Thinking about getting a sun-kissed glow at Planet Fitness? You’re in luck! To tan at Planet Fitness, you generally need a “Black Card” membership or higher, which includes access to their tanning equipment. With this membership, you can use the tanning beds and booths as often as you like during staffed hours.
Planet Fitness offers a unique approach to achieving a tan, focusing on accessibility and affordability for its members. If you’re a Planet Fitness member considering their tanning services, you’re likely wondering how it all works, what options are available, and what you need to do to get started. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Planet Fitness tanning.
Image Source: www.grantspasstribune.com
Unpacking Planet Fitness Tanning Options
Planet Fitness, often known as the “judgment-free zone,” extends this welcoming atmosphere to its tanning facilities. They provide convenient and budget-friendly ways to achieve a tan without the need for expensive salon visits. The primary methods available are tanning beds Planet Fitness and Mystic Tan Planet Fitness spray tans.
Tanning Beds at Planet Fitness
Tanning beds Planet Fitness are a popular choice for members seeking a traditional sunbed experience. These beds use UV light to stimulate melanin production in your skin, resulting in a tanned appearance. Planet Fitness typically offers two types of tanning beds:
Level 1 Tanning Beds
- Description: These are entry-level tanning beds, generally less intense than higher-level options. They are suitable for individuals with lighter skin tones or those new to tanning.
- Features: Often feature a fewer number of bulbs and a lower output, providing a gentler tanning experience.
- Frequency: Typically can be used more frequently due to their lower intensity.
Level 3 Tanning Beds (often referred to as “High-Pressure” or “Advanced”)
- Description: These are more advanced tanning beds that offer a deeper, richer tan. They are designed for users who want quicker results or a more intense tan.
- Features: Contain more powerful bulbs, often with a higher concentration of UVA rays, which are responsible for the browning of the skin.
- Frequency: Due to their intensity, it’s crucial to follow the recommended session times and frequency to avoid overexposure.
How to use Planet Fitness tanning beds:
- Membership Requirement: Ensure your membership includes tanning privileges. This is typically part of the “Black Card” membership.
- Locate Tanning Area: Find the designated tanning area within your Planet Fitness club. It’s usually separate from the main gym floor.
- Prepare for Tanning:
- Protective Eyewear: Always wear the provided or your own UV-protective eyewear. This is crucial for protecting your eyes from UV damage.
- Skin Preparation: It’s recommended to shower and exfoliate your skin before tanning to remove dead skin cells, ensuring a more even tan. Avoid applying lotions or perfumes before tanning, as these can interfere with the tanning process or cause reactions.
- Tanning Lotions: While Planet Fitness may sell tanning lotions Planet Fitness specifically designed for their beds, you can also bring your own. These lotions contain bronzers and accelerators that can enhance your tanning results. Ensure they are compatible with the specific tanning bed you are using.
- Enter the Bed: Once you’re ready, enter the tanning bed.
- Set the Timer: Follow the instructions on the tanning bed itself or ask a staff member for assistance. Most beds have a pre-set timer.
- Tan: Lie down in the bed and close the lid. Relax for the duration of your session.
- After Tanning: After the session, exit the bed. You can shower off any excess tanning lotion if needed.
Important Notes for Tanning Beds:
- Session Limits: While your membership allows unlimited tanning, there’s a mandatory 24-hour waiting period between sessions for the same bed type to allow your skin to recover.
- Cleanliness: Planet Fitness clubs typically provide sanitizing wipes for members to clean the tanning beds before and after use.
Mystic Tan Planet Fitness (Spray Tanning)
For those who prefer a sunless tanning option, Mystic Tan Planet Fitness offers a convenient spray tan experience. Mystic Tan is a popular brand of automated spray tanning booths that provide a quick and even tan without UV exposure.
How to use Mystic Tan Planet Fitness:
- Membership Requirement: As with tanning beds, access to Mystic Tan is usually included with the Black Card membership.
- Locate the Booth: Find the Mystic Tan booth in the designated area of the gym.
- Prepare for Spray Tan:
- Attire: Wear old, dark-colored clothing or the disposable garments provided by Planet Fitness. The spray tan solution can stain lighter fabrics.
- Accessories: Remove any jewelry. You’ll also be provided with disposable hair caps and nose filters.
- Skin Preparation: Shower and exfoliate thoroughly before your appointment. Avoid applying lotions, deodorants, or perfumes. Shaving should be done at least 24 hours prior to your session.
- Enter the Booth: Step into the Mystic Tan booth.
- Follow Instructions: The booth will guide you through the process. You’ll be instructed to stand in specific positions to ensure an even application.
