Understanding Acrylics

The subject of acrylics isn’t a glamorous one; however, salon operators need to monitor their acrylics to ensure the best transmission of UV. In addition to using quality equipment and proper lamps, salon operators need to pay special attention to the state of a unit’s acrylics since it can affect tanning performance.

Defining Acrylics

Tanning bed acrylic is a petroleum-based plastic blended specifically so ultraviolet light can be transmitted through the shield. Because this type of acrylic is a poor conductor of heat, it is a comfortable material for the tanner to rest on.

But the real issue here isn’t how acrylic is made or what it’s made of—the real problem seems to be remembering that you have acrylic at all. In fact, many believe that acrylic is probably the most used—and most-often overlooked component of the tanning bed.

Salon operators mistakenly assume that all acrylics are the same. They should be looking for the highest-quality shield, which ultimately will be the least expensive in the long run because it will last longer. The average acrylic sheet can cost a few hundred dollars or more, but don’t always shop price because you get what you pay for. Since acrylic is the part of the bed that may be the most physically used, salons should not cut corners.

When purchasing acrylics, look for a company that offers some type of guarantee. Remember, if a company is not willing to give you a warranty, what does that say about its product?

Now that you have the acrylic, you need to keep it clean for a variety of reasons. The acrylic will degrade faster if a salon owner is not cleaning it properly. In addition to disinfecting the acrylics after each and every tanning session with an EPA-registered and state-approved cleaner, the acrylics— top and bottom—should be taken out at least once a month and thoroughly cleaned. The consensus is to clean every nook and cranny, including the lamps. And everyone agrees on the importance of NOT using products that contain any alcohol or ammonia.

Acrylic that is properly cared for will enhance your ability to tan your customer. Not only should an approved cleaner be used, but salon owners also should use lint-free cotton cloths to prevent scratching as well as help absorb and clean. Scratches on acrylic can be a problem; however, they can be prevented. Customers should be instructed to remove jewelry before they lie down on the bed to avoid acrylic damage. Additionally, remind your customers to use indoor tanning products during their tanning sessions. Once you get that first nick or scratch it will continue to get bigger, just like a crack in a car windshield.

Again, daily cleaning and a thorough monthly cleaning with the appropriate cleansers will go a long way in preserving acrylic shields. However, if your acrylic shield cracks, replace it immediately.

One of the biggest misconceptions about acrylics is that they last forever. There are a number of factors that determine when it is time to replace your shields. The type of lotions and moisturizers customers use contribute to the life of the acrylic. The size and weight of clients also needs to be considered. To help a salon owner determine when to change the acrylics some manufacturers recommend using a UV meter to monitor a bed’s transmittance levels. However, the best advice is to talk to your bed manufacturer or acrylic supplier. Ask them for their recommendation for determining how and when to change acrylic shields.

Have as much information about your tanning bed as you can before you make a phone call. For example, make available the brand name; the make; the model; even the smallest details like where it was made or the color of the handles will help the manufacturer or supplier answer any question you may have— from what is the right shield for the bed to how to determine when to change acrylics and every question in between. 

Acrylic Guidelines

• DO NOT allow your customers to clean the beds themselves.
• DO disinfect the acrylic shield after each session. This is required by both the EPA and state regulations.
• DO use a disinfectant that is registered with the EPA and the state where the salon is located.
• DO NOT put anything on the acrylic that has an alcohol or ammonia base as it will break down the acrylic.
• DO take the acrylics off the bed and thoroughly clean the shields and the other bed components at least once a month. This will help maintain the longevity of your equipment.
• DO NOT allow your customers to use oils of any kind or lotions that are specifically made for outdoor use because these products will break down the acrylic.
• DO clean the acrylic on the top of the bed on a regular basis because it tends to accumulate more dust buildup than the bottom shield.
• DO use a cotton cloth or towel when cleaning the acrylic.
• They are less abrasive than paper towels.
• DO polish the acrylic shield regularly to extend the life of the shield.
• DO ask your customers to remove their jewelry while tanning to help keep the shield from being scratched.