Quick answer
The most common causes are uneven lotion, dry or flaky skin, and pressure points where your body presses against a lay-down bed. Bronzer streaks, clothing and uneven lamps can play a part too. Exfoliate the day before, apply lotion evenly and moisturise daily. If you have pale, scaly or itchy patches that don't change, see a pharmacist, as it could be a skin condition.
Common causes, and fixes
Pressure points
On a lay-down sunbed, the parts of your body pressing against the acrylic (shoulder blades, bottom, backs of the arms) often tan less. Shifting position slightly partway through, or using a stand-up sunbed, can help. See lay-down vs stand-up sunbeds.
Uneven lotion
Missed patches and thick spots show up, especially with bronzers. Apply a thin, even layer in sections: see how to apply sunbed lotion.
Dry or flaky skin
Dry areas shed colour faster and tan unevenly. Exfoliate gently the day before a session and moisturise every day.
Bronzer streaks
If the streaks wash away within a few days, they're from the bronzer, not your tan. Blend well and wash your hands after applying.
Clothing and jewellery
Straps, waistbands and jewellery leave lines. Take off anything you don't want marked.
The sunbed itself
Worn or mismatched lamps can give uneven results. If one area is consistently lighter on a particular bed, try another bed or salon.
When it could be a skin condition
Pale, slightly scaly or itchy patches that appear on your chest, back or shoulders and don't improve could be a skin condition rather than a tanning problem. A pharmacist or GP can check it. Don't try to tan over it.
Not tanning at all? See why am I not tanning on the sunbed?
