Tanning – Frequently Asked Questions
Tanning – Key Largo Fitness & Tanning, Common Questions & Answers
Why should I tan indoors?
Simply put – indoor tanning allows you to tap into a wonderful source of life and energy (sunshine!) – while following the Golden Rule of smart tanning: never sunburn. Indoor tanning provides you with the control that you do not possess outside. When you’re outdoors, it’s easy to lose track of time and develop a burn. But in a tanning bed, you get carefully controlled dosages to prevent overexposure.
What are the potential benefits of tanning?
Of course, there’s that attractive golden brown look that so many of us crave. But there are health benefits too, from UV light. UV light is the main source of Vitamin D, which is necessary for good health, bone formation and repair, and the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Vitamin D can reduce the risks of developing breast and colon cancers. Research shows that incidences of these types of cancers are actually lower in sunny climates. In addition, UV light is an effective treatment for some skin disorders and psychological disorders. There are numerous physical and psychological reasons that UV exposure is desirable.
In addition, a tan provides limited sun protection (approximately equal to SPF 2-4)
What Should I Wear When I Tan?
Quality Tanning Lotion is a MUST!
Salon tanning lotion and eye protection – clothing is optional!
Many of our clients wear swimsuits when they tan, but others prefer to tan in the nude to avoid tan lines. Because of the privacy of indoor tanning, that’s perfectly okay. You do need to be careful when exposing sensitive skin to ultraviolet light – those body parts should tan slowly.
You should use a salon-quality lotion when you tan to enhance tanning results and properly nourish your skin. Many discount lotions (especially those containing mineral oil or baby oil) erode the acrylic surfaces of our tanning equipment (meaning more frequent replacement and higher costs to you) – and some are actually bad for your skin. The moisturizers in the tanning accelerators we use and recommend help you absorb UV rays, which means that you’ll tan about twice as fast and keep your tan twice as long. SPF lipbalm is also important, since lips are especially susceptible to burning.
You should also wear FDA approved eyewear because UV light causes damage to the eye over time that can result in night blindness or color blindness. Closing your eyes or using sunglasses or cotton balls isn’t good enough – UV rays can easily penetrate them and cause damage. The eyewear we supply meets federal government standards by blocking 99% of UVA and UVB rays.
Is There Anyone Who Should Not Tan?
Some people are photosensitive, or become so when taking common medications – it’s a good idea to ask your doctor about photosensitivity, especially if you’re on prescription medications.
Limit Sun Exposure for Children
Children (up to age 16) should not tan, since skin is still developing and more susceptible to damage.
Pregnant women should not tan without their doctor’s consent. The UV rays do not penetrate to the uterus, but as with saunas and hot tubs, indoor tanning can cause excessive heat to build up. If your doctor does give the okay for tanning, please tell your tanning consultant about your pregnancy.
We also suggest that you remove contact lenses when tanning – the heat may cause drying and discomfort.
How Often Should I Tan?
When you’re building your base tan, tanning every 2 or 3 days is considered effective, moderate exposure. Your body continues to tan for 12 to 24 hours after exposure to the sun or a tanning unit – which is one reason it is NOT advisable to tan two days in a row. (You may get an unintentional burn.) Also, nutrients such as tyrosine, magnesium, copper and zinc are depleted every time you tan – you need a couple of days to replenish your body.
Normally, you’ll have a good base tan in six to ten sessions – then once or twice a week thereafter should be fine.
How Do I Maintain My Tan and Make It Last?
Tans occur in the top layer of your skin – and your skin renews itself every 5 to 7 days when you expose it to UVB rays. When you shed your old (tanned) skin, new (not tan) skin comes to the surface.
Dry skin sheds more quickly, so drinking plenty of water and keeping your skin moisturized with a high quality lotion will help keep your skin healthy and tanned.
