How Often Should You Use a Tanning Bed?

Tanning Beds: Popular, Pricey—and Riskier Than You Think

Tanning beds have become a go-to option for people chasing a bronze glow year-round. From teens prepping for prom to adults getting vacation-ready, millions step into tanning beds hoping for fast results. But while the appeal is obvious, the long-term costs—both to your skin and wallet—are harder to ignore.

That’s why questions like “How often should you use a tanning bed?” and “How many tanning sessions to get a base tan?” aren’t just common—they’re critical. People want that golden glow, but they’re also starting to question the tradeoffs: repeated UV exposure, aging skin, rising prices, and the sheer hassle of it all.

The truth? What seems like a simple beauty routine may be exposing your skin to more damage than you realize—and draining more of your time and money than it’s worth.

What to Expect in This Guide

In the sections ahead, you’ll find:

• How often you should use a tanning bed (and when it becomes too much)

• How many tanning sessions it takes to get a base tan or deeper bronze

• Why so many people are switching from tanning salons to safer, smarter alternatives

• How the IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN, an at-home spray tan system gives you long-lasting, professional results—without harming your skin

If you’re ready to rethink your tanning routine, this guide will help you make an informed choice—one that your skin (and schedule) will thank you for.

Let’s dive in.

Understanding How Tanning Beds Work

Tanning beds use artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation to darken your skin. Most commercial beds emit both UV-A and UV-B rays—both of which penetrate the skin at different depths and trigger melanin production. While this may give you a bronzed look on the surface, the biological response underneath is far from harmless.

What UV-A and UV-B Exposure Really Does to Your Skin

• UV-A rays penetrate deeper into the skin’s dermis and are linked to long-term damage like wrinkles, fine lines, and skin aging.

• UV-B rays are shorter and more intense—they’re responsible for sunburn and direct DNA damage, increasing your skin cancer risk.

Together, these rays stimulate melanocytes, which produce melanin—the pigment that gives skin a tanned look. But the tan isn’t actually “healthy”—it’s your skin’s defense mechanism against UV damage.

The Myth of the Safe Tan

Many people assume that moderate tanning is harmless, especially if they don’t burn. But UV damage is cumulative, even if you only tan once or twice a week. Every session causes small but lasting harm to your skin’s DNA. Over time, this can lead to:

• Wrinkles and sagging due to collagen breakdown

• Dark spots and hyperpigmentation

• Increased risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer

Uneven Tanning and Missed Spots

Despite how controlled tanning beds seem, they don’t always deliver consistent results. Your body’s curves—underarms, lower back, behind the knees—often don’t receive even exposure, leading to patchy color and awkward tan lines. This is especially frustrating when you're paying for precision.

Instead of exposing your skin to harmful UV rays, IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN uses Magnetic Skin Technology to deliver a fine, wrap-around mist that covers every contour of your body—without rubbing, booth appointments, or health risks.

Plus, with its vegan, skin-friendly formula, you can achieve your ideal tan without the side effects that come with traditional tanning beds.

How Often Should I Use a Tanning Bed?

It’s one of the most searched questions in the tanning world:
How often should you use a tanning bed to get a base tan—or maintain your glow without going overboard?

The short answer: Even occasional use poses risks. But let’s look at what most people do, and why those habits might be doing more harm than good.

Even people with darker skin tones face UV-related damage with frequent use. For lighter skin types, even one or two tanning bed sessions a week can be dangerous.

General Guidelines (Not Endorsements)

Many tanning salons suggest:

• 2 to 3 sessions per week to build a base tan

• 1 session per week to maintain it

But these recommendations are marketing-driven, not medically approved. In reality, this level of exposure adds up quickly—especially over months or years.

Replace Recurring Risk with Consistent, Healthy Results

Why keep exposing your skin to damage when there’s a smarter alternative?

IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN gives you that golden glow without the price tag of monthly memberships or the health risks of UV radiation.

Whether you're prepping for vacation or refreshing your glow at home, IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN helps you skip the salon and take control of your tan on your own terms—without compromising your skin’s future.

How Many Tanning Sessions to Get a Base Tan?

