Tanning is not always as simple as just lying down. Anyone who thought it was knows better now, because they wound up with white stripes down their sides! Follow these tips for a more even tan.

First, if you can find a stand-up booth, it solves the problem of uneven tanning. However, many people prefer tanning beds because they find them more relaxing.

The problem occurs because the sides of the tanning bed are open and thus there is a gap on both sides. But lying with your arms raised over your head WILL help minimize the white stripes on your sides. If you can rotate your body at a slight angle while you tan, for equal time on both sides, this will eliminate the unevenness all-together.

Some tanners have experienced uneven tans on their shoulders, behinds, and the backs of their legs because of the pressure exerted by lying on them. Turning on your stomach halfway through your tanning will give you an even tan on your back and your front.

One more tip: Sometimes, the white stripes on your sides are not so much from the gaps in the tanning bed but more because you have not applied your tanning lotion evenly. It is easy to forget your sides and hips, especially if you are in a hurry or if you are concentrating so hard on getting the stuff on your back. Make sure you apply evenly all around your torso, and you will soon see your tan start to even out.