how to soothe tanning bed burn

3 min read 06-02-2025

Getting a little too much sun, even from a tanning bed, can leave your skin feeling fiery and irritated. A tanning bed burn is essentially a sunburn, just from an artificial source. This article will guide you through the best ways to soothe that uncomfortable burn and help your skin heal. We'll cover immediate relief, long-term care, and what to avoid.

Understanding Tanning Bed Burns

A tanning bed burn is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This damages the skin's outer layer, leading to redness, inflammation, and pain. The severity depends on your skin type, the length of exposure, and the intensity of the tanning bed. While a mild burn might just feel slightly uncomfortable, a severe burn can be quite painful and even lead to blistering.

Immediate Relief for Tanning Bed Burns

The first few hours after a tanning bed burn are crucial. Immediate action can significantly reduce discomfort and prevent further damage.

1. Cool It Down:

Cool Compress: Apply a cool (not cold) compress to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time. Repeat as needed. Avoid ice directly on the skin, as this can further irritate it.
Cool Shower: A lukewarm shower can also provide soothing relief. Avoid hot water, which will worsen the burn.

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate:

Drink Plenty of Water: Dehydration can exacerbate sunburn symptoms. Drink plenty of water to help your body repair the damaged skin.
Moisturize: Apply a generous amount of aloe vera gel or a fragrance-free moisturizer to the burned skin. This helps to keep the skin hydrated and prevents peeling.

3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief:

Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.
Hydrocortisone Cream: A low-potency hydrocortisone cream (1%) can help reduce inflammation and itching. Apply as directed.

Long-Term Care for Tanning Bed Burns

Once the initial pain subsides, focus on continued hydration and protecting your skin from further sun exposure.

1. Continue Moisturizing:

Keep applying aloe vera gel or a fragrance-free moisturizer several times a day. This helps prevent peeling and promotes healing. Look for lotions containing soothing ingredients like chamomile or calendula.

2. Avoid Further Sun Exposure:

Protect your skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This is especially important while your skin is healing.

3. Avoid Picking or Scratching:

Resist the urge to pick or scratch at peeling skin. This can lead to infection and scarring.

4. Watch for Signs of Infection:

Monitor the burn for signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, pus, or fever. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately.

What to Avoid After a Tanning Bed Burn

Certain things can worsen a tanning bed burn and delay healing. Avoid these:

Hot Showers or Baths: Hot water will irritate the burn further.
Tight Clothing: Tight clothing can rub against the burned skin and cause discomfort.
Fragranced Products: Fragrances can irritate sensitive skin.
Sun Exposure: Avoid further sun exposure to prevent further damage.
Picking or Scratching: This can lead to infection and scarring.

When to See a Doctor

While most tanning bed burns heal on their own, you should seek medical attention if:

You have a severe burn with significant blistering.
You experience fever or chills.
The burn shows signs of infection.
You have a large area of burned skin.

Preventing Future Tanning Bed Burns

The best way to deal with a tanning bed burn is to prevent it in the first place. Consider these precautions:

Use tanning beds sparingly: Limit your exposure time to avoid burns.
Start with shorter sessions: Gradually increase your exposure time as your skin tolerates it.
Use a lower intensity bed: Choose a tanning bed with a lower intensity setting.
Use protective eyewear: Always wear protective eyewear designed for tanning beds.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after tanning.

Remember, moderation is key when using tanning beds. Always listen to your body and stop if you feel any discomfort. Your skin's health is important – prioritize its well-being!