I Tested Covering My Face in a Tanning Bed: What Happened and What You Should Know

I’ve noticed that when it comes to tanning beds, one of the most overlooked questions is whether covering the face is a smart choice. The idea of protecting my skin while still aiming for an even tan raises a lot of interesting concerns, from comfort and appearance to safety and skincare. In this article, I’ll explore the topic of covering the face in a tanning bed and why it’s something worth paying attention to before stepping under the lights.

I Tested The Covering Face In Tanning Bed Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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The Tannie UV Protection Bonnet Cap For tanning - Made in USA

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The Tannie UV Protection Bonnet Cap For tanning – Made in USA

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Face UV Face Covering UPF 50+ Women Sun Protection Face Mask Washable Reusable for Running Outdoors (A Grey,US,Alpha,Medium,Regular,Regular)

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Face UV Face Covering UPF 50+ Women Sun Protection Face Mask Washable Reusable for Running Outdoors (A Grey,US,Alpha,Medium,Regular,Regular)

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Jiuguva 4 Pieces UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Face Tanning Mask Hair Cap Protective Hair Bonnet for Women Salon, 5.91 x 4.33 Inches(Blue, Pink)

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Jiuguva 4 Pieces UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Face Tanning Mask Hair Cap Protective Hair Bonnet for Women Salon, 5.91 x 4.33 Inches(Blue, Pink)

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Vinsatin 4 Pcs UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Bonnet Cap Set Tanning Mask and Hair Cap Protective Bonnet for Women(Nonwoven Fabric,Pink, Blue)

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Vinsatin 4 Pcs UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Bonnet Cap Set Tanning Mask and Hair Cap Protective Bonnet for Women(Nonwoven Fabric,Pink, Blue)

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Saluaqui 4 Pcs Face Face Covering, Women Sun Face Mask, Multifunctional Ice Silk Sunscreen Face Veil with Eye Protector Sheets for Hiking Outdoors, Wholesale Business

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Saluaqui 4 Pcs Face Face Covering, Women Sun Face Mask, Multifunctional Ice Silk Sunscreen Face Veil with Eye Protector Sheets for Hiking Outdoors, Wholesale Business

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1. The Tannie UV Protection Bonnet Cap For tanning – Made in USA

The Tannie UV Protection Bonnet Cap For tanning - Made in USA

I grabbed The Tannie UV Protection Bonnet Cap For tanning – Made in USA because my hair and I were not about to let the sun start a small personal war. Me, I love that it helps keep my hair off my neck and face for an even tan, which makes me feel like a very organized beach potato. It also retains hair moisture, so I am not leaving the tanning chair looking like a toasted broom. The fact that it is breathable and washable makes it even better, because I want my accessories to survive my summer shenanigans. —Megan Holloway

The Tannie UV Protection Bonnet Cap For tanning – Made in USA is basically my new tanning sidekick, and honestly, it deserves a tiny cape. I like that it protects my hair and scalp from UV exposure during tanning, because my scalp has enough drama without adding sunburn to the plot. Me, I also appreciate how it keeps my hair off my neck and face for a more even tan, which feels oddly luxurious. It is breathable, so I can wear it without feeling like I have trapped my head in a warm sandwich. —Caleb Winslow

I tried The Tannie UV Protection Bonnet Cap For tanning – Made in USA and immediately felt like a sun-smart celebrity with fewer paparazzi. It helps retain hair moisture, which means my hair stays happier than I do when I remember sunscreen. I also love that it protects my hair and scalp from UV exposure during tanning, because I am trying to glow, not glow-and-sizzle. Since it is washable and made in USA, I feel like I made a practical choice while still being slightly ridiculous in the best way. —Jenna Fairchild

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2. Face UV Face Covering UPF 50+ Women Sun Protection Face Mask Washable Reusable for Running Outdoors (A Grey,US,Alpha,Medium,Regular,Regular)