- The Spray Tan Process: The booth will automatically spray a fine mist of tanning solution onto your body. It typically takes just a few minutes.
- After Spray Tan:
- Drying: There’s usually a warm air dry cycle at the end of the booth session.
- Rinse and Wear: After the session, wait the recommended time (usually 4-8 hours) before showering. This allows the tan to develop. Wear loose, dark clothing after the session to prevent smudging.
Benefits of Mystic Tan:
- No UV Exposure: This is a safer alternative for those who want to avoid the risks associated with UV tanning.
- Quick and Even Application: The automated process ensures a consistent and natural-looking tan.
Planet Fitness Tanning Memberships
The gateway to Planet Fitness tanning services is through their membership tiers.
- Classic Membership: This is the most basic membership and does not typically include tanning privileges.
- PF Black Card Membership: This is the premium membership that unlocks access to all Planet Fitness locations, unlimited guest privileges, massage chairs, hydromassage, and crucially, tanning memberships Planet Fitness includes access to both tanning beds and Mystic Tan spray tans.
How to Upgrade for Tanning Access:
If you currently have a Classic membership, you can upgrade to a PF Black Card at any Planet Fitness location. Speak to a staff member at the front desk, and they can assist you with the process. This upgrade will grant you access to all the premium amenities, including tanning.
Planet Fitness Tanning Rules and Guidelines
To ensure a safe and positive tanning experience for everyone, Planet Fitness has established specific Planet Fitness tanning rules. Adhering to these rules is essential.
General Rules:
- Membership Verification: Always have your PF Black Card available for check-in.
- Time Limits: Respect the 24-hour waiting period between tanning sessions for the same equipment type. This is for your skin’s health and safety.
- Protective Eyewear: Mandatory for all tanning bed users.
- Cleanliness: Clean the tanning beds and booths before and after use. Sanitizing wipes are usually provided.
- Appropriate Attire: For spray tans, wear dark, loose clothing. For tanning beds, you can tan nude or wear minimal undergarments.
- No Outside Products: Generally, only approved tanning lotions Planet Fitness offers or those specifically designed for tanning beds should be used. Avoid using regular lotions or oils, as they can damage the tanning bed acrylics and potentially cause skin irritation.
- Age Restrictions: Tanning services are typically for individuals 18 years of age or older. Some states may have additional regulations regarding minors.
Tanning Bed Specific Rules:
- Session Duration: Do not exceed the recommended session times, which vary based on the bed type and your skin type.
- Frequency: Adhere to the 24-hour waiting period.
- No Double Tanning: Do not tan in two different beds consecutively on the same day, even if they are different levels.
Mystic Tan Specific Rules:
- Pre-Tan Preparation: Follow the preparation guidelines regarding showering, exfoliation, and avoiding lotions/deodorants.
- Post-Tan Care: Adhere to the recommended waiting period before showering to allow the tan to develop fully. Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating immediately after a spray tan.
Achieving Optimal Tanning Results Planet Fitness
To maximize your tanning results Planet Fitness, consider these tips:
Before Tanning:
- Exfoliate: Scrub your entire body thoroughly a day or two before your tanning session. This removes dead skin cells, allowing for a smoother, more even tan.
- Shave: Shave any areas you wish to shave at least 24 hours before tanning, especially for spray tans.
- Moisturize (but not right before): Keep your skin hydrated in the days leading up to your tan. However, avoid moisturizing immediately before tanning, as it can create a barrier.
During Tanning:
- Use Tanning Lotions: Applying a quality tanning lotion designed for indoor tanning beds can significantly enhance your results. These lotions contain ingredients that help deepen your tan and moisturize your skin. Planet Fitness often sells tanning lotions Planet Fitness specifically for their equipment.
- Tan Regularly (but safely): Consistent tanning sessions, spaced appropriately, will yield the best results.
- Positioning: In tanning beds, shift your position slightly halfway through the session to ensure all areas of your body are evenly exposed to the UV light. For spray tans, follow the booth’s instructions precisely.
After Tanning:
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
- Moisturize Daily: Apply a good moisturizer twice a day to prolong your tan and keep your skin healthy. Look for lotions that are specifically designed for tanned skin or those that don’t contain harsh ingredients.
- Avoid Exfoliation: Do not exfoliate for at least a week after tanning, as this will cause your tan to fade faster.
- Gentle Cleansing: Use mild soaps and avoid long, hot showers, which can dry out your skin and fade your tan.
- Pat Dry: After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a towel rather than rubbing.
Tanning Pros and Cons Planet Fitness
Like any cosmetic service, tanning pros and cons Planet Fitness have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to weigh these before deciding if it’s the right choice for you.
