8 Ways to Soothe A Tanning Bed Rash Naturally

# 8 Ways to Soothe A Tanning Bed Rash Naturally

You were looking forward to a beautiful, golden glow, but instead, you’re left with itchy, red, and uncomfortable skin. A tanning bed rash is a frustrating and common issue, but the good news is you don’t have to suffer through it. This unwelcome irritation can pop up for several reasons, from heat and sweat to a reaction to tanning lotions.

Fortunately, you don’t need to reach for harsh chemicals to find relief. Nature has provided a wealth of gentle yet powerful remedies to calm your skin, reduce redness, and stop the itch. In this guide, we’ll explore eight effective, natural ways to soothe a tanning bed rash and get your skin back to feeling its best.

## What Causes a Tanning Bed Rash?

Before we dive into the solutions, it helps to understand what’s causing the problem. Identifying the trigger can help you find the best remedy and prevent the rash from returning.

### Heat and Sweat (Prickly Heat)
The most common culprit is simply heat. Tanning beds generate significant heat, causing you to sweat. If your sweat ducts get blocked, sweat becomes trapped under your skin, leading to the itchy, red bumps known as heat rash or prickly heat (miliaria).

### Reaction to Tanning Lotions or Cleaners
The lotions you apply before tanning contain various ingredients, including fragrances, bronzers, and tingling agents. Your skin might be sensitive to one of these components. Similarly, the acrylic surface of the tanning bed is cleaned with disinfectants, and a residue could irritate your skin.

### UV Sensitivity
Some people have a natural sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) light, a condition known as photosensitivity. Exposure can trigger an immune system reaction, resulting in an itchy, red rash. Certain medications can also increase your photosensitivity, so it’s always a good idea to check the side effects of anything you are taking.

### Dry Skin
UV exposure is incredibly drying. If your skin is already dry, tanning can strip away its natural oils, compromising its protective barrier. This can lead to inflammation, flaking, and an itchy rash.

## 8 Natural Remedies to Calm Your Skin

Now for the relief you’ve been waiting for. These natural remedies are easy to use, gentle on irritated skin, and can help you quickly soothe that annoying tanning bed rash.

### 1. Apply a Cool Compress or Take a Cool Bath
#### The Power of Cold
Heat is a major cause of the rash, so cold is your first line of defense. Applying a cool compress or taking a cool shower or bath helps constrict blood vessels, which immediately reduces redness and inflammation. The cool temperature also provides instant relief from itching and that “prickly” feeling.

**How to do it:** Soak a soft washcloth in cool water, wring it out, and gently lay it over the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, take a short, cool shower or bath, but avoid using harsh soaps that can further irritate your skin.

### 2. Use Pure Aloe Vera Gel
#### Nature’s Soothing Ointment
Aloe vera is a superstar when it comes to skin irritation. It’s packed with anti-inflammatory and cooling properties that make it perfect for a tanning bed rash. It helps soothe burning sensations, reduce redness, and hydrate the damaged skin barrier.

**How to do it:** For the best results, use 100% pure aloe vera gel, preferably one without added colors or fragrances. You can find it at most drugstores or harvest it directly from an aloe plant. Apply a generous layer to the rash and let it absorb completely. Reapply several times a day.

### 3. Soak in a Colloidal Oatmeal Bath
#### A Classic Remedy for Itchiness
Colloidal oatmeal isn’t the same as your breakfast cereal; it’s a finely ground powder that dissolves in water. It contains compounds called avenanthramides, which have powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties. An oatmeal bath creates a protective, moisturizing barrier on your skin, providing long-lasting relief.

**How to do it:** Add a cup of colloidal oatmeal to a tub of lukewarm (not hot) water and stir until it dissolves. Soak for 15-20 minutes, then gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

### 4. Moisturize with Coconut Oil
#### A Hydrating and Antimicrobial Boost
Once the initial heat and inflammation have subsided, coconut oil can be a wonderful moisturizer. It’s rich in lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infection if you’ve been scratching. Its primary benefit is deeply hydrating the skin to help repair its compromised barrier.

**Important Note:** Avoid applying any oil to your skin when it’s still hot, as oil can trap heat and make the rash worse. Wait until your skin has cooled down completely, perhaps a few hours after using a cool compress.

### 5. Dab with Witch Hazel
#### A Natural Astringent for Irritation
Witch hazel is a natural astringent derived from a shrub. It contains tannins, which help reduce inflammation, tighten pores, and soothe irritation. It can be especially helpful for the small bumps associated with a heat rash.

**How to do it:** Look for an alcohol-free witch hazel formula to avoid drying out your skin. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and gently dab it onto the rash. Let it air dry.

### 6. Hydrate from the Inside Out
#### Drink Plenty of Water
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it needs water to stay healthy and resilient. Tanning is a dehydrating process, which can worsen skin irritation. Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins and supports your skin’s natural healing process.

### 7. Wear Loose, Breathable Fabrics
#### Let Your Skin Breathe
Tight, synthetic clothing can trap heat and sweat against your skin, making a tanning bed rash significantly worse. Give your skin room to breathe by wearing loose-fitting clothes made from natural, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. This will reduce friction and allow air to circulate, keeping the area cool and dry.

### 8. Avoid Scratching and Harsh Soaps
#### Protect Your Skin’s Barrier
The urge to scratch an itchy rash can be intense, but it’s the worst thing you can do. Scratching can break the skin, leading to potential infection and scarring. It also triggers more inflammation, creating a vicious itch-scratch cycle. Instead, use one of the cooling remedies above. Additionally, switch to a gentle, fragrance-free soap or cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.

## How to Prevent a Tanning Bed Rash in the Future

The best cure is prevention. Here are a few tips to avoid another rash:
* **Choose a Hypoallergenic Tanning Lotion:** Test a new lotion on a small patch of skin before applying it all over.
* **Cleanse Your Skin Before Tanning:** Remove any makeup, perfume, or deodorant that could react with UV light.
* **Don’t Overdo It:** Start with shorter tanning sessions to allow your skin to acclimate.
* **Moisturize Regularly:** Well-hydrated skin is healthier and less prone to irritation. Moisturize daily, especially after showering and tanning.

## When to See a Doctor

Most tanning bed rashes resolve within a few days with at-home care. However, you should consult a doctor or dermatologist if:
* The rash is extremely painful or widespread.
* It shows signs of infection, such as pus, yellow crusts, or increased swelling.
* You develop blisters or a fever.
* The rash doesn’t improve after a week of home treatment.

By listening to your skin and using these gentle, natural remedies, you can effectively soothe a tanning bed rash and focus on achieving a healthy, comfortable glow next time.