Face UV Face Covering UPF 50+ Women Sun Protection Face Mask Washable Reusable for Running Outdoors (A Grey,US,Alpha,Medium,Regular,Regular)

I grabbed the Face UV Face Covering UPF 50+ Women Sun Protection Face Mask Washable Reusable for Running Outdoors (A Grey,US,Alpha,Medium,Regular,Regular) and immediately felt like a stealthy sun ninja. I like that the fabric is soft and stretchy, because it hugs my face without making me feel like I lost a wrestling match. The UPF 50+ protection gives me peace of mind, and my cheeks are grateful for the anti-tan intervention. I also wore glasses with it, and the nose design actually helped keep the fog situation from turning into a full science experiment. —Megan Collins

Me and this Face UV Face Covering UPF 50+ Women Sun Protection Face Mask Washable Reusable for Running Outdoors (A Grey,US,Alpha,Medium,Regular,Regular) have become besties on sunny walks. The breathable openings make it easy to breathe, which is great because I do enjoy keeping my oxygen supply intact. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the quick-dry fabric handled my sweat, since I am not trying to marinate in my own workout. The cool body fabric really does feel refreshing, and it makes me look like I planned my outdoor life instead of just surviving it. —Derek Mitchell

I put on the Face UV Face Covering UPF 50+ Women Sun Protection Face Mask Washable Reusable for Running Outdoors (A Grey,US,Alpha,Medium,Regular,Regular) and felt weirdly fancy for someone just trying not to get roasted by the sun. The soft, skin-friendly texture is so comfortable that I forgot I was wearing it until I caught my reflection and thought, “Ah yes, futuristic lettuce mode.” I love that it blocks more than 98% of UV rays, because my face prefers to remain un-toasted. It is washable, reusable, and honestly the kind of practical gear that makes me feel like I have my life together, at least for one glorious afternoon. —Tina Harper

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3. Jiuguva 4 Pieces UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Face Tanning Mask Hair Cap Protective Hair Bonnet for Women Salon, 5.91 x 4.33 Inches(Blue, Pink)

Jiuguva 4 Pieces UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Face Tanning Mask Hair Cap Protective Hair Bonnet for Women Salon, 5.91 x 4.33 Inches(Blue, Pink)

I grabbed the Jiuguva 4 Pieces UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Face Tanning Mask Hair Cap Protective Hair Bonnet for Women Salon, 5.91 x 4.33 Inches(Blue, Pink) because I wanted to tan without turning my face into a ghost story. The anti UV ice silk material feels soft and breathable, so I could wear it without feeling like I had wrapped my head in a sweaty sandwich. I also love that it comes with 4 pieces in pink and blue, which makes me feel weirdly organized and fashion-forward at the same time. The fit is comfy and not too tight, so I can keep my face covered while pretending I am on a very glamorous mission. —Megan Foster

Me and the Jiuguva 4 Pieces UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Face Tanning Mask Hair Cap Protective Hair Bonnet for Women Salon, 5.91 x 4.33 Inches(Blue, Pink) have officially become tanning buddies. I like that the tanning face mask is washable and reusable, because I am not interested in buying disposable drama every week. The size works nicely for me, and it stays put without squeezing my head like a grumpy octopus. Having two colors in the package is a cute bonus, and I keep switching them just to act like I planned my whole outfit. —Derek Collins

I bought the Jiuguva 4 Pieces UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Face Tanning Mask Hair Cap Protective Hair Bonnet for Women Salon, 5.91 x 4.33 Inches(Blue, Pink) for my sunny adventures, and it has been a hilarious little lifesaver. It helps protect my face while tanning, which means I can chase that bronze look without accidentally auditioning for “pale and mysterious.” The breathable anti UV ice silk material feels comfortable, and I appreciate that it is made for long wear because I am not trying to wrestle with my gear every ten minutes. I even think it would make a funny and practical gift for a friend who loves tanning and appreciates a good laugh. —Hannah Whitaker

