If you're like most people, you love having that summer, sun-kissed glow. To keep it all year round, try tanning beds, which you can find at many salons and spas. These beds tan your skin using UV rays generated by fluorescent bulbs. Tanning beds are not exactly the same as tanning in natural sunlight, though, so you need to learn special steps to protect yourself. Here are 6 easy ways to start:

* Limit your exposure. Because every tanning bed varies in shape, size, and intensity, you will have to determine how much time you can safely spend in every bed you use. Tanning beds are legally required to display their maximum amount of exposure, so you will have this information readily accessible. As a general rule, don't ever spend more than 20 minutes at a time tanning, and never tan more than 2 days in a row.

* Protect delicate body parts. Many parts of your body, especially your face, are particularly susceptible to UV radiation. Just closing your eyes won't keep them safe; you need to wear goggles. (If you can't find any at your tanning salon, bring your own pair from home.) To protect your lips, just wear lip balm with sunscreen. Nose plugs will keep your mucous membranes safe and healthy.

* Start slow. Gradually work up how much time you spend in the tanning bed. Start by spending 4-5 minutes in your first sessions, and build up your exposure over a few weeks. In 3-4 weeks, you can probably safely handle the amount of exposure for the specific bed you use.

* Wear sunscreen. Even though you're inside, your skin is still exposed to UV rays, and special lotions are available at your salon to reduce the risks associated with UV radiation - especially skin cancer. Use products with beta-carotene and vitamin A to make your tan look natural.

* Clean up. If you're using your personal bed, always disinfect your bed with an antibacterial cleanser before and after each use. This will reduce the risk of transmitting certain diseases and lice. If you're using a bed in a public salon, make sure the management cleans them between uses, and don't be afraid to ask for a free hygienic wipe.

* Circulate air. Fans are critically important when you're using a tanning bed, because they help prevent overheating - a serious problem that should not be taken lightly. If your bed doesn't have an internal fan, set one up outside the bed that will blow air on it during your session.

Tanning beds aren't for everyone. For example, if you are prone to sunburns or have skin that is sensitive to UV rays, you might want to consider using a self-tanner or visiting a spray tanning booth. But with responsible use and careful planning, tanning beds are a safe way to keep your "just got back from the beach" look all year long!

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