Is tanning safe?

Indoor UV tanning provides the same benefits and risks as outdoor tanning. Both feel good and can improve your appearance; both also call for moderation and proper skin care. Indoor tanning, however, provides a more reliable, controllable exposure of UVA & UVB tanning rays. Each tanning bed or stand-up is regulated by the Federal Drug Administration and rated for maximum exposure time. Whenever you tan keep in mind the Golden Rule of Smart Tanning: Never burn. Sunburn does not turn into tan; it actually keeps your body from tanning while exposing you to increased risk. It’s always better to build up your tan – your body’s natural defense against UV overexposure – slowly, safely and in moderation.
For additional information from the International Smart Tan Network go to www.tanningtruth.org.

How does UV tanning work?

Two types of light rays are emitted by the sun and UV tanning equipment that work together to get you tan.

UVA rays are mainly “browning rays” that turn the melanin in your skin from pink to brown. This reaction is the body’s natural protection from the sun. UV-A rays penetrate a little deeper into the skin than UV-B rays, are less likely to burn you, and take a few hours longer to produce their full result.
UVB are the “activation rays” that stimulate your skin’s melanocyte cells to bring more melanin to the surface. UV-B rays penetrate less deeply, provide a slightly quicker effect, and add a natural glow to skin color.

While top equipment provides higher UV-A percentages, a little UV-B is important in maximizing your tan.

Do I have to wear eye wear?

A tan is created by the UV rays penetrating the upper layers of your skin. The skin of the eyelid is the thinnest in your body. The light passing through will cause irreparable damage with long-term UV exposure.

What are the potential health benefits of tanning?

UV light is the main source of Vitamin D for humans. UV light causes the skin to create pre-vitamin D which in turn makes Vitamin D that is necessary for good health, bone formation, and the absorption of calcium and phosphorous in the body. The presence of Vitamin D in the body can decrease the risks of developing breast and colon cancers. Tanning also provides natural protection from sunburn. Melanin (tanning pigment) helps the skin absorb ultraviolet rays without causing damage to surrounding cells, thereby offering protection from sunburn.

Do I really need to use lotion?

Yes, the use of indoor tanning lotions will provide the three essentials of effective tanning: hydration, nutrition, and oxygenation. Skin must be hydrated to reach and maintain the desired tan. Dry, neglected skin reflects UV light and exfoliates much faster. The natural, vitamin rich products sold at Ultimate Tan are fundamental to the skin's appearance and ability to tan. Vitamins replenish necessary nutrition to skin cells, promoting cell regeneration and oxygenation. Oxygen fuels skin cell functions, thereby accelerating the tanning process. Our trained personnel will recommend the appropriate product for you. Outdoor lotions are prohibited as well as drug store varieties since they are capable of diminishing the rate at which you'll tan and ruin the Acrylics on our tanning beds.

How often can a person tan?

Currently, the FDA guidelines suggest a 48 hour time interval between sessions. Pigment darkening may not be visible for 12-24 hours, therefore, two tanning sessions within a 24 hour period could cause an unintentional burn. It's best to achieve a gradual tan by following the equipment guidelines.