Posted : 02/01/2003
Breaking Through The Tanning Plateau
Several of my customers have reached their tanning plateaus. How
can I help them break through to the next level of tanning?
Yet, there are some tanners who may feel they aren't getting any darker. How much is sufficient for a tan? How much is too much? There is no solid answer because the perception of a tan is a subjective issue. What appears to one person to be a great tan may not look that dark to another individual. Others may appear to have way too much color.
It is important to remember that the skin has a limited ability to process UV exposure to the melanocytes and alter the pigment to a darker color. Generally, any exposure above that may result in overexposure and possible skin damage. Beware of tanners who, regardless of what you have told them, try to obtain double sessions or sessions within a 24-hour time frame. One of the primary reasons for the 24-hour limit between tanning sessions is to allow the skin sufficient time to repair itself after the exposure and to see if there was any reddening after that exposure.
Photosensitizing medications may play a role here, especially during the beginning of the tanning season, which is high time for the cold and flu season.
There are many lotion products that contain bronzing agents, which may give a darker appearance without additional UV exposure. Sunless tanning equipment also is available to augment additional color. However, it should be noted that sunless products do not offer photoprotection. Many tanners are taking advantage of combination packages with mild UV to promote a base tan followed by sunless sessions.
Whatever method you choose, obtain a tan responsibly and keep it with moderate scheduled exposures!
If you have a question that you would like answered in this forum please contact joe_lsi@bellsouth.net. I look forward to your comments.
