How
is the maximum exposure time for a tanning session determined?
The FDA
determines an exposure schedule based on the intensity of each
individual model of sunlamp and each type of equipment. Your
salon professional complies with that schedule, and takes your
skin type and tanning history into consideration.
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Is indoor tanning as effective as outdoor
tanning?
Yes, in
fact sometimes more so because you are in a controlled environment
which blocks out the majority of harmful UV rays. The result
and convenience of an "indoor tan" allows a year round
healthy looking tan without concerns of prolonged exposure to
the burning rays of the sun.
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How long will it take to see results?
Every person
tans differently but most will see color change after the first
few sessions. Normally, you will have a good base tan in 6-10
(depending on skin type) consecutive sessions. One or two sessions
a week thereafter will maintain your tan year round for most
people. There are special cells in the skin called melanocytes.
Ultraviolet B rays stimulate these cells and cause them to produce
melanin. As these cells migrate to the surface of the skin,
ultraviolet A rays oxide them; thus creating a tan. Each of
us has a different amount of melanin. Fair-skinned, fair-haired
people generally have less than dark-haired, dark-skinned people.
This determines, for the most part, how quickly your skin will
tan.
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Can I use outdoor oils and lotions in
the tanning unit?
Just as
the word indicates, outdoor products should ONLY be used outdoors.
Outdoor lotions actually clog your pores when used with indoor
equipment. This actually inhibits the tanning process, rather
than acting as an amplifying agent. There are several excellent
indoor lotions/oils for that purpose - talk to us! We have recommendations
that suit your skin type.
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If I have a good base tan, is it still
possible to burn outdoors?
Having a
good base tan does provide a defense mechanism, but should you
overexpose, whether indoors or out, the chance of burning is
possible. We highly recommend using sunscreens outdoors - especially
if you're going to southern climates for vacation.
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If
I have difficulty tanning outdoors, will the same be true in a
tanning unit?
Each
person tans differently. Some skin types tan quickly and easily
while others may require more sessions. If you are unable to
tan outdoors, you may be one of those people who will take longer
to produce a good color or may never show a significant tan
because of lack of pigment. Approximately 5% of the population
is unable to tan. Try our "UV-FREE" Mystic Spray Spa!
Tanning Services
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What should I wear to tan?
Many people
choose to wear a swimsuit, just as they would on the beach.
Because of the privacy of indoor tanning, most prefer to tan
in the nude to avoid tan lines. Any skin that has never been
exposed to ultraviolet light before will be more sensitive!
These parts must acquire a tan slowly.
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Will tanning lighten my hair?
If you tan
regularly, and if your hair lightens when you tan outdoors,
the same is likely to happen in a tanning unit. By covering
your hair with a towel while tanning, you can avoid the hair-lightening
process.
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Are their guidelines to follow when
tanning?
Yes, the
following precautionary measures should be carefully observed:
-
A tan should
always be obtained gradually and in incremental doses. Never
tan more than once a day, as you would only be overexposing,
causing potential damage to your skin
-
Because some medications can heighten one's sensitivity to UV
light, you should always consult your physician before tanning
if you are taking medication. Photosensitivity
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If you have any type of skin irritation or abnormality, consult
your doctor before tanning.
-
Do not apply any type of cosmetics or perfume before tanning,
as they can act as a photo sensitizer.
-
Keep your eyes closed while tanning and ALWAYS wear protective
eyewear. Ultraviolet light penetrates the eyelids and the intense light can be harmful
to your eyes.
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EXPOSURE PRECAUTIONS
Sunburn
is the body's warning that the skin has been overexposed to
UV light. Do not ignore this warning. If one continues to expose
sunburned skin to UV rays, the skin's natural repair mechanism
becomes overloaded, and this could lead to chronic light-induced
skin damage. Sunburn can also be caused by UVA. Particularly
in cases where the skin is especially photosensitive due to
a certain amount of photo sensitizers in the skin (i.e., medications).
Photosensitivity
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