Eye protection is the single most important piece of safety equipment you need in a tanning bed — and it is one that many people skip, either out of convenience or the mistaken belief that closing their eyes is sufficient. It is not. Eyelids block almost none of the UV radiation produced by tanning beds, leaving your eyes directly exposed to levels of UV that are significantly more intense than outdoor sunlight.
The good news is that tanning goggles are inexpensive, comfortable when fitted correctly, and the difference between wearing a good pair and nothing at all is the difference between protecting your long-term vision and accumulating damage that builds silently over years of sessions. This is a non-negotiable piece of kit for anyone who uses a tanning bed regularly.
Below we cover everything you need to know before buying — what to look for, the different types available, and our six top-tested picks across a range of budgets and preferences.
Key Takeaways
- Eyelids alone block very little UV radiation — closing your eyes in a tanning bed does not protect your vision
- UV damage to the eyes is cumulative and includes risks of cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis
- Tanning goggles should block at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays and ideally cover wavelengths from 200 to 400nm
- Polycarbonate lenses offer the best combination of UV protection, durability, and lightweight comfort
- Slim-profile goggles minimise the “raccoon eye” white ring effect after tanning
- Our top overall pick is the Super Sunnies — they offer excellent UV protection, a slim fit, and an adjustable band at a very affordable price
- Tanning eye stickers are the only real alternative to goggles that provide adequate protection
Why Eye Protection in Tanning Beds Is Non-Negotiable
Tanning bed lamps emit UV radiation — primarily UVA, with some UVB — at intensities that can be significantly higher than peak outdoor sunlight. While your skin is designed to absorb and respond to UV light (producing melanin as a protective response), your eyes are not. The structures of the eye — the cornea, lens, and retina — are highly sensitive to UV exposure and have no equivalent protective response.
Closing your eyes during a session offers almost no protection. Research published in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology and Photomedicine confirms that the eyelid transmits a significant proportion of UV radiation, meaning the eye beneath is still receiving exposure even when the lid is shut. The risks of repeated unprotected UV exposure to the eyes include:
- Photokeratitis — effectively a sunburn of the cornea, causing pain, temporary vision loss, and light sensitivity
- Cataracts — UV exposure is a leading risk factor for cataract development, causing the lens of the eye to cloud over time
- Macular degeneration — cumulative UV damage to the retina can contribute to age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss
- Pterygium — UV-induced growth of tissue across the surface of the eye
- Increased risk of ocular melanoma — tanning bed UV exposure has been linked to elevated risk of cancers of the eye
None of these conditions develop overnight, which is partly why many regular tanners underestimate the risk. The damage is cumulative and often silent for years before it becomes apparent. Wearing goggles consistently is the only effective way to prevent it. For the same reason, knowing how to use a tanning bed correctly — including session length and frequency — matters just as much as your choice of eyewear.
What to Look For When Buying Tanning Goggles
UV Protection Rating
The most important specification. Look for goggles that block at least 99% of UVA and UVB radiation. Any quality tanning goggle will state this on the packaging. Avoid anything that does not specify its UV blocking capability — protection level is the only thing that genuinely matters from a safety perspective.
Wavelength Range
Tanning bed lamps typically emit UV across a range from around 280 to 400nm. Your goggles should ideally be rated to cover at least 200 to 400nm. Many of the higher-quality options on this list are rated up to 1500nm or 2000nm, which also makes them usable for light therapy devices.
Lens Material
Polycarbonate is the best lens material for tanning goggles. It is lightweight, impact-resistant, and provides excellent UV-blocking properties. Avoid flimsy plastic lenses that can scratch easily or degrade with repeated heat and UV exposure.
Fit and Seal
A goggle that does not sit flush against the face allows UV light to leak around the edges — defeating the purpose. Look for goggles with a flexible nose bridge that adapts to different face shapes, and a secure but comfortable fit around the eye socket. A well-sealing goggle also means less chance of a visible tan line around the eyes after your session.
