Looking Fit 08/2002: Wolff Words

Q: Why do some people itch after tanning indoors?

A: Itching and/or rashes may be linked to several unrelated causes, so it is important to obtain a tanning history on each and every customer. Some people are naturally photosensitive upon exposure to ultraviolet light; others are susceptible to heat rashes--a cause totally unrelated to UV light. The itch simply can be caused by dry skin, in which case a lotion containing a moisturizer may alleviate symptoms.

Certain chemicals or ingredients found in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos and acrylic cleaners also may cause itching. Rashes caused by these products generally occur in localized areas where the products were applied. Advise your customers to tan when their skin is as clean as possible. If discontinued use of a suspected product does not inhibit the rash, a person should discontinue any exposure to UV light until the condition subsides or they see a physician.

Q: What causes white spots?

A: There are several reasons why white spots become noticeable on the body once the tanning process begins.

Patches of skin that do not tan could be the result of genetic determination. The melanocytes in that certain area may simply not be efficient at producing melanin.

White patches of skin, which are often prominent on the shoulder blades and just above the buttocks, can be caused by the pressure from the body as it reclines on a hard surface. This pressure inhibits the flow of blood through that area of the skin. Since blood carries oxygen, which is essential to the tanning process, this area does not tan. Periodic body shifting during tanning will make these white patches disappear.

Certain medications also can react unfavorably with exposure to UV light. For example, birth control pills may cause blotches and uneven pigmentation of the skin.

White spots also could appear due to the presence of a fungus that lives on the skin's surface. While the fungus is harmless, it does absorb UV light that normally would penetrate the skin. This fungus did not appear as a result of tanning; it merely becomes noticeable once tanning occurs. It can be remedied through the use of prescription drugs or some other topical lotions. Instruct your customers to see their physicians if they have concerns.

If you have a question that you would like answered, please email sales@wolffsys.com or visit www.wolffsystem.com.