Frequently Asked Questions
Over the years, our customers have had many questions concerning the tanning process. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions below. If your questions are not addressed here, feel free to contact our knowledgeable staff.
Is indoor UV tanning safe?
Artificial UV tanning comes with the same benefits and risks as outdoor tanning. Both are enjoyable and can improve how you feel about your appearance, but proper care must be taken. Our tanning
beds meet FDA requirements and are rated for maximum exposure time. In addition, our technicians are trained to identify the most effective way to achieve your desired result.
How does it work?
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet (UV) light rays, which are called UVA and UVB. Indoor tanning equipment uses powerful lamps to reproduce this UV light with a mix of UVA and UVB rays.
UVA are mainly browning rays that turn your skin's melanin from pink to brown. This is your body's natural protection from the sun. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB, are less harmful
and take a few hours to produce their full results.
UVB rays stimulate your skin's melanocyte cells, which in turn bring more melanin to the surface. These rays penetrate the skin less deeply, add a natural sheen to your skin and take slightly less
time to show their full effect.
Tanning Q & A
Does Skin Type Matter
The short answer is: yes, skin type matters a great deal!
Skin types I and II burn easily and tan minimally if at all. Skin type III burns moderately and tans gradually. Skin type IV tans well and skin types V and VI rarely or never burn and tan very
easily.
For first-time customers, our tanning technicians will help identify your skin type and determine the best course of action for your desired tan.
Why do I feel better when I tan?
It's no big secret, when you look good, you feel great! Experts have known for years that there are many psychological benefits to tanning. Looking better is just one of the benefits. Seasonal
Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is a condition that affects 35 million Americans during the winter. It's symptoms are mood swings, increased appetite and excessive sleeping. For years doctors have
treated this condition with full-spectrum light therapy. New research, using ultraviolet light on the skin, has shown positive results as well.
Sunlight exposure (exposure to UV light) is your body's main source for Vitamin D - an essential vitamin for bone formation and repair, absorption of calcium and phosphorus and general good health. In many climates, the small amount of sunlight available from November to March makes it impossible to process Vitamin D naturally through outdoor sun exposure. That is why as much as 40% of the population suffers from Vitamin D deficiency, and more than one-third with adequate Vitamin D in their diets are still short of this important vitamin. Lack of sunlight and the resulting Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to higher risk of many health disorders, including osteoporosis and depression.
Several variables will determine which type of equipment is best for you. Some of these variables are your budget, your time restraints and your overall tanning goals. Our Tanning Consultants are specially trained to help you determine your best course of action.
Do I need to make an appointment?
No.....However if you do, you will be guarenteed to get the unit you want. Or feel free to drop in anytime it's convenient for you to use any of the other equipment.
Please consult your physician. Although we know that there is no danger from UV rays since they cannot penetrate deeper than the dermis (skin layer), pregnant women are advised to be cautious with saunas, hot tubs and other things that can cause excessive heat to build up in the uterus. If your physician okays your tanning, speak to a Tanning Consultant about which units and times of day are the coolest.
There is an Urban Legend about a "Roasted Tanner" who supposedly roasted her internal organs by tanning too much. Don't give it a second thought. A UVA ray (the rays in tanning beds) can only travel as deep as the dermis which is the middle skin layer. UVB can't even travel that deep! There is absolutely no danger of Ultraviolet light damaging any internal organs.
If I don't tan well outside, can I get a tan in a tanning bed?
Is tanning lotion really necessary?
Yes, while tanning lotion is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended and will make a big difference in the quality of your tan and your skin. Your body makes use of many ingredients in addition to UV-light to produce a tan. Indoor tanning accelerators are designed to provide you with a balanced amount of these essential ingredients to achieve a better tan. Dry skin reflects tanning rays so for best results, drench your skin with an indoor tanning lotion just prior to tanning.
Is it alright to shower right after tanning?
How old do I have to be to tan without my parents consent?
The Benefits of Indoor Tanning!
Vitamin D Production
One of the most significant benefits of regular, modest exposure to UV radiation is the production of vitamin D, in fact, exposure to UVB is the only method your body has for making vitamin D. New
evidence supports a crucial role for vitamin D in reducing the risk of prostate, breast, colon and skin cancer as well as osteoporosis.
Immune Suppression
Some scientist believe the UV induced suppression of the skins immune system maybe a
contributing factor in the development of skin cancer. Most scientist note however, that this immune suppression reduces the severity of psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis and skin allergy, such as
poison ivy.
Natural Protection From Excessive UV Exposure
Another significant benefit is the development of a natural defense against over exposure. The skin darkens and thickens in response to UV radiation, generating an approximate natural SPF of 3. It is
important to note, however, that this protection isn't proof against over exposure - clients can still burn themselves if they didn't use additional protection when out in the sun for long
periods.
Controlled Exposure
Tanning units deliver a dependable, consistent dose of UV radiation. A dose that can be reduced and modified each time a client tans. In contrast, the level of radiation in sun exposure vary as much
as 100 percent from day to day, and change almost hourly during each day.
Feeling Good
Many clients report feeling relaxed after an indoor tanning session. A definite benefit in today's hectic world. Although there's no definite research to support such claims, many individuals suggest
indoor tanning can be effective in easing mild depression.
Management Of Eczema and Psoriasis
Now, doctors often recommend UV therapy (basically tanning bed lights) to reduce the symptoms of Eczema and Psoriasis. Exposure to UV rays is one of the best natural treatments for many of these skin conditions.