How long before a vacation should I begin tanning, and how much should I tan?
I would start at LEAST 3 weeks before a vacation. it is imortant you build a base tan. The best types of beds for you would be a “medium pressure bed”. Medium pressure beds contain a lower level of UVB rays (burning rays) and a higher level of UVA rays (bronzing rays). It has enough of the UVB to help you build some resistance to the buring rays from the sun. HOwever still be sure to wear some SPF when outside… no tanning bed, no matter how tan you get can fully prevent buning because the sun still has much more powerful UVB rays than a tanning bed. Also, be sure to get some tanning lotion when you go to the salon to keep your skin moisturized and to help maximize your results. (using a tanning lotion can increase your tan by up to 80%) Also, shower before tanning, and exfloiate 2 times a week to whisk off dead skin cells which can build up and clog your pores, preventing you from tanning.