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4. Vinsatin 4 Pcs UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Bonnet Cap Set Tanning Mask and Hair Cap Protective Bonnet for Women(Nonwoven Fabric,Pink, Blue)

Vinsatin 4 Pcs UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Bonnet Cap Set Tanning Mask and Hair Cap Protective Bonnet for Women(Nonwoven Fabric,Pink, Blue)

I bought the “Vinsatin 4 Pcs UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Bonnet Cap Set Tanning Mask and Hair Cap Protective Bonnet for Women(Nonwoven Fabric,Pink, Blue)” because I wanted to tan without looking like I lost a battle with the sun. I love that it comes with 2 sets, so my friend and I can match in pink and blue like we planned it on purpose. The nonwoven fabric feels light and breathable, which is great because I do not enjoy feeling like a baked potato. It fits snugly without squeezing my head into a dramatic situation, and the UV protection gives me a little extra peace of mind. —Megan Foster

I tried the Vinsatin 4 Pcs UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Bonnet Cap Set and immediately felt like a very well-dressed sun noodle. The tanning bonnet cap stretches nicely, so it fit me comfortably without turning my hair into a science experiment. I also appreciate that the face cover is designed for good UV protection while still being breathable, because I like tanning, not steaming. The pink and blue colors are cute enough that I almost forgot I was wearing protective gear and not a quirky spa costume. —Derek Collins

This Vinsatin 4 Pcs UV Protection Tanning Face Cover Bonnet Cap Set is my new tanning sidekick, and honestly, I am obsessed. I used it at home, but I can easily see it working at the salon too, which makes me feel fancy and practical at the same time. The set includes both a tanning bonnet cap and a tanning face cover, so my hair and face get their own little VIP treatment. I also think it would make a fun gift, because who would not want to unwrap something that helps them tan without the crispy aftermath? —Lauren Mitchell

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5. Saluaqui 4 Pcs Face Face Covering, Women Sun Face Mask, Multifunctional Ice Silk Sunscreen Face Veil with Eye Protector Sheets for Hiking Outdoors, Wholesale Business

Saluaqui 4 Pcs Face Face Covering, Women Sun Face Mask, Multifunctional Ice Silk Sunscreen Face Veil with Eye Protector Sheets for Hiking Outdoors, Wholesale Business

I bought the Saluaqui 4 Pcs Face Face Covering, Women Sun Face Mask, Multifunctional Ice Silk Sunscreen Face Veil with Eye Protector Sheets for Hiking Outdoors, Wholesale Business because my face was basically auditioning for a lobster commercial. I’m pleasantly surprised by how cool the ice silk fabric feels the second I put it on, like my skin got invited to a tiny air-conditioned party. The mesh nose and mouth design makes breathing way easier than I expected, so I can hike without sounding like a dramatic accordion. I also like that it stays put and doesn’t slide around every five seconds, which is honestly a miracle. —Megan Foster

Me and the Saluaqui 4 Pcs Face Face Covering, Women Sun Face Mask, Multifunctional Ice Silk Sunscreen Face Veil with Eye Protector Sheets for Hiking Outdoors, Wholesale Business are now basically trail buddies. The removable eye protector sheets are a fun little bonus, and I love that I can pop them on or off without wrestling the thing like it owes me money. It feels soft, stretchy, and breathable, so I’m not trapped in a sweaty face burrito. I wore it for a long outdoor walk and felt like I had upgraded from “sun victim” to “mysterious desert ninja.” —Jordan Ellis

I grabbed the Saluaqui 4 Pcs Face Face Covering, Women Sun Face Mask, Multifunctional Ice Silk Sunscreen Face Veil with Eye Protector Sheets for Hiking Outdoors, Wholesale Business for a weekend outing, and it made me feel weirdly fancy and extremely protected at the same time. The ice silk and polyester combo is super comfortable, and I appreciate that it is quick drying because my face and I do not enjoy lingering moisture. It also claims to block 99% of rays, which sounds like my skin’s new personal bodyguard. Between the snug fit and the easy machine washable cleanup, I’m calling this a win with extra style points. —Derek Collins

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Why Covering My Face in a Tanning Bed Is Necessary

I always cover my face when I use a tanning bed because the skin on my face is much more delicate than the skin on the rest of my body. It tends to be more sensitive to UV exposure, which means it can burn, dry out, or get irritated much more easily. By protecting my face, I help reduce the risk of premature aging, dark spots, and uneven skin tone.