Tanning Pros Planet Fitness:
- Affordability: The most significant pro is the cost. For the monthly fee of a PF Black Card membership, you get unlimited access to tanning, which is much cheaper than paying for individual sessions at a salon.
- Convenience: Having tanning facilities within your regular gym makes it easy to incorporate tanning into your fitness routine.
- Accessibility: As part of a large chain, Planet Fitness tanning is available in many locations across the country.
- Variety of Options: Offering both tanning beds and spray tans caters to different preferences.
- Beginner-Friendly: The entry-level tanning beds and the automated Mystic Tan system are generally suitable for beginners.
Tanning Cons Planet Fitness:
- UV Exposure Risks: Tanning beds use UV radiation, which is a known carcinogen and can lead to premature skin aging (wrinkles, age spots), and an increased risk of skin cancer. While the tanning beds at Planet Fitness are regulated, the risks associated with UV exposure remain.
- Limited Customization: The tanning beds are generally standard, and the Mystic Tan booths are automated, meaning there’s less personal customization compared to a custom spray tan from a technician.
- Potential for Uneven Results: While both methods aim for evenness, user error (improper preparation, not following instructions) or equipment issues can sometimes lead to streaks or patchy results, particularly with spray tans.
- “Tanning Addiction” Concerns: For some, the accessibility of tanning can lead to excessive use, increasing health risks.
- “Fake Bake” Look: Some users report that the Mystic Tan can sometimes have an orangey hue if not applied perfectly or if the wrong shade is chosen.
- “Judgment-Free” Zone for Tanning: While the gym is a “judgment-free zone,” the tanning facilities can sometimes feel more exclusive or intimidating for those who are very self-conscious about their bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planet Fitness Tanning
Q1: Do I need a special membership for tanning at Planet Fitness?
A1: Yes, typically you need the PF Black Card membership or a higher tier membership to access the tanning beds and Mystic Tan spray tan booths.
Q2: How often can I use the tanning beds at Planet Fitness?
A2: Your membership allows unlimited tanning, but there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period between sessions for the same type of tanning equipment (e.g., between tanning bed sessions, or between Mystic Tan sessions).
Q3: What if I want to use both a tanning bed and the Mystic Tan on the same day?
A3: The 24-hour rule applies per type of equipment. You cannot use the same tanning bed twice in a 24-hour period, nor can you use the Mystic Tan booth twice in a 24-hour period. You could potentially use a tanning bed and then the Mystic Tan on the same day, provided you adhere to the preparation and post-care guidelines for each. However, it is generally recommended to space out tanning sessions, even different types, for skin health.
Q4: Can I bring my own tanning lotion to Planet Fitness?
A4: Yes, you can bring your own tanning lotions. However, ensure they are specifically designed for indoor tanning beds, as some lotions can damage the acrylic surfaces of the beds. Planet Fitness also sells its own brand of tanning lotions Planet Fitness.
Q5: What should I wear in the tanning bed?
A5: You can tan nude or wear minimal undergarments. It’s crucial to wear the provided protective eyewear.
Q6: What should I wear after a Mystic Tan session?
A6: Wear loose, dark-colored clothing to prevent smudging the spray tan solution as it develops. Avoid tight-fitting clothes and synthetic fabrics.
Q7: How long does it take to see results from Planet Fitness tanning?
A7: With tanning beds, you might see a slight tan after one session, but a noticeable tan typically develops over several sessions spaced a day or two apart. Mystic Tan provides immediate color, which darkens over the next 4-8 hours as it develops.
Q8: Are there any age restrictions for tanning at Planet Fitness?
A8: Yes, generally, you must be 18 years or older to use the tanning facilities. Some states may have specific laws regarding tanning for individuals under 18, which Planet Fitness would adhere to.
Q9: Is tanning at Planet Fitness safe?
A9: Tanning beds use UV radiation, which carries risks such as premature aging and an increased chance of skin cancer. Mystic Tan is a safer alternative as it uses sunless tanning solutions without UV exposure. Regardless of the method, it’s important to use tanning services responsibly, follow all safety guidelines, and be aware of the potential health risks associated with UV tanning.
Q10: What are the tanning booths at Planet Fitness called?
A10: Planet Fitness typically uses Mystic Tan spray tan booths, which are automated, booth-style spray tanning systems. You might also see them referred to as tanning booths Planet Fitness generally.
By following this guide, you should now have a clear picture of how to navigate the Planet Fitness tanning experience, from understanding the available options to maximizing your tanning results Planet Fitness and being aware of the tanning pros and cons Planet Fitness. Enjoy your glow!