Have you ever stood in front of your closet, holding a white sundress or a sleek little black dress, and wished for that just-back-from-vacation glow? Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a date night, or a last-minute photoshoot, a subtle tan can elevate your whole outfit. In this Planet Fitness tanning review, I’ll walk you through the actual experience, safety tips, and how to pair your new glow with outfits, makeup, and skincare routines so you always look polished — not orange.
What to Expect: My Planet Fitness Tanning Experience
Planet Fitness is known for affordable memberships and convenient locations, and many clubs offer tanning beds or booths as an add-on. My visit was straightforward: sign in, get wrist access, and follow posted instructions for the tanning booth. Timing is controlled, which reduces guesswork, and staff were friendly and helpful about session length. If you’re trying one for the first time, ask for the lowest recommended time and work up slowly.
Types of Tanning Options at Planet Fitness
- Traditional tanning beds — horizontal beds with timers and face shields.
- Stand-up booths — good for even coverage and faster sessions.
- Spray tan services — not available at all locations, but some clubs partner with local technicians.
Planet Fitness Tanning Review: Pros and Cons
Honesty moment — tanning beds are convenient and budget-friendly, but they come with caveats. Here’s a balanced look.
Pros
- Cost-effective for members — often included or inexpensive as an add-on.
- Wide availability and flexible hours.
- Quick sessions — great for busy schedules.
Cons
- UV exposure increases skin aging and skin cancer risk; follow safety guidelines.
- Results can vary by skin tone and consistency of visits.
- Not a replacement for professional spray tans if you want a specific shade or event-ready finish.
Safety First: Tanning Tips and Skin Care Routine
Before you step into a booth, prioritize your skin health. Here’s a simple pre- and post-tanning skincare routine that I recommend to minimize damage and keep your glow wearable.
Pre-Tan Prep
- Exfoliate 24 hours before to remove dead skin cells for even color.
- Moisturize daily in the week leading up to tanning — hydrated skin tans more evenly.
- Avoid perfumes, deodorants, and makeup when you tan; they can cause uneven patches.
- Start with a short session (about 50% of the maximum for your skin type).
Post-Tan Care
- Apply a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer after your session and nightly for a week.
- Use a gentle cleanser — no harsh scrubs for 48 hours.
- Wear SPF daily on exposed skin to protect against further UV damage.
For more in-depth routines, check out our skincare tips page.
How to Style Your New Glow: Outfit and Makeup Ideas
A natural-looking tan can change your color palette. Here are outfit combos and makeup suggestions to enhance your sun-kissed skin without overdoing it.
Outfit Combinations
- Light dresses: Whites and creams look radiant with a subtle tan — perfect for daytime events.
- Bold colors: Jewel tones (emerald, ruby, cobalt) pop against a warm skin tone.
- Neutrals: Beige and tan layers create a chic monochrome look; add gold jewelry to warm the palette.
Makeup Suggestions
- Foundation: Opt for a shade that still matches your chest — blend down the neck.
- Bronzer: Use as a sculptor on cheekbones and temples, but keep it matte to avoid looking fake.
- Blush: Peachy or coral shades warm up the face; for cooler tones, choose rose or soft plum.
- Highlighter: A small touch on the cheekbones and brow bone creates a natural glow — not shimmer all over.
Interested in current beauty looks that work with tanned skin? Browse our makeup trends for seasonal ideas.
Who Should Consider Planet Fitness Tanning?
If you’re budget-conscious, want an occasional glow for events, or prefer DIY convenience, Planet Fitness tanning can be a good fit. However, if you have very fair or sensitive skin, a history of skin issues, or seek a flawless, event-ready tan, a professional spray tan or a dermatologist consultation is a safer choice.
Maintenance: How to Keep Your Tan Looking Fresh
- Moisturize daily and use a tanning extender lotion.
- Pat dry instead of rubbing after showers to prevent patchiness.
- Limit exfoliation to once a week and use gentle products.
- Top up with short sessions rather than long ones to maintain color without overexposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tanning beds emit UV radiation that increases the risk of skin aging and skin cancer. Safety depends on responsible use: know your skin type, follow recommended session times, wear protective eyewear, and consult a dermatologist if you have concerns. Consider spray tans as a UV-free alternative.
Most professionals recommend sparse, controlled sessions. For many, that means once or twice a week maximum, starting with short exposure times. Always follow posted guidelines and staff recommendations for session length.
Results vary by skin tone and consistency. Lighter skin may need more cautious, gradual sessions. For the most natural results, pair tanning sessions with proper exfoliation and moisturization. If you need a guaranteed shade for an event, a professional spray tan is often more reliable.
Conclusion — Should You Try It?
If you’re asking whether this Planet Fitness tanning review recommends trying the tanning option, my answer is: yes, cautiously. It’s an affordable, convenient way to add a sun-kissed boost to your look — especially when combined with the right skincare routine, makeup choices, and outfit styling. But prioritize skin health: start slow, protect your skin daily with SPF, and consider spray tans or professional services if you want event-perfect results.
Ready to glow safely and stylishly? Try a short session, pair it with the pre- and post-care steps above, and share your results. For more beauty and style inspiration, visit our fashion guides and keep refining your signature look.
