Hi Siren3:
I tan on a regular basis, usually starting in April, and continue through September. I tan for me ---it makes me feel better!! You won't get any lectures from me.
The most important thing to remember is to start slow. I have light-medium skin that burns easily and is hard to tan.
For my first 3 sessions, I only do 8 minutes, then up it to 10 for 3 more. After that, I am ready for the maximum of 15 minutes. I go to a place that had 3 levels of beds. I use a "2 star" bed, the medium level.
For me, the indoor tanning lotions do not help, so I don't use any thing.
This will definitely dry your skin, so make sure you moisturize when you are done.
Rubydoo.