Profile and Tan Lines
Thicker, bulkier goggles create more pronounced white rings around the eyes — what most tanners refer to as the “raccoon eye” effect. Slim-profile eye cups minimise this. If avoiding tan lines around the eyes is a priority, look for goggles with the smallest possible eye cup that still provides full coverage and protection.
Vision Capability
Some tanning goggles are effectively blackout — you cannot see anything through them. Others allow a degree of tinted vision. Blackout goggles are fine for most people who simply lie still during their session. If you prefer to be able to see — to use your phone or read a timer, for example — look for a goggle that allows some vision, even if tinted.
Strap Type and Adjustability
An elastic strap is preferable to a rubber one — elastic holds its stretch better over time and is less likely to snap. An adjustable strap is useful if you want a snug fit across different head sizes or hairstyles. Some people prefer to wear goggles without a strap when lying flat, and several options on this list accommodate that.
Types of Tanning Eye Protection
There are three main options for protecting your eyes in a tanning bed:
Tanning Goggles — the standard and most widely used option. A small, purpose-built goggle with UV-blocking lenses and an elastic or rubber strap. Reusable, affordable, and the most comfortable option for regular use.
Tanning Eye Stickers — adhesive opaque stickers that press directly onto the closed eyelid. They provide 100% light blockage and leave no strap tan line, but they need replacing after each session, can be uncomfortable to remove, and are more expensive over time than a reusable goggle. A good option for occasional use or if goggle-free tan lines are a priority.
Regular Sunglasses — not an adequate substitute. Standard sunglasses are not designed to block the UV wavelengths and intensities produced by tanning bed lamps and do not provide the sealed coverage needed to protect the full eye area. Do not use them as a replacement.
Our Top 6 Best Tanning Goggles
#1 Super Sunnies Evo Tanning Goggles
The Super Sunnies Evo are our top pick overall and the most consistently recommended tanning goggle across the board. They block 99% of UVA and UVB rays and are built as a single moulded piece — no nose bridge or components to come loose mid-session. The slim eye cups do an excellent job of minimising the raccoon-eye tan line effect, which is a genuine practical advantage for regular tanners.
The flexible nose bridge is high-rising and adapts well to most face shapes, and the elastic headband provides a secure, adjustable fit regardless of head size. The material is stiff enough to hold its shape but flexible enough to remain comfortable for a full session. They work for standard UV tanning and the price makes them accessible to everyone.
The main caveat: the lenses can occasionally be inconsistent in quality at this price point — some pairs have lenses that scratch more easily or are slightly prone to popping out. Handle with care and they will last well. For the price, they are exceptional value.
- Blocks 99% UVA and UVB
- Single-piece moulded construction
- Slim eye cups minimise tan lines
- High-rise flexible nose bridge
- Adjustable elastic headband
- Very affordable
Best for: Regular tanners who want reliable everyday protection without spending much.
#2 USUIE Blackout Tanning Glasses
The USUIE glasses are a step up in build quality from the Super Sunnies, with polycarbonate lenses rated to block wavelengths from 380 to 1500nm — making them suitable for both tanning beds and light therapy devices. The polycarbonate construction is noticeably more durable than entry-level alternatives, and they come with a glasses case and cleaning cloth, which makes them easy to store and transport cleanly.
These are true blackout glasses — you cannot see anything through them — so they are best suited for people who simply lie still and relax during their session. The polished, smooth frame edges are comfortable against the skin, and the side grilles provide ventilation that prevents fogging, which is a common irritation with cheaper sealed designs.
If you damage a pair, they are returnable for replacement — a good indication of the manufacturer’s confidence in their build quality. The price is higher than the Super Sunnies, but the case, cleaning cloth, and durability make it justifiable for regular use.