What Is a Base Tan—And Why Do People Want One?

Many people turn to tanning beds to build what's often called a "base tan"—a light layer of color they hope will protect their skin from sunburn during vacations or summer outings. The idea is that a slight tan from indoor sessions will serve as a barrier against future UV damage.

But here’s the reality: a base tan is not protective. According to dermatologists, it offers the equivalent of SPF 2 to 4 at most—nowhere near what your skin needs to stay safe outdoors.

So when people ask how many tanning sessions to get a base tan, the real answer should start with another question:
Is it worth damaging your skin for something that barely works?

How Many Tanning Sessions to Get a Tan?

What If You Want More Than Just a Base?

If you’re wondering how many tanning sessions to get a tan that’s deeper and longer-lasting, the truth is that it varies widely depending on your skin type, the bed intensity, and how often you go.

But before we break down the numbers, keep this in mind: the deeper the tan, the greater the risk to your skin.

Factors That Influence Tan Development

1. Skin Tone
   Lighter skin takes longer to develop color and is more prone to burning. Darker skin tans faster but is still at risk for hyperpigmentation and long-term UV damage.

2. Tanning Bed Intensity (Level 1–5)

• Level 1 beds = lower intensity, longer sessions

• Level 4–5 beds = high intensity, more UV-A, faster color—and higher skin cancer risk

3. Session Length & Frequency
   Typical sessions last 6 to 12 minutes. The more often you tan, the more cumulative the damage—even if you're not visibly burning.

A High Price for a Short-Term Glow

Let’s not forget: each of these tanning sessions costs money—and adds risk.

• Weekly tanning for 6 months = ~$500

• Add tips, time lost, and product add-ons: the price climbs even higher

• And in the end? A temporary tan that fades within a week, unless you keep going back

More tanning doesn’t mean better results—it just means more damage and more dollars spent chasing something that will fade anyway.

Want a deeper, longer-lasting tan without the damage? IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN gives you control over your tone with buildable, natural-looking results that last 7 to 9 days per use—no UV required.

Risks of Frequent Tanning Bed Use

Tanning Beds Don’t Just Tan—They Damage

Most people don’t ask how often should you use a tanning bed with long-term consequences in mind. They’re focused on getting color fast. But regular tanning bed use isn't just a habit—it’s a risk. Even “moderate” use causes real harm that adds up over time.

Increased Risk of Melanoma and Skin Cancer

The most serious consequence of frequent tanning is the elevated risk of skin cancer—especially melanoma, the deadliest form.

• People who use tanning beds before age 35 increase their melanoma risk by up to 75%.

• Even occasional sessions increase your likelihood of developing basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

And the irony? The tan that makes skin look healthy is a sign your skin is actively being damaged.

Premature Aging, Eye Damage, and Hyperpigmentation

Tanning beds don’t just raise cancer risks—they accelerate the aging process.

• UV-A rays penetrate deep into the skin, breaking down collagen and elastin, which leads to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging.

• Hyperpigmentation (sunspots, liver spots) becomes more common with repeated exposure.

• Without proper eye protection, UV exposure from tanning beds can cause cataracts and even long-term vision problems.

So when you’re calculating how many tanning sessions to get a base tan, consider this: the more you go, the more irreversible damage you cause.

Tanning Bed Regulations Reflect the Danger

Across the globe, health agencies and dermatology organizations are warning against tanning beds:

• In many countries, minors are banned from using them altogether.

• Several U.S. states require warning signs and parental consent.

If medical professionals don’t recommend it, and regulations keep tightening, it’s worth asking:
Why keep paying for something so clearly harmful?

Safer Alternatives to Tanning Beds

Good News: You Can Glow Without the Risk

If you want a tan without UV damage, the beauty industry now offers several safer alternatives—each more skin-friendly than traditional tanning beds.

Spray Tans (Salon-Based)

Salon spray tans are often the first alternative people try when ditching tanning beds. These use DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a sugar-derived ingredient that interacts with dead skin cells to produce a temporary tan. Just like tanning beds, these also add up over time—especially if you tan regularly. Unfortunately, they’re often inconsistent on curves and hard-to-reach areas.

Regular Self-Tanning Lotions and Mousses

These are popular for at-home use. They use the same DHA-based mechanism as spray tans but require manual application. But it’s also time-consuming—requiring gloves, long drying times, and constant touch-ups.

IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN

The newest and most efficient option is the contactless device—the IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN. It’s the only method that delivers salon-quality precision with self-tanning convenience.

Why Choose IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN Over Everything Else?

Let’s be honest—none of the alternatives are worth it if they’re messy, uneven, or a hassle. That’s where IONIQ ONE stands out.

It combines:

• The evenness of a spray tan

• The flexibility of a self-tanner

• And the innovation of a tech-enhanced skincare device

All without compromising your skin’s health—or draining your wallet month after month.

Why the IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN Is a Game-Changer

A Smarter Way to Tan

When most people think of tanning, they picture salons, appointments, awkward booths, and messy routines. The IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN completely changes that experience. It blends cutting-edge beauty technology with skin-first ingredients to give you a tan that’s fast, even, and UV-free. Whether you’re new to tanning or tired of wondering how many tanning sessions you need to get a base tan, IONIQ offers a better way—one that fits your life and protects your skin.

Even Application, Zero Streaks

Thanks to Magnetic Skin Technology, the IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN produces a fine, wraparound mist that’s pulled evenly to your skin—covering every curve and contour. There’s no rubbing, no blotching, and no bending to get your back.

Hard-to-reach zones are easily covered. Curves, knees, and elbows blend smoothly. Streaks? Gone. This solves one of the biggest complaints about tanning beds: uneven results caused by fixed angles and limited control.

No UV Damage, No Compromises

Tanning beds expose your skin to high levels of UV radiation, increasing your risk of wrinkles, sunspots, and even melanoma. In contrast, the IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN uses a DHA-based formula that tans only the outermost skin layer—safely and gently, with no DNA damage or long-term harm.

Instead of worrying how often you should use a tanning bed without damaging your skin, IONIQ gives you a worry-free, sunless solution.

Long-Lasting Glow with Just One Use

With traditional beds, maintaining a tan means weekly visits, ongoing fees, and constant UV exposure. But IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN delivers lasting results after just one 3-minute session.

Your color develops within 6 to 8 hours and lasts up to 9 days. No maintenance appointments. No waiting. Just smarter tanning on your terms.

Mess-Free, Touch-Free, Stress-Free

Traditional self-tanners usually involve gloves, blotting, sticky hands, and stained sheets. IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN is touch-free from start to finish. Its colorless formula won’t rub off on your clothing or furniture.

Tanning Bed vs. IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN: 

If you’re still deciding between salon tanning bed sessions and a smarter self-tanning option, this chart lays it out clearly:

If you're still calculating how many tanning sessions to get a tan or wondering how often you should use a tanning bed without harming your skin—maybe it's time to stop.

With the IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN, there is just fast, flawless, feel-good tanning—on your schedule, at your convenience.

It’s one thing to hear about the dangers of tanning beds or the benefits of self-tanning—it’s another to see the results firsthand. Many former salon tanners have already made the switch to the IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN—not because they had to, but because they wanted a safer, easier, and more effective alternative.

Why Frequent Tanners Are Switching

People who used to wonder how often should you use a tanning bed or how many tanning sessions to get a tan now find they only need one 3-minute mist to get the glow they want—with zero risk and zero stress.

With IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN, the focus shifts from frequency to freedom:

• Tan on your schedule, not the salon’s

• See results in hours, not days or weeks

• Protect your skin, instead of compromising it

Environmental & Ethical Considerations

The Hidden Footprint of Tanning Beds

Tanning beds aren't just hard on your skin—they're rough on the environment too.

• Energy Consumption: High-powered bulbs draw significant electricity. Multiply that by thousands of beds running daily across the world, and it adds up fast.

• Cooling Systems: Most salons run air conditioning nearly non-stop to balance the heat from tanning equipment—driving energy use even higher.

• Disposables: Towels, liners, and wipes used between each tanning session contribute to excess waste.

When you think about how many tanning sessions you’ll need just to maintain a glow, the environmental impact grows just as fast as the costs.

A Cleaner, Greener Way to Tan

The IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN was designed not only to deliver flawless results, but to do so in a way that aligns with today’s environmental and ethical values.

Here’s how:

• Vegan, cruelty-free formula 

• No wasteful trips: Eliminate unnecessary travel, tips, and disposable salon supplies

Better for Your Skin. Better for the Planet.

Switching from a tanning bed to IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN isn’t just a personal choice—it’s an ethical one. You’ll reduce your environmental footprint while protecting your skin from damage, aging, and unnecessary chemical exposure.

Instead of asking how often should you use a tanning bed, ask this:
What’s the smarter, safer, and more sustainable way to get a tan?

Tanning Isn’t Just About Time—It’s About Money, Too

If you're still debating how often should you use a tanning bed or how many tanning sessions to get a base tan, the answer isn’t just in your skin—it’s in your wallet too.

Let’s break down what tanning beds really cost over time.

The True Cost of Tanning Bed Use

On the surface, a $20–$40 tanning session may not seem expensive. But most tanners go 2–3 times per week to build and maintain color. Here’s what that adds up to:

• Average visit cost: $30 (session + tip + parking or transport)

• Monthly usage (8–12 sessions): $240–$360

• Annual estimate: $620 to $840 (for moderate users)—often more

And that doesn’t include:

• Travel time or lost productivity

• Add-ons like lotions, goggles, or “upgraded beds”

• Higher-end salon pricing or memberships

The Hidden Cost: Skin Repair and Aging Prevention

Frequent tanning comes with long-term consequences for your skin. The costs of reversing that damage add up:

• Anti-aging skincare routines: $50–$150/month

• Dermatology treatments for hyperpigmentation or sunspots: $200–$1,000+ per session

• Medical treatments for UV-related conditions: Potentially thousands

Over time, tanning beds become one of the most expensive ways to get a tan—financially and biologically.

A Better Investment: The IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN

The IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN flips the entire model. Instead of paying per visit or membership, you get an at-home solution that delivers flawless, even results every time you use it—without travel, appointments, or hidden add-ons.

With just a few refills, you can achieve 2–3 full-body tans per cartridge. Over 6 to 12 months, the cost of glowing skin drops significantly—while your skin stays healthier, smoother, and more even.

Dermatologist Perspectives: What the Experts Recommend

Medical Experts Are Clear: Avoid Tanning Beds

If you're still asking how often should you use a tanning bed, consider what skin health experts have been saying for years—don’t use them at all.

Here’s what leading dermatology organizations have to say:

American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

• “Indoor tanning devices are proven to cause skin cancer.”

• The AAD warns that even occasional use increases your risk of melanoma, especially if you begin before age 35.

• Their recommendation? Opt for self-tanning products instead.

Skin Cancer Foundation

• Cites tanning beds as a primary risk factor for early-onset skin cancers.

• Emphasizes that “a tan is a sign of skin damage—not health.”

World Health Organization (WHO)

• Classifies tanning beds as Group 1 carcinogens, on the same list as tobacco and asbestos.

• Calls for public awareness of the long-term risks, including eye damage, burns, and premature aging.

What Do Dermatologists Recommend Instead?

Across the board, dermatologists recommend:

• Using sunless tanning products with DHA (dihydroxyacetone)

• Choosing formulas that are non-irritating, non-toxic, and mess-free

• Avoiding UV exposure in all forms—including tanning beds

That’s why devices like the IONIQ ONE Sprayer, an at-home spray tan machine are gaining support. They deliver professional-quality results without the risks that concern every medical expert in the skin health field.

So, How Often Should You Use a Tanning Bed?

The real answer:
You shouldn’t.

Not when there’s a safer, smarter, and more cost-effective way to tan—on your terms. Why settle for damage, cost, and inconvenience when you can tan the smart way?

Whether you’ve been tanning weekly or just starting to explore safer options, now’s the time to make the switch.

Smart tanning starts with smarter tools—IONIQ ONE Sprayer + TAN delivers just that.
Ready to glow without the risk?