Posted On: 07/30/2025
Whether you’re preparing for a vacation, a special event, or just looking to boost your glow, your first time UV tanning can feel a little intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and guidance, your glow-up journey can be smooth, safe, and satisfying. These expert-backed tanning tips for beginners cover everything from prepping your skin to avoiding common myths and mistakes.
New to tanning? Boca Tanning Club makes it easy to get your glow on.
1. Understand Your Options: Spray vs. UV Tanning
Before you step into a tanning salon, it’s helpful to understand the different options available so you can make a choice that fits your skin type, goals, and comfort level. UV tanning uses beds or booths that emit ultraviolet light to gradually darken your skin. Spray tanning, like the Versa Spa Sunless Tan, offers an instant glow with no UV exposure by applying a fine mist of bronzing solution.
Not sure which to choose? The teams at our Coral Springs Tanning Salon, Central Boca Location, or East Boca Tanning Salon can walk you through your options and help you decide what works best for your skin type and goals. Whether you’re preparing for a vacation, special event, or just want a healthy-looking glow year-round, we’re here to ensure you get the results you want safely and confidently. With professional guidance, high-quality products, and a variety of tanning services, achieving your ideal shade has never been easier.
2. Prep Your Skin the Right Way
A flawless tan doesn’t just happen; it starts with smart preparation. One day before your session, exfoliate thoroughly to remove dry, flaky skin and create a smooth canvas for your tan. Use a non-oily body scrub or exfoliating mitt in gentle, circular motions, focusing on rough patches like your elbows, knees, ankles, and heels. These areas can absorb more product and appear uneven if not properly treated.
If you plan to shave or wax, do so at least 24 hours ahead of time to avoid irritation. On the day of your appointment, come with clean, product-free skin, no lotion, oils, deodorant, or perfume as they can interfere with both sunless and UV tanning results. Prepped skin allows for even absorption and a longer-lasting, natural-looking glow.
3. Dress Smart for Your UV Tanning Appointment
Your outfit can influence how your tan develops, especially after a spray session. Wear loose, dark-colored clothing to avoid rubbing off product or staining light fabrics, tight clothing can cause streaks, especially with sunless tans like Versa Spa.
For UV tanning, protective eyewear is essential to shield your eyes from UV rays. Bring your own or use what’s provided at the salon. Also, skip makeup and deodorant prior to your session, especially if you’re new to tanning. These products can cause patchiness or prevent the tanning solution from setting evenly, so less is definitely more.
4. Know How Long to Stay In
If you’re new to UV tanning, start slow. Sessions usually begin at 5–7 minutes, depending on your skin type and the specific tanning bed. Gradually building up your exposure allows your skin to adapt safely without burning or overexposure.
Not ready for UV yet? Red light therapy is a gentle, beginner-friendly option with zero UV exposure. It enhances collagen production, supports skin healing, and leaves your skin feeling refreshed. It won’t darken your skin, but it’s a great complement to any skincare or tanning routine.
5. Busting UV Tanning Myths
There’s no shortage of tanning myths, but many are outdated or flat-out wrong. Let’s clear a few up:
Myth: You have to burn first to get a tan.
Truth: Burning damages your skin and raises your risk of skin problems. A gradual tan is safer, healthier, and more attractive.
Myth: A base tan protects you from sunburn.
Truth: A base tan offers minimal protection about SPF 3 at most. You’ll still need sunscreen for outdoor sun exposure.
Myth: Spray tans always look orange.
Truth: Not anymore. Modern formulas like the Versa Spa Sunless Tan deliver a natural-looking, streak-free finish when applied correctly.
Curious about more tanning truths? Visit our FAQ page for expert answers to your top tanning questions.
Want more facts? Check out our FAQ page for answers to common tanning questions.
6. Choose the Right Products for Aftercare
Your post-tan routine matters just as much as your prep. Use a high-quality, hydrating lotion or a tan extender daily to lock in moisture and extend your glow. Ingredients like aloe, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter can help keep your skin soft and reduce fading or peeling.
Avoid long, hot showers, saunas, and harsh exfoliants right after tanning. Gentle care goes a long way. If you’re using red light therapy regularly, you’ll likely notice your skin feeling smoother and more hydrated, an ideal canvas for maintaining a radiant tan.
7. Stay Safe with UV Tanning
Safety should always be your top priority when tanning. Follow the salon’s recommended session times based on your skin type and previous exposure. Overexposure doesn’t lead to a faster tan; it just increases the risk of burns and long-term skin damage.
Always wear FDA-compliant protective eyewear during UV sessions. At Boca Tanning Club, our equipment is maintained for optimal safety and cleanliness. And if you’re looking for a UV-free option, our East Boca Tanning Salon offers red light therapy, which promotes skin wellness without any UV rays.
8. Space Out Your Sessions
More isn’t always better when it comes to tanning. Give your skin time to rest and develop color naturally. For UV tanning, 2–3 sessions per week is typically enough for beginners, gradually adjusting based on your skin’s response.
Spray tans last about 5–7 days, so once a week is usually enough to maintain your glow. Overdoing it can lead to uneven fading or skin dryness. Need a quick refresh? Our Coral Springs Tanning Salon offers convenient walk-in appointments and professional touch-ups when you’re short on time.
9. Hydrate Inside and Out
Hydrated skin not only feels better, but it also holds a tan longer. Be sure to drink plenty of water before and after your appointment to support skin health from within. Dehydrated skin tends to flake and fade faster.
Topically, apply a nourishing moisturizer daily to lock in your color and prevent peeling. Look for formulas with aloe vera, glycerin, or coconut oil. If your skin is dry or sun-exposed, layering hydration will help your tan stay smooth and vibrant for days longer.
10. Plan Ahead to Maintain Your Tan
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to tan maintenance. Avoid soaking in hot tubs, chlorinated pools, or taking long, steamy showers, as these can cause premature fading. Always pat yourself dry with a towel, never rub and apply moisturizer right after bathing.
To even out fading or extend your tan, use salon-recommended touch-up sprays or tan extenders. Our team is happy to recommend the right products to help you maintain a consistent, glowing color. With the right care, your tan can stay fresh, flawless, and confidence-boosting all week long.
Final Thoughts: Glow Smart from Day One
The secret to a beautiful tan is preparation, consistency, and choosing the right place to begin your journey. Boca Tanning Club is here to guide you every step of the way from your first session to long-term skin wellness.
New to tanning? Boca Tanning Club makes it easy to get your glow on.
Have more questions? Contact us anytime. We’d love to help. You can also check out our FAQ Page for more information.