dryness. You can also use aloe vera to soothe sunburns or redness on the skin caused by the tanning bed.
Remember to avoid sun exposure the same day you tan. Tanning beds affect the skin in similar ways as sunbathing, so overexposure can have severe health consequences. Always wait for a few days after tanning before exposing your skin to the sun again.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tanning beds provide a safe and healthy option for achieving a beautiful, sun-kissed complexion. At Planet Fitness, their top-of-the-class equipment and well-trained staff ensure a positive tanning experience. Remember to prepare your skin, choose a suitable bed, and use protective eyewear while taking caution not to overdo it. A good maintenance routine after tanning sessions will also keep your skin healthy, glowing, and looking its best.