Basic Tanning Tips

Basic Tanning Tips

• UVB irradiance is greatest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. UVA continues throughout the day and can exceed that of UVB by tenfold to one-thousand-fold. In the northern hemisphere, UVB is most intense in summer months, but UVA is more consistent throughout the year.
• SPF stands for sun protection factor (maybe it should stand for sunburn protection factor) and is the standard means of expressing a sunscreen’s effectiveness in protecting skin. It represents a ratio of the minimal erythemal dose (MED) to the MED on unprotected skin. The SPF value is the length of time a person can be exposed to UV without burning when a sunscreen is applied compared to when it is not. For example, an SPF 15 means one can be exposed 15 times longer when using an SPF 15 sunscreen than without. The skin alone has an SPF 1.
• Sunscreen chemical agents are divided into three groups: those that absorb UVA, those that primarily absorb UVB, and those that absorb both wavelengths. It is preferable to select broadband or full-spectrum sunscreens since they protect against both UVA and UVB penetration. They also will help prevent the cumulative damage of photoaging (wrinkling) and can minimize photosensitivity reactions, both of which can be caused by UVA.
• Sunblocks are opaque formulations that absorb, reflect and scatter up to 99 percent of UV and visible light. They often are used on localized, sunsensitive areas such as the nose, lips, ears and shoulders. Because they are often messy and can stain clothing, sunblocks may not be practical for application over large areas. Zinc oxide is an example of a sunblock.
• Sunscreens absorb specific wavelengths and are classified as drugs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Sunscreens are considered more cosmetically refined due to their pleasing consistency. They typically are used for effective photoprotection.

Remind clients that the sun is the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Recommend that they use a broadband sunscreen while exposed over a prolonged period of time or in sunintensive regions. Individuals always should be mindful of the dangers of overexposure since it may lead to skin damage.

Finally, know your clients. If they mention they are going on vacation or plan to spend a lot of time at the beach, remind them to establish a base tan at your professional facility.

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