PL
UASunbeds are a popular way to get a tan, but they carry real risks, so it is important to follow safety rules. Frequent use increases the risk of skin damage such as premature ageing and even skin cancer. Skin that is repeatedly burned by the sun or a sunbed ages and dries out faster, which leads to early wrinkles. That is why it is worth knowing how to use a sunbed as safely as possible – and when not to use it at all.
Know your skin type before you use a sunbed regularly
Everyone’s skin reacts differently to UV radiation. Knowing your skin type (phototype I to VI) helps you understand how your skin responds. People with phototype I (very fair skin) burn very easily and should avoid sunbeds. Whatever your skin type, limit sunbed use to 1–2 sessions a week, with at least 48 hours between them. More frequent use increases the risk of skin damage. If you use a sunbed regularly, take periodic breaks so your skin can recover.
Skin phototypes – a quick guide
A phototype describes how your skin reacts to sun exposure – whether it tans or burns. The most widely used scale is the Fitzpatrick scale, which divides skin into six phototypes. To find yours, look at your natural skin, hair and eye colour and how your skin reacts to the sun:
| Phototype | Skin, hair and eyes | Reaction to the sun | Recommended sun protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Very fair, porcelain skin; very light blonde or red hair; blue or green eyes | Always burns, never tans | Avoid sunbeds; SPF 50+ outdoors |
| II | Fair skin, often with freckles; light to dark blonde hair; blue, green, grey or light brown eyes | Often burns, tans slowly | SPF 30–50 |
| III | Fair to light olive skin; dark blonde to brown hair; brown, blue or green eyes | Sometimes burns, usually tans light brown | SPF 15–30 |
| IV | Olive skin; dark brown or black hair; brown, hazel or green eyes | Rarely burns, tans easily | SPF 15–30, especially with intense exposure |
| V | Brown skin; dark brown to black hair; dark brown eyes | Very rarely burns, tans easily and quickly | SPF 15+ |
| VI | Very dark brown to black skin; black hair; dark eyes | Almost never burns | SPF 15+ against UV damage |
When should you not use a sunbed at all?
Do not use a sunbed if you are pregnant, have many moles or a tendency to develop them, or have skin conditions such as vitiligo. People with a history of skin cancer, or whose close relatives have had skin cancer, should avoid sunbeds. The same applies if you take medication that makes your skin more sensitive to light.
Always protect your eyes
Not everyone remembers that UV radiation can damage the eyes and lead to serious problems such as conjunctivitis, retinal damage or cataracts. Always use protective goggles during a sunbed session.
How to prepare your skin before a sunbed session
A day or two before your session, gently exfoliate your whole body to remove dead skin cells – this helps the tan develop evenly. On the day of your session, avoid perfume and regular lotions, creams and oils, which can cause discolouration or an uneven tan.
At Haircut Express, sunbeds are available only at the salon at Racjonalizacji 1 in Warsaw. You can find the prices, devices and rules on our solarium page.
FAQ
How many minutes should my first sunbed session be?
People with skin type I should not use a sunbed at all. With skin type II, start with 3–5 minutes; with types III–IV, 5–8 minutes. Increase the time gradually every few sessions; the maximum length of a session is set by the device manufacturer and the staff.
How often can I use a sunbed?
No more often than every 48 hours, and 1–2 times a week when maintaining a tan. Your skin needs time to recover. In Poland, sunbeds may only be used by adults (18+).
Should I apply cream before a sunbed session?
Not regular body lotion or perfume – they can cause discolouration. Special indoor tanning lotions (without UV filters) are used for sunbeds, and it is best to moisturise the day before.
Who should not use a sunbed?
People with skin type I, with many moles, pregnant women, people taking photosensitising medication (some antibiotics, retinoids, herbal remedies) and people after skin-peeling treatments. If in doubt, consult a dermatologist.
Where is the Haircut Express solarium?
Three sunbeds (two lie-down Ergoline 600 Classic units and one stand-up) are available at our salon at Racjonalizacji 1 in Warsaw (Mokotów), without an appointment – you pay per minute. Details and price on the solarium page.
Read also
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