Quick Answer
Some Planet Fitness locations sell indoor tanning lotion at the front desk, but it is not guaranteed. Clubs are mostly franchise-owned, so whether lotion is stocked, which brands, and prices vary by location. Tanning itself is a PF Black Card perk at clubs that offer it. Call your club or ask at the desk, and bring your own indoor tanning lotion and eye protection to be safe.
Key Takeaways
- Lotion availability depends on the individual club; there is no chain-wide guarantee.
- Tanning is included with the PF Black Card at clubs that have tanning equipment.
- Use lotion made for indoor tanning; outdoor oils can leave residue on bed acrylic.
- Wear UV-protective goggles every session; regular sunglasses are not enough.
- UV tanning raises skin cancer risk, so consider sunless options.
If you are heading to Planet Fitness for a tanning session, it helps to know what you can buy on site and what you should pack. Because nearly every Planet Fitness club is independently owned and operated by a franchisee, retail items like lotion, goggles and drinks differ from club to club. Here is what to expect and how to tan more safely.
Does Planet Fitness Sell Tanning Lotion?
Many clubs keep a small selection of indoor tanning lotions or single-use packets behind the front desk, while others sell none at all. Selection is usually limited compared with a dedicated tanning salon, and items can sell out. Planet Fitness does not publish a standard lotion list or price list for all clubs.
The easiest way to know is to call your home club, ask at the front desk, or check with staff during your next workout. If lotion is important to your routine, buy your preferred indoor tanning lotion from a beauty retailer, salon or online and keep it in your gym bag.
How Does Tanning Work at Planet Fitness?
| Question | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Who can tan? | PF Black Card members, at clubs that offer tanning |
| Membership cost | Black Card has long been $24.99 a month; Planet Fitness announced a move to $29.99 for new Black Card members in 2026, and fees vary by club |
| Equipment | Varies by club: UV tanning beds or stand-up booths; some clubs also have red-light or other non-UV beauty machines |
| Booking | Usually at the front desk or through the club’s process; session length and frequency are set by the club and the equipment |
| Lotion | Sometimes sold at the front desk; bring your own to be sure |
| Eye protection | Required for UV tanning; some clubs sell goggles |
Classic members do not get tanning; you need to upgrade to Black Card. Because clubs differ in equipment and rules, confirm details with your own location before you go.
What Kind of Tanning Lotion Should You Use?
Use a lotion labeled for indoor tanning. These products are formulated to moisturize skin under UV lamps and are generally considered compatible with tanning bed acrylic. Many salons ask guests to avoid outdoor tanning oils and some heavy sunscreens on the beds because they can leave residue that dulls the acrylic shields.
Accelerators
Basic indoor lotions focused on hydration. A common starting point for new or fair-skinned tanners.
Bronzers
Contain cosmetic or DHA bronzing ingredients that add color right away or over several hours. Apply evenly and wash hands afterward to avoid orange palms.
Tingle lotions
Contain ingredients that cause warmth and redness on the skin. They are intended for experienced tanners and can irritate sensitive skin. Never use them on your face.
Tip: Patch-test any new lotion on a small area of skin a day before using it all over, especially bronzers and tingle formulas.
Is Tanning at Planet Fitness Safe?
Indoor UV tanning carries real health risks no matter where you do it. The World Health Organization’s cancer research agency classifies UV-emitting tanning devices as carcinogenic to humans, and the FDA requires warnings on sunlamp products. Health organizations such as the American Academy of Dermatology advise against indoor tanning, and many states restrict or ban UV tanning for minors.
Safety: If you choose to tan, wear UV-protective goggles, start with short sessions, wait at least 48 hours between sessions, and stop if your skin burns. People with a history of skin cancer, many moles, very fair skin, or who take medications that increase sun sensitivity should talk to a doctor first.
What Should You Bring to Tan at Planet Fitness?
- Indoor tanning lotion (in case your club has none)
- UV-protective tanning goggles
- Lip balm with SPF to protect lips
- A towel and a change of loose, dark clothing
- Makeup remover wipes, so you tan on clean skin
How Do You Prepare Your Skin for an Even Tan?
- Exfoliate gently a day before to remove dead skin.
- Shower and skip heavy creams, perfumes and deodorant right before tanning; some fragrances can increase skin sensitivity.
- Apply indoor lotion evenly, including the backs of arms and legs.
- Moisturize afterward to keep skin from drying out.
If your skin tends to get oily after workouts, our tips on how to reduce oily skin can help you balance hydration with lotion use.
Sunless Alternatives to UV Tanning
- Self-tanning lotions and mousses: DHA-based products build color over several hours without UV.
- Professional spray tans: Even, quick color at a salon, usually lasting about a week.
- Gradual tanning moisturizers: Subtle color over a few days of daily use.
- Bronzing makeup: Temporary color that washes off.
Sunless tans do not protect against sunburn, so keep using sunscreen outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own tanning lotion to Planet Fitness?
Yes, members commonly bring their own lotion. Choose a product labeled for indoor tanning beds, since some clubs and salons discourage outdoor oils that can leave residue on the bed acrylic. Ask your club if it has any product restrictions.
Is tanning free with a Planet Fitness Black Card?
Tanning is included as a Black Card perk at clubs that offer tanning equipment, so there is no separate per-session fee at those locations. Not every club has tanning, and session rules vary, so check with your home club.
Can Classic members tan at Planet Fitness?
No. Tanning is a Black Card benefit, so Classic members need to upgrade their membership to use tanning beds or booths. Some clubs may offer upgrade options at the front desk.
Do you have to wear goggles in a Planet Fitness tanning bed?
Yes, you should always wear UV-protective tanning goggles in any UV tanning bed or booth. Closing your eyes or wearing sunglasses does not block enough UV light. Some clubs sell goggles, but bringing your own is easiest.
Do Planet Fitness tanning beds work without lotion?
You can tan without lotion, but skin tends to dry out and color may look less even. Indoor tanning lotion keeps skin hydrated during and after the session. Lotion does not make UV exposure safer, so limit sessions regardless.