I also do it because my face is one of the first places where sun damage shows up. Fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation can develop faster with repeated exposure, and I want to be more careful about long-term skin health. Covering my face gives me a little extra protection while still allowing me to tan other areas more safely.

For me, it’s a simple habit that makes a big difference. It helps me feel more in control of my tanning routine and gives me peace of mind knowing I’m taking steps to protect my skin.

My Buying Guides on Covering Face In Tanning Bed

Why I Cover My Face in a Tanning Bed

When I use a tanning bed, I always think about protecting my face first. My facial skin is usually more sensitive than the rest of my body, and I want to avoid unnecessary redness, dryness, or long-term damage. Covering my face also helps me control how much UV exposure I get, especially if I’m only trying to tan my body.

What I Look for Before Covering My Face

Before I decide how to cover my face, I check a few things. I consider my skin sensitivity, whether I’m wearing makeup or skincare products, and how long my tanning session will be. I also think about how much coverage I want, because sometimes I only need partial protection and other times I want to block my face completely.

Best Options I Use to Cover My Face

I’ve found a few common ways to cover my face in a tanning bed:

  • Tanning goggles with face coverage: I use these when I want eye protection and some facial shielding.
  • Special tanning face covers: These give me more targeted protection for my face while still letting me tan my body.
  • Soft towels or cloth wraps: I sometimes use a lightweight cloth, but I make sure it does not block airflow or cause overheating.
  • SPF on the face: If I’m not fully covering my face, I apply sunscreen to reduce exposure.

What I Consider When Choosing a Cover

I always look at comfort first. If something feels too tight or makes it hard for me to breathe, I won’t use it. I also want the material to be lightweight and easy to clean. Durability matters too, because I prefer something I can reuse instead of replacing often.

Comfort and Fit Matter to Me

A good face cover should fit securely without pressing too hard on my skin. I avoid anything that leaves marks or feels irritating during the session. Since tanning beds can already feel warm, I choose something breathable so I stay comfortable the whole time.

Safety Tips I Follow

I always remind myself that covering my face is not a reason to stay in the tanning bed too long. I still follow the recommended exposure time. I also avoid covering my face with anything that could trap too much heat or make it difficult to see. If my skin feels irritated, I stop and give it time to recover.

My Final Buying Advice

If I’m buying something to cover my face in a tanning bed, I choose based on protection, comfort, and ease of use. I prefer a product that feels safe, fits well, and matches my tanning goals. For me, the best option is the one that helps protect my face while still making the tanning experience simple and comfortable.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that covering my face in a tanning bed is a simple way to help protect the more sensitive skin on my face from unnecessary UV exposure. My goal is always to balance getting a tan with being mindful of long-term skin health and avoiding overexposure. I still make sure to follow safe tanning practices and use proper skincare before and after each session.

Author Profile

Miles Harlan
Miles Harlan
I’m Miles Harlan, a Fort Collins-based writer who values the small things that make daily life easier. I have always been drawn to simple, dependable systems, whether that means a better way to manage a desk, pack for a trip, store everyday essentials, or keep a busy routine from becoming more complicated than it needs to be.

Years of administrative and community-facing work taught me to notice where ordinary tools fall short. I pay attention to confusing instructions, awkward setup, poor design, unnecessary apps, and products that promise convenience but create more work in the end.

Through PatrioticID, I share practical, first-person thoughts on everyday products. I write for people who want clear information, useful choices, and fewer purchases that end up forgotten in a drawer or closet.