- Polycarbonate lenses rated 380–1500nm
- Side grilles prevent fogging
- Glasses case and cloth included
- Suitable for tanning beds and light therapy
- Returnable for replacement if damaged
Best for: Regular tanners who want more durable, longer-lasting goggles and appreciate included storage.
#3 Angrycat Sun Tanning Goggles
The Angrycat goggles stand out on this list for two reasons: they come in a pack of two, and they allow a degree of vision through the tinted green lenses — which is unusual at this price point. They are rated from 200 to 2000nm, making them one of the broader-spectrum options available, and they work equally well for sun tanning outdoors and tanning bed sessions.
The vision capability through these goggles is limited — everything has a dark green tint — but it is entirely sufficient to check a timer or be aware of your surroundings during a session, which some people find more comfortable than being in complete blackout. The strap is thin and adjustable, fitting virtually any head size without creating visible strap tan lines.
The plastic case doubles as a carry box, which makes them easy to take to the salon. For the price — and particularly the two-pair value — these are excellent.
- Pack of 2 — great value
- Allows tinted vision (dark green)
- Rated 200–2000nm wavelength range
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor tanning
- Thin, adjustable strap
- Carry case included
Best for: People who prefer to maintain some vision during their session, or those who want a spare pair.
#4 JILERWEAR Tanning Eyewear
The JILERWEAR goggles are the most versatile option on this list in terms of certified use cases. They meet EN207, A1EN207, and A1 standards for laser eyewear protection — meaning they are certified for use not just in tanning beds but also for hair removal and freckle treatment laser devices, and general workshop or lab environments. If you use multiple UV or laser devices, these are the practical all-in-one choice.
The polycarbonate curved lens provides full 360-degree coverage, which reduces eye fatigue during longer sessions. One practical advantage that sets them apart: the frame is designed wide enough that prescription glasses can be worn underneath — a meaningful benefit for anyone who normally wears glasses and has struggled with fitting standard tanning goggles over them.
They come in one size only, so check the dimensions before purchasing to ensure a good fit. A proper hard-shell glasses case is included for protection between uses.
- Meets EN207, A1EN207, and A1 certification standards
- Suitable for tanning beds and laser devices
- 360-degree polycarbonate lens coverage
- Compatible with prescription glasses underneath
- Hard-shell glasses case included
Best for: Prescription glasses wearers, or anyone who also uses laser-based beauty devices and wants one pair of goggles for everything.
#5 Flex Pods Tanning Bed Glasses
The Flex Pods stand out for their soft, flexible material construction — unlike the harder plastic of most tanning goggles, these mould gently around the eye area and provide a cushioned, comfortable seal. They block 99% of UV rays while still allowing some vision through the lenses, striking a good balance between protection and usability. The soft material also means they are less likely to create pressure marks during longer sessions.
They come in a range of bright colours — orange, green, pink, blue, and purple — which is a welcome change from the standard black. The elastic string can be used for secure fit when moving between positions, or removed entirely if you prefer to wear them without a strap when lying flat in the bed.
A solid all-round performer that particularly suits people who find rigid goggles uncomfortable for extended sessions.
- Soft, flexible material — comfortable for longer sessions
- Blocks 99% of UV rays
- Allows some vision through the lenses
- Available in multiple colours
- Elastic strap included, usable without strap when lying flat
Best for: Anyone who finds hard plastic tanning goggles uncomfortable, or those who want a bit of colour variety.
#6 Sperti Tanning Booth Glasses
The Sperti goggles take a more minimal, sleek approach compared to the other options on this list. The green-tinted lenses have a UV-protective coating rated from 200 to 400nm, and both the nosepiece and rubber strap are fully adjustable for a personalised fit. If you prefer something that looks more like a conventional small eyeglass than a traditional tanning goggle, the Sperti’s profile will appeal.
