As a tanning devotee based in Longhua, I faithfully went to SUNBUDDY for five sessions—only to have a coworker ask, "Did you just come back from a dusty hillside?" I used the full time, applied tanning lotion, so why did my skin look grayish-yellow and dirty instead of a rich bronze? After chatting with seasoned regulars at the studio, I realized I'd fallen into three hidden traps that not only wasted my sessions but also stressed my skin.
Trap #1: Choosing the Wrong Bed Type—Yellow Skin Gets Dingier
Many beginners head straight for the "high-power, short-time" tanning beds, thinking they're more efficient. But for those with yellow undertones, if the UV lamp ratio isn't right, it can oxidize the yellow pigments in your skin, leaving you with a grayish-yellow look instead of a healthy tan. At the SUNBUDDY Longhua studio, the standard tanning bed is ideal for first-timers or lighter skin tones. For a quicker, true bronze, you should opt for an advanced bed (like the Hapro series), which has a red light ratio that promotes even melanin conversion without emphasizing yellow tones.
Trap #2: Only Applying Tanning Lotion on Visible Areas—Missing Joints and Strap Marks
In my early sessions, I only applied lotion to my arms, legs, and face. The result? My knees, elbows, and ankles turned dark and patchy, while the areas under my tank top straps remained pale. A pro told me that tanning lotion must be applied evenly all over—especially on joints, where you should use a thin layer and rub it in well. Dry skin on these areas absorbs unevenly under the lamps, creating blotchy patches. At SUNBUDDY, each bed is equipped with disinfectant wipes and disposables, but it's best to apply your lotion 5 minutes before entering the bed so your skin can absorb it properly.
Trap #3: Showering Right After Your Session—Washing Away Your Color
Many people feel sweaty after tanning and want to shower immediately. But here's the truth: the reaction between the tanning lotion and melanin needs at least 4 hours to "set" on your skin. I used to head straight for the shower after my session, only to wash away the melanin before it fully attached. SUNBUDDY staff reminded me: after your session, gently pat sweat off with a towel and avoid showering right away. If you must rinse, use lukewarm water without alkaline body wash, and wait at least 2 hours. Now, I apply a gentle, fragrance-free body lotion recommended by the brand after I get home, and my color looks fuller the next day.
Longhua Tanners' Cheat Sheet
- Start with a standard tanning bed to test your skin's tolerance before jumping to advanced models.
- Use enough tanning lotion: at least two coin-sized amounts for your whole body, and rub it in circular motions on joints.
- Don't shower for 4 hours after tanning: wear loose, dark clothing and apply fragrance-free body lotion at home.
- Longhua studio location: 6th Floor, Building 1, Shuibei Shihua Industrial Park, No. 5 Cuizhu North Road. Metro-accessible. Book via mini-program and select "Standard Tanning Bed."
After adjusting my routine, I noticed a clear difference after just two sessions—not a fake shine, but an even bronze that glows from within. If you're in Longhua and want to avoid these pitfalls, head to SUNBUDDY and tell the staff, "I want a natural tan without yellow tones." They'll even recommend the right lamp model for you.
