Are you feeling a little bored with your current hair color? Do you long for blonde tresses but are unsure of how to achieve lighter locks without the costly salon visits and potentially damaging bleaching products? Nothing beats natural-looking lightened hair, but what if we told you there’s an easy way to get it on your own terms – in tanning beds? With the right techniques and materials, anyone can find out how to lighten their hair while tanning.
In this blog post, we will be giving you some top tips on how to lighten hair in tanning bed. So keep reading if salon trips aren’t quite an option for doing it yourself.
Why May You Want to Lighten Hair in Tanning Bed?
1 . To Achieve a Natural Sun-Kissed Look
Many people desire a sun-kissed look during the summer season, but not everyone has the time or means to achieve it. Tanning beds offer a quicker and more convenient way to get that golden glow. However, this may result in darkening of the hair as well. By learning how to lighten hair in a tanning bed, you can achieve a natural sun-kissed look without having to worry about your hair color.
2 . To Avoid Chemical Hair Dyes
Chemical hair dyes can be damaging to the hair and scalp, causing dryness and breakage. By using a tanning bed to lighten your hair, you can avoid exposing your locks to harsh chemicals. This is a safer and more natural method to achieve lighter hair.
3 . To Save Time and Money
Compared to frequent trips to the salon for highlights or bleaching, using a tanning bed to lighten your hair can save you both time and money in the long run. You also have more control over the level of lightening, allowing you to touch up your hair as needed without additional costs.
4 . To Experiment with Different Shades
Tanning beds can provide a gradual lightening effect, allowing you to experiment with different shades of blonde or add natural-looking highlights to your hair. This gives you the freedom to play around with different looks without committing to a permanent hair color change.
How to Lighten Hair in Tanning Bed in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Before you even think about getting into a tanning bed to lighten your hair, it’s important to properly prepare your hair. This will help protect your hair from potential damage and ensure that the color turns out evenly. To prepare your hair, follow these steps:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup and oils.
- Deep condition your hair to add moisture and protect it from the drying effects of tanning beds.
- Brush your hair thoroughly to detangle and evenly distribute the deep conditioner.
Step 2: Choose the Right Tanning Bed
Not all tanning beds are created equal. When it comes to lightening hair, it’s important to choose a tanning bed with low UVB rays and high UVA rays. This will help prevent your hair from turning orange or brassy. It’s also recommended to use a bed with lower-intensity bulbs for more control over the lighting process.
Step 3: Protect Your Skin
While you may be focused on lightening your hair, it’s important to also protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before getting into the tanning bed. You can also use a tanning lotion specifically designed for indoor tanning to help protect and moisturize your skin.
Step 4: Cover Your Hair
To prevent your hair from burning or drying out, it’s important to cover it with a towel or cloth while in the tanning bed. This will create a barrier between your hair and the UV rays, helping to maintain its moisture and avoid any potential damage.
Step 5: Monitor Your Time
When using a tanning bed to lighten your hair, it’s crucial to monitor your time in the bed. Start with a shorter session of about 5 minutes and gradually increase as needed. It’s also important to give your hair breaks in between sessions to allow it to rest and recover from the UV exposure.
By following these 5 easy steps, you can safely and effectively lighten your hair in a tanning bed. Remember to always prioritize the health and protection of your hair and skin while using tanning beds.
Additional Tips for Lightening Hair in Tanning Beds
1 . Use a Color-Safe Shampoo
After lightening your hair in a tanning bed, it’s important to use a color safe shampoo to help maintain the new lighter shade. Regular shampoos can strip away the color and cause it to fade faster.
2 . Limit Exposure
Just like with natural sunlight, too much exposure to UV rays in tanning beds can be harmful to both your hair and skin. It’s recommended to limit tanning bed sessions to once or twice a week, with at least 48 hours between each session.
3 . Use Leave-In Conditioner
To keep your hair moisturized and protected after using a tanning bed, consider using a leave-in conditioner. This will help combat any dryness or damage caused by the UV rays and keep your hair looking healthy and shiny.
4 . Consult a Professional
If you’re unsure about how to safely lighten your hair in a tanning bed, it’s always best to consult a professional hairstylist. They can offer personalized advice and make sure that you achieve the desired results without damaging your hair.
5 . Take Care of Your Hair Afterwards
After lightening your hair in a tanning bed, it’s important to continue taking care of it to maintain the color and keep it healthy. This includes using nourishing hair masks or oils, avoiding excessive heat styling, and regularly trimming split ends.
By following these additional tips and taking proper precautions, you can successfully lighten your hair in a tanning bed and achieve the desired results without damaging your hair or skin. Remember to prioritize safety and proper hair care for healthy, beautiful hair. So go ahead and rock that new lighter shade with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Lightening My Hair in a Tanning Bed?
When using a tanning bed to lighten your hair, it is important to take certain precautions to protect both your hair and skin. These include: Before getting into the tanning bed, apply sunscreen to any exposed areas of skin. This will help prevent sunburn or damage from UV rays. Additionally, cover your hair with a towel or cloth to prevent direct exposure to the tanning bed lights.
Will I See Results Immediately?
No, lightening hair in a tanning bed is not an instant process. It may take multiple sessions before you see noticeable results. Be patient and make sure to follow proper precautions to avoid damaging your hair.
How Often Should I Use a Tanning Bed to Lighten My Hair?
It is recommended to only use a tanning bed for hair lightening once every 1-2 weeks. Overexposure to UV rays can cause damage to your hair and skin, so it’s important to give your body time to recover between sessions.
Can I Use Regular Hair Dye While Using a Tanning Bed?
It is not recommended to use regular hair dye while using a tanning bed. The UV rays from the tanning bed can interact with the chemicals in hair dye and potentially cause damage or unwanted color results. It’s best to stick to methods specifically designed for lightening hair in a tanning bed.
Are There Alternatives to Lightening Hair in a Tanning Bed?
Yes, there are alternative methods to lightening hair that do not involve tanning beds. These include using natural ingredients such as lemon juice or chamomile tea, or using specialized products like lightening shampoos or sprays.
Can I Lighten My Entire Head of Hair in a Tanning Bed?
It is possible to lighten your entire head of hair in a tanning bed, but it may take multiple sessions and proper precautions to avoid potential damage. It’s important to consult with a professional before attempting to lighten your entire head of hair in a tanning bed.
Is Lightening Hair in a Tanning Bed Safe?
Lightening hair in a tanning bed can be safe if done properly and with precaution. It is important to follow the recommended frequency of use and take care to protect both your hair and skin from UV rays. If you have any concerns or preexisting conditions, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting to lighten your hair in a tanning bed. Overall, it is important to be cautious and aware of potential risks, but with proper care and knowledge, you can safely lighten your hair in a tanning bed. So go ahead, embrace those sun-kissed highlights with confidence!
Conclusion
By following these steps on how to lighten hair in tanning bed, you should be able to achieve the hair color you desire. With tanning beds, you won’t have to worry about harmful UV rays because the bulb utilizes UVA and UVB in a more controlled environment that has been designed with your comfort and safety in mind.
While it is possible for anyone to lighten their hair in a tanning bed, it may still take some time (and quite a few visits) before you will start seeing results. To be safe, it’s important to make sure that your level of exposure is appropriate by using protective eyewear and conducting some research on the best techniques for lightening hair safely. So go ahead and explore your options – those lighter locks await!
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.