New to tanning....weird skin reaction?

[supafreak00]

I started tanning a couple weeks ago to get a bit darker for my August wedding. I started at 5 mins for a few sessions and bumped up to 7 minutes last week. I've noticed that since I've started tanning, I've had 3 or 4 bumps that LOOK like pimples but I don't believe they are...they almost look like blisters or bites. They don't itch or anything. If they're pimples, they're not your typical ones. I have not burned or even gotten pink from tanning yet, so I'm wondering what they are? I've beenin a lay-down bed, no tanning lotion, just regular moisturizer. I've had one on my left hip, left thigh, right above my rear, and a little one on my left nipple. Thanks for your help.

Also, any rec's for a lotion with no bronzer or tingle that isn't TOO expensive and smells good? Preferably no chocolate or coconut scents(I have to go back to work right after tanning).

[Bonnie]

Welcome to the site! Is it possible you are having an allergic reaction of some kind to the beds, or the cleaning fluid used on them? And are you sure this related to going tanning?

[supafreak00]

I suppose it could be an allergic reaction, but there's no centralized place its occurring, and I'm not laying on ONLY the areas where it is happening.

[BrownJen]

Welcome to Iamtan!!

Are you taking any medications?

Another possibility is heat rash. Heat rash is caused by overheating, your sweat gets trapped beneath your skin and causes tiny bumps and red skin, and it makes you itchy. I would suggest not tanning again until it clears, as tanning in this condition will only aggravate it. Changing positions in the bed can help prevent heat rash, as it gives your skin a chance to "breathe" & cool off. Taking cool showers can help too.

You may need to cut back on your exposure time. How frequently are you tanning?

If you haven't already read this article, take a look as it explains Heat Rash pretty well. http://my.webmd.com/content/Article/8/1680_54300.htm


For some good lotions at a good price you may want to consider the Emerald Bay line and Synergy's Brown Envy (smells like vanilla cake batter to me).