There are a couple of practical limitations worth knowing about: the rubber strap is more prone to snapping than an elastic one if stretched too aggressively, so handle it carefully. They are also on the less-cushioned end of the comfort spectrum, which can become noticeable during longer sessions. They are better suited to shorter tanning sessions than extended ones.
- Slim, minimal profile
- UV-protective green lenses rated 200–400nm
- Fully adjustable nosepiece and strap
- Sleek, low-profile design
Best for: Tanners who prefer the most minimal, streamlined profile and keep their sessions on the shorter side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tanning goggles required by law?
In the United States, the FDA requires tanning facilities to provide eye protection to clients and advise them on its use. Many states have additional regulations requiring goggles to be worn during every session. Even where it is not legally mandated, skipping eye protection in a tanning bed is strongly inadvisable for the health reasons outlined above.
Can you keep your eyes closed instead of wearing goggles?
No — closing your eyes does not adequately protect your vision in a tanning bed. Research confirms that eyelids transmit a significant portion of UV radiation, allowing it to reach the cornea and lens beneath. Over time this causes cumulative damage that closed eyelids alone cannot prevent. Goggles or eye stickers are the only effective protection.
What is the difference between tanning goggles and tanning eye stickers?
Tanning goggles are reusable and sit over the eye like small glasses. Tanning eye stickers are adhesive opaque patches that press directly onto the closed eyelid with no strap. Stickers leave no strap tan line and block 100% of light, but they are single-use (adding ongoing cost), some people find removal uncomfortable, and they do not provide the sealed coverage around the eye socket that goggles offer. For regular tanners, reusable goggles are the more practical and cost-effective choice.
Do tanning goggles leave white rings around the eyes?
Goggles with larger, bulkier eye cups can leave a visible white ring — the classic raccoon-eye effect. Slim-profile goggles like the Super Sunnies are specifically designed to minimise this. The smaller the eye cup, the less untanned skin around the eye — while still providing full protection. Eye stickers are the option that eliminates this completely.
Can I use regular sunglasses in a tanning bed?
No. Regular sunglasses are not designed or tested for the UV intensities produced by tanning bed lamps. They do not provide an adequate seal around the eye, allowing UV to reach the eye from the sides and below, and their lenses are not rated for tanning bed wavelengths. Only purpose-made tanning goggles or tanning eye stickers should be used.
How do I clean and care for tanning goggles?
Wipe the lenses after each use with the cloth provided (if included) or a soft, clean microfibre cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can degrade the UV-protective coating on the lenses. Store them in a case when not in use to prevent scratching. Check the lenses regularly for scratches or damage — a scratched lens may not provide consistent UV protection and should be replaced.
Conclusion
Tanning goggles are one of the smallest investments you will make as a regular tanner and one of the most important. The UV output of a tanning bed is not something your eyelids can handle on their own, and the cumulative damage from repeated unprotected sessions is real — even if it takes years to manifest as a visible problem.
Our top overall recommendation is the Super Sunnies for most people — they offer excellent UV protection, a slim profile, and an adjustable fit at a price that makes replacing them whenever needed completely painless. If durability and storage are priorities, the USUIE is worth the step up. For prescription glasses wearers, the JILERWEAR is the clear choice.
For everything else you need to get the most out of your tanning bed sessions, check our guides to the best tanning bed lotions and how to tan faster in a tanning bed.
References
UV Eye Damage and Tanning Bed Risk:
Dain, S.J., et al. (2013). Photodermatology, Photoimmunology and Photomedicine. “Eye protection in tanning units.” Research examining UV transmission through eyelids and the necessity of appropriate eye protection during indoor tanning, including documented risks of photokeratitis, cataract development, and other UV-related ocular conditions.
Tanning Bed UV Exposure and Cancer Risk:
Schneider, S., et al. (2021). International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. “Tanning Bed Use and Melanoma Risk.” Study confirming elevated skin and ocular cancer risk associated with indoor tanning bed use, supporting the importance of all protective measures including adequate eye protection during sessions.