The Industry Image

The Industry Image

For years, the media has cast a predominantly negative image on the indoor tanning industry. Sometimes it's hard to believe the articles and the extent of misinformation and statistics in newspapers and magazines regarding indoor tanning.

These articles may be representative of a view taken by some in the dermatological/medical community, which has been ... "Stay away from UV exposure." Statements such as, "avoid exposure from the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m." could be contoured to, "Be aware of the increased intensity of the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and avoid overexposure." For the millions of people who enjoy the look of a tan, indoor tanning provides a controlled, practical approach to achieving photoprotection prior to natural sun exposure.

A recent survey by Wolff System Technology indicates that more than 90 percent of the respondents:

• Tan indoors because it makes them feel healthier.
• Tan indoors because of the privacy.
• Feel that indoor tanning makes them feel rested.
• Feel that indoor tanning allows them to take a break from their life.
• Tan indoors because of the warmth.

In addition, tanners claim that they feel fit, their self-esteem is higher and they are more confident about their looks with a cosmetic tan. A photoprotective tan obtained in moderation isn't "tacky." It is the result of a prudent, common-sense approach by those who consider the pros and cons of tanning, and then choose the indoor tanning option under moderation and control.

But remember--indoor tanning beds are considered medical devices by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA forbids health claims regarding the relative safety of these devices. However, there are still comments coming from our industry suggesting that indoor tanning is "safe" or "safer than the sun." The Federal Trade Commission is charged with monitoring claims such as these.

What else can be done to contour the industry's image? Certainly education plays a key role. If all salons, distributors and manufacturers would take and pass accredited industry training, all the hype, conjecture and misinformation that may have come from our industry would be drastically altered for the better.

Admittedly, indoor tanning is not for everyone. But for those who choose to obtain a photoprotective base tan in a controlled environment vs. the uncontrolled aspects of natural sunlight, indoor tanning is the practical solution.

If there are specific topics that you would like to see reviewed or replies regarding the current one, e-mail jschuster@wolffsys.com. I look forward to your comments.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
Joe Schuster