After you have the base tan, then you would need to spend thirty minutes at a time at least three to five times per week to maintain the tan. This stage will last for approximately four weeks. After that, two to three times per week would be all that was needed to maintain your tan.

These conventional beds are available in all types of places from tanning salons to health clubs. Single tan prices are available at most, however tanning packages make indoor tanning much more affordable. The cost can range anywhere from five to ten dollars for a single tan, but the cost to purchase multiple tans (tanning package) greatly reduces the price. The cost to purchase a traditional UVA/UVB bed for your home ranges anywhere from $1,500 and up to $6,000 dollars. The cost for a UVA only bed is much higher. On average the cost for an at home UVA only bed ranges from $10,000 all the way up to $40,000 dollars. The reason the cost is so different is that with a UVA only bed you need only tan three to five times at a moderate exposure for about ten to fourteen days to develop a nice tan.

Now we all know that all forms of UV light are damaging and prolonged exposure can age your skin and increase your chance of skin damage. Still, if you're going to tan, and most of you do like a nice bronze tan and will continue to expose yourself to these rays even with the warnings, you should tan responsibly! The best way to achieve a tan, and save your skin a little, would be to tan in the indoor tanning beds a little and use a sunless tanning spray. Excessive use of indoor tanning really can increase your chances of skin cancer (for those that are prone), wrinkles and damage to your retinas.

Regardless of what anyone says exposure to ultra violet rays is not healthy. So if you insist on using tanning beds just make sure to follow all the rules. Always make sure to wear eye protection, and limit your time in the bed to prevent burning. Yes, you can still burn in a tanning bed! And if you’re not wearing a bathing suit, and that is completely up to you, make sure you don’t burn in delicate areas. Also be sure to wipe down the bed with the disinfectant provided by the salon or club. A dirty bed can spread germs extremely fast! If you notice any rashes or changes in your skin after tanning you should see your physician right away.

If you follow the rules, and use indoor tanning as a supplement to the sun and sunless spray, your healthy glow should last all year long!