How The Skin Tans
Understanding how the skin tans helps you get the most out of every sunbed session, safely and effectively. Our natural skin colour is determined by a pigment called melanin, and how much melanin we have is largely down to hereditary factors. When our skin is exposed to UV, cells deep within it called melanocytes are triggered to produce more melanin. This melanin rises to the surface and browns, creating a tan, while the outer layer of skin also thickens slightly as a natural form of protection against further UV exposure.
Why Building a Tan Gradually Matters
Melanin production takes time to build, which is exactly why short, regular sessions work far better than trying to rush the process. Overexposing your skin doesn’t create a deeper tan any faster, it simply increases the risk of sunburn. Our skin does have a natural repair mechanism, but if it is triggered too often, it can become exhausted, leading to permanent damage rather than a lasting glow. A steady, well managed approach protects your skin while still building beautiful colour over time.
Why Everyone Tans Differently
Because melanin production is hereditary, no two people tan in exactly the same way. Some people develop colour quickly and easily, while others, particularly those with very fair skin, produce very little melanin regardless of UV exposure, meaning they will always be more prone to burning than tanning. This is exactly why an individual tanning consultation matters so much, understanding your own skin type means every session can be tailored to what is genuinely safe and effective for you, rather than a one size fits all approach.
How We Keep Every Session Safe
At Glow Tanning and Beauty, every client receives an individual tanning consultation, including medical history and skin typing, before their first session. All of our sunbeds are 0.3 EU compliant, so you can relax knowing your tan is being managed responsibly from day one. Our team is always on hand to talk through the right programme for your skin type, whether you are building a base tan for the first time or maintaining your colour with regular top up sessions.
Getting the Most From Your Sunbed Sessions
A base tan is typically built through two to three UV sessions in a row, spaced no more than three days apart. Leaving longer gaps between early sessions means the melanocytes can recede back to their resting state, meaning the process effectively has to start again. Once your base tan is established, regular maintenance sessions help keep your colour looking rich and even, alongside a good moisturising routine at home.
Looking after your skin outside of your sessions matters just as much as the tanning itself. Dry skin sheds more readily, taking your tan with it layer by layer, so keeping skin well hydrated before and after each session helps your colour last significantly longer. A good tanning lotion can also improve comfort during sessions and support the skin’s natural moisture levels throughout your tanning programme.
When to Take a Break From Tanning
Everyone’s skin has its limits, and knowing when to ease off is just as important as knowing how to build a tan safely. If your skin feels tight, sore, or unusually sensitive after a session, that is a sign it needs time to recover before your next visit. Our therapists are always happy to talk through your programme and adjust session length or frequency if needed, safe tanning is always about working with your skin, not against it.
Ready to start your tanning journey the right way? Explore our full range of sunbeds, including the Luxura X7 and Sunless V58 Unique, or get in touch to book your consultation today.