Tanning takes place in the skin’s outermost layer called the epidermis where special cells called the melanocytes react to ultraviolet (UV) light.
When exposed to UV-B light (short wave UV), melanocytes produce the pigment known as melanin. The pinkish melanin travels up through the epidermis
and is absorbed by other skin cells. When exposed to UV-A light (longer wave UV), melanin oxidizes or darkens. This is your skin’s way of protecting
itself against too much UV light.
Indoor vs. Outdoor tanning:
Indoor –
Time is money and depending on your skin type, tanning results can be seen in just minutes not hours. You can easily maintain a healthy tan for as little as 60 minutes a month
Tanning indoors with our state-of-the-art equipment allows us to monitor and control UV-A and UV-B exposure so that you can safely tan without burning.
Outdoor –
When tanning outdoors, you are exposed to uncontrolled and often excessive amounts of multi-frequency UV light that can cause “sunburn” and eventually lead to permanent damage. You should always wear appropriate protection when outdoors in the sun.
Climate can also affect your tanning experience. Over cast skies or sweltering temperatures can make tanning uncomfortable, and often impossible to determine if there’s been over-exposure.
Smart Tanning:
Skin Protection –
Any UV exposure will dehydrate the skin which is why you should always moisturize daily, and after each tanning session. Though sunscreen is not needed while tanning in our beds, we always recommend that you properly moisturize to protect your skin from dryness and damage that occurs from UV exposure. Sun Lounge offers quality products to care for your skin, as well as VersaSpa body spa moisturizing treatments. Please see a Sun Lounge employee for after-sun skin care products and treatments.
Eye Protection –
Lip and eye protection are always important. Lips don’t produce melanin, and eyelids are too thin to block UV light. That’s why it’s always important to wear lip balm with sunscreen and protective eye goggles. Eyewear must be certified and approved by the FDA. Sun Lounge offers a selection of protective wear that meets these Federal standards. You can avoid tan lines known as “Racoon Eyes” by gently adjusting your goggles while tanning, however you should never remove them completely.
Medication –
Some medications can cause reactions with UV light. If you are taking any medications, please let your doctor know you are tanning.