A: Sunlight is absolutely essential to all life on earth, and there are various biological reasons why exposure to light is desirable. In addition, many people believe they look better with a tan; therefore, having a tan may provide a psychological uplift for some.
Normally, a person tans indoors only as well as he or she is able to tan outdoors. Yet, those fair-skinned people who generally cannot tolerate the uncontrollable rays of the sun often achieve some color when tanning indoors. This can be attributed to a different spectral output as well as carefully timed tanning sessions in a controlled tanning environment. Skin type, heredity and individual photosensitivities determine who will have success tanning indoors.
All exposure--whether indoors or outdoors--should be gradual and moderate. For the commercial tanning salon operator, it is necessary that each customer's skin type be determined and that the corresponding recommended exposure schedule be followed strictly. More information on the risks and benefits of UV exposure can be obtained from industry publications, seminars, trade associations and suppliers of indoor tanning equipment.
As for how often to tan, currently, the Food and Drug Administration guidelines suggest that a 48-hour time interval should pass between tanning sessions. Pigmentation and/or erythema (sunburn) may not be fully visible for between 12 to 24 hours. Therefore, two tanning sessions within a 24-hour period could cause an unintentional burn. In general, maximum pigmentation can be built up gradually, following the exposure schedule, in eight to 10 tanning sessions.
Should one of your indoor tanners experience an adverse reaction after tanning, advise he or she to terminate all exposure until the condition disappears. Only then should that person begin tanning again. If the condition does not disappear within a reasonable amount of time, instruct the tanner to consult a physician.
Each indoor tanner must bear responsibility for his or her own tanning priorities. It is the responsibility of those in the retail business to provide enough information to customers to enable them to make informed decisions. When in doubt, the equipment operator should exercise prudence, caution and good judgment when giving advice on tanning practices.
If you have a question that you would like answered, please email sales@wolffsys.com or visit www.wolffsystem.com.
