Why Aren't Your Legs Tanning in the Tanning Bed? Tips for an All-Over Tan

Troubleshooting Tanning Bed Issues: Why Aren't My Legs Tanning?

Using tanning beds to achieve a sun-kissed glow is a popular option. But a common frustration is when the legs fail to tan as much as desired in the tanning bed, remaining pale or spotty while other areas like the face and torso tan nicely. There are a few possible reasons why the legs arent tanning with the rest of the body and strategies to help get an even, all-over tan from the tanning bed.

How Tanning Beds Work

Before exploring why the legs arent tanning, it helps to understand whats happening in the body during tanning bed use. Tanning beds emit concentrated doses of UVA and UVB light that is absorbed by the skin. This exposure triggers increased production of melanin, which is the skins natural pigment.

Melanin darkens in color as it accumulates in the skins cells in response to UV exposure. This causes a cosmetic tan to develop. With repeated tanning sessions, the melanin builds up more and more leading to a deeper, darker tan.

General Tanning Tips

To achieve an all-over tan, here are some general tanning bed tips:

• Exfoliate skin before tanning to remove any dead skin or residue.
• Use a tanning accelerator product for enhanced results.
• Increase exposure time gradually over multiple sessions.
• Use goggles to protect the sensitive eye area.
• Rotate position from back to stomach to tan all areas.
• Apply aloe vera gel afterward to soothe any redness.

With these best practices, the entire body including the legs should tan evenly. But sometimes the legs lag behind the rest of the body, so further troubleshooting is needed.

Why Aren't My Legs Tanning in the Tanning Bed?

There are a few possible explanations for why the legs refuse to tan as much with tanning bed use:

Not Enough Exposure

The most obvious reason legs aren't tanning is not getting adequate exposure time for that area. Tanning occurs in a dose-dependent manner, so skin needs sufficient UV light to stimulate melanin production.

If new to tanning, starting with the minimum exposure times means the legs may not be getting enough UV dosage. Gradually increasing session length over several visits allows a deeper tan to build.

Also make sure to rotate body position during sessions. Lying only on the back may lead to less exposure to the legs compared to other areas.

Thicker Skin on Legs

The skin on the legs is naturally thicker than other body areas like the face, chest and stomach. This means UV light has to penetrate deeper to trigger tanning of the basal layer where melanocytes reside.

So while the same UV dose from a tanning bed may tan the face and torso, it may not be enough to stimulate pigment changes deep within the legs thicker skin. Allowing longer exposure times gives the light more chance to reach melanin-producing cells.

Dry Skin on Legs

Dry, flaky skin on the legs can also impede tanning capabilities. UV light has trouble penetrating through rough, scaly patches. Plus, dry skin has difficulty producing melanin efficiently even when exposed.

Exfoliating intensely before tanning removes dead skin so UV can reach living cells. Using a rich moisturizer immediately after sessions also prevents water loss and keeps leg skin smooth.

Hair Blocking UV Rays

For those with hairy legs, all that hair can get in the way of the tanning process. Hair naturally absorbs and blocks some of the incoming UV rays trying to reach the skin.

Shaving the legs thoroughly before tanning eliminates this barrier so more UV light can interact with skin instead of being absorbed by leg hair. Waxing or other hair removal methods also work.

Using Sunscreen on Legs

Diligent use of sunscreen on the legs when outdoors is healthy. But for tanning goals, sunscreen prevents UV light from stimulating melanin properly.

Be sure to wash legs thoroughly before tanning to remove any lingering sunscreen. Waterproof formulas may also need gentle scrubbing with soap to fully dissolve and eliminate the protective barriers.

Certain Medications

Some types of medications are known to either inhibit melanin production or increase photosensitivity. Common examples include certain blood pressure medications, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics.

If taking any prescriptions, check with a pharmacist or doctor to see if they could potentially interfere with tanning capabilities. Adjustments to medications or tanning may be needed.

How to Get Your Legs to Tan

Once you know whats causing tanning issues with the legs, there are solutions to help them catch up to the rest of your tan. Here are some tips for getting your legs nicely tanned:

Exfoliate Properly

Exfoliating is key when prepping legs to tan. Scrubbing with a loofah, dry brushing, or using chemical exfoliants ensures removal of dead skin so UV can interact with fresh skin.

Be sure to exfoliate a day or two before tanning rather than right before. This allows the skin barrier to rebuild for better light absorption without irritation.

Shave Leg Hair

Eliminating leg hair through shaving, waxing, epilating or other methods enables UV light to reach the skin better. Try to remove hair the day before tanning for optimal smoothness.

Shaving too soon before tanning could lead to irritation. Waxing and epilating pull hair from the root so can be done several days prior with no irritation to freshly tanned skin.

Moisturize Thoroughly

Dry, dehydrated skin on the legs struggles to tan. Intense moisturizing restores hydration so legs can produce melanin efficiently.

Apply a rich lotion immediately after tanning while skin is still warm and pores are open. Shea butter, coconut oil and thick creams are excellent options. Reapply daily between sessions.

Use a Tanning Accelerator

Tanning accelerators use ingredients like tyrosine and melanin to optimize the tanning process. Applying an accelerator before sessions can help speed up lagging areas like the legs.

Look for easy-to-apply formulas like sprays, gels or lotions. Be sure to wash hands after application to avoid discolored palms.

Increase Tanning Bed Exposure Times

If legs are still not catching up to your desired tan level, gradually bump up the time in tanning bed sessions. Add 1-2 minutes per session until the legs tan to your preferred tone.

Keep in mind that exposure limits for a full body tan are typically 20-30 minutes max. Honor your skin's limits and avoid overdoing it.

Try Alternating Positions

Lying on your back may mean legs receive less direct UV exposure. Switching up positions, such as tanning front and back, enables both sides to absorb more light.

You can also try propping up legs vertically against the tanning bed wall if your unit allows. Just be cautious not to touch the bulbs and burn yourself.

Consider Professional Spray Tanning

If your legs continue to give you trouble despite all troubleshooting methods, professional spray tanning is an option. Airbrush tanning solutions provide instant bronzing results without exposure to UV rays.

See a reputable professional for full body spray tanning to achieve beautifully bronzed legs and complete tan coverage.

Risks and Precautions with Tanning Beds

While following tips to get your legs to tan in the tanning bed, its important to take proper safety precautions as well:

• Use FDA-approved eyewear to protect eyes and eyelids.
• Dont exceed maximum recommended exposure times.
• Allow 48 hours between tanning sessions for skin to rest.
• Inspect skin and report any unusual moles or spots to a dermatologist.
• Discontinue use if burning or rashes develop.
• Avoid tanning if pregnant or taking photosensitive medications.

Overexposure to UV light carries increased risk of skin cancer and melanoma. Maintain awareness of safe usage guidelines and limits.

Signs of Tanning Bed Overexposure

Watch for these signs of too much time in the tanning bed:

• Burning, stinging sensation during or after tanning
• Redness, soreness, peeling of the skin
• Itching, dry skin, rashes
• Blistering or swelling
• Nausea, dizziness, headache

If any concerning reaction occurs, stop tanning immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe. Adjust your exposure schedule to avoid overdoing it.

Achieving That Perfect Bronze Tan

With some diligent prep work, methodical exposure, and proper moisturizing, those stubborn legs should start catching up to the rest of your tan in no time. Be patient, allow the process to build gradually, and stick to responsible usage recommendations.

Getting a beautifully bronzed, even all-over tan takes a little work but feels amazing when you look in the mirror and see gorgeous glowing skin. Love the skin youre in and treat it kindly.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.