How often should I tan?

It is recommended (even required in some states) that you allow 24 hours between tanning sessions. Although, if you wait too long between sessions your tan will fade.

How can I extend the length of my tan?

Keep your skin healthy! Make sure you moisturize constantly. Moisturizers should be used after each shower when you are tanning regularly. If you feel your skin becoming dry you can apply more moisturizer. There are products that are made specifically for use after tanning that replenish the vitamins and nutrients of your skin. Healthy skin tans faster, darker, and stays tan longer!

Should I use a specially made “Tanning Lotion”?

Absolutely! Specially formulated tanning lotions are inundated with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that keep your skin silky smooth and extremely healthy. It is important to use a professional tanning lotion because it replenishes the health of the skin, which is needed for a proper, long lasting, tan.

Can I use outdoor lotion in the tanning bed?

Simple answer, NO. Outdoor tanning lotions are made for outdoors. They can leave a film on you and the tanning bed that can limit the effectiveness of the tanning beds.

What is the best lotion to use?

The answer to this question depends on your skin type. There are multiple variables that need to be considered when choosing your tanning lotion. If you have questions about which item is best for your skin type, you can contact the salon or send us an email and we can do our best to help you make the best decision.

Is cheap “drugstore” lotion the same as the tanning lotions we carry?

NO. The lotions we carry in the salon are top of the line, exclusive, tanning lotions. They are made specifically for indoor tanning. Drugstore products do not inhibit the same ingredients as the ones we carry. In fact, many drugstore tanning lotions even contain alcohol which can damage your skin and minimize the effects of indoor tanning.

Can I buy my own tanning lotion online to bring with me?

We always say “buyer beware” when this question arises. Unless you are confident the product is coming from a reputable supplier and is not a counterfeit, you should avoid purchasing lotions online. There have been many instances where tanning lotion bought online has been harmful to skin.

What is a bronzer and why is it beneficial in tanning lotion?

Using a lotion that contains a bronzer is a way to get better results from your tanning session. Not only do you get better results, but your tan will last longer.

What are the 3 main types of bronzers?

1.   DHA Bronzers – This type of bronzer does not need any light to produce a tan. Also known as “Self -Tanners”.

2.  Cosmetic Bronzers – Cosmetics bronzers give you an immediate result that allows you to achieve a dark tan right after tanning.

3.  Low-Maintenance Bronzers – LM Bronzers reduce staining and streaking. The results from these bronzers are not immediate but they will help the length and quality of your tan.

How long does it take to get a tan?

Most tanners will need 3-5 sessions to build their base tan level. If you wish to have an instant tanning outcome you should consider spray tanning.

How long can my first tanning session be?

Your first session length depends on your skin tone and skin type. When you arrive to the salon for your tanning session, we will advise you on the length of your first tan based on these two factors.

What should I wear for indoor tanning sessions?

That is up to you! You can wear a bathing suit, underwear, or you can be nude. When tanning nude, we always recommend you consider the exposure to sensitive areas that typically are not exposed to light. Take into consideration that gradual exposure to light for sensitive areas is important.

Do I have to wear eye protection?

Yes! Eye protection is required by law. Your eyelids are not made to sustain the level of light that the beds offer. Don’t worry, we provide eye protection for everyone in the salon, and we also have some available for individual purchase.

Can I tan more than once a day?

NO. If you wish to achieve an “instant” tan, we recommend you consider a spray tan. The FDA prohibits tanning more than once every 15 hours (we recommend a 24-hour minimum).

What precautions should I take if I am new to indoor tanning?

1.   Don’t rush your tan. A tan should be gradually increased over time.

2.  Your exposure time in the beds should slowly be increased 1-2 minutes at a time.

3.   Consult with your doctor if you are taking any medication prior to participating in indoor tanning.

4. Some medication is known to cause a sensitivity to light that can lead to overexposure.

5.   Always wear protective eyewear!

When should I NOT tan?

1.    If you are taking a medication that causes light sensitivity. (Discuss this with your doctor prior to tanning indoors)

2.   If you are pregnant, you should avoid tanning due to the high levels of heat. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before participating in any type of sunless tanning.

How long will my tan last?

On average, your tan should last between 5 and 7 days. The length of your tan also depends on your skin type. Proper skincare will help prolong the length of your tan.

Should I shower after my tan?

When you tan, just because you left the bed doesn’t mean that the process of tanning has ended. It is recommended you wait at least 2 hours after tanning to shower.

Why am I not getting any darker? What is a tanning plateau?

Over time you skin will become thicker the more you tan. When your skin is thicker it makes it harder for the UV light to penetrate the upper layer of your skin. Some tanners reach a point where it seems like they are not getting, this is called the tanning plateau. The tanning plateau can be overcome with additional moisturizer and using a range of tanning equipment that will provide UVB and UVA to help stimulate different levels within the skin.

Why don’t my legs and face tan as well as the rest of my body?

The skin on your legs and face is usually thicker than the rest of your body. When you shave your legs and face you are mechanically exfoliating the upper layer of the skin cells and unintentionally removing part of your tan (It’s ok, that’s why you can come back). We do carry products in the salon to help these areas tan better.

Will tanning effect my tattoo?

Yes, you should always wear a strong UV Sunblock. Tanning can lead to colors fading in your tattoo. We offer a tattoo protector that can be used to preserve the color and quality of your tattoo.

Can a sunburn fade into a tan?

It has been falsely assumed that your sunburn will fade into a tan. Sunburn is an injury to the top layer of your skin and is associated with skin damage.

What are pressure points and how do I get rid of them?

Pressure points are the areas that receive the most pressure while lying in a reclined position in a tanning bed. In these areas your blood flow can become constricted making them less likely to tan as quickly as other parts of the body. They are typically found on the shoulder blades, tailbone, and elbow area. Lifting yourself up and off the tanning bed can help limit the constriction of oxygen allowing the UV light to penetrate these areas more efficiently. After a few sessions you should notice them disappearing.

 Should I use lip balm?

Yes. Your lips do not produce melanin which leaves them susceptible to burning in the tanning bed. We recommend you use a lip balm that