The Truth About Tanning
How do we tan? |
| Tanning takes place in the skin's outermost layer, the epidermis, with special cells called melanocytes. When exposed to UV-B light (short wave ultraviolet), melanocytes produce the pigment, melanin. The pinkish melanin travels up through the epidermis and is absorbed by other skin cells. When exposed to UV-A light (longer wave), melanin oxidizes or darkens. This is your skin's way of protecting itself against too much UV light. |
Why does a tan fade? |
| Cells in the epidermis are constantly reproducing and pushing older cells upward toward the surface of your skin, where they are sloughed off in about one month. As your skin replaces its cells, the cells laden with melanin are removed. So the tanning process must continue with the new cells. |
Why is indoor tanning better? |
| Speed - It doesn't take all day to get a tan indoors. Depending on your skin type, just a few minutes, not hours. Maintain your tan for as little as 60 minutes a month. |
| Control - Our state-of-the-art equipment allow us to monitor and scientifically control your ultraviolet UV-A and UV-B exposure. We make sure you tan and not burn. |
| Climate - Overcast, rainy, or 109 in the shade, you never have to worry about the weather with our pleasant, climate-controlled environment. Not to mention 'skeeters. |
Do I need to protect my lips and eyes while tanning? |
| Wear lip balms with sunscreen and protective goggles. Eyewear must be certified '21CFR'. We offer a selection of goggles that meet these Federal standards. You can avoid "Raccoon Eyes" by gently adjusting your goggles while you tan, but never remove them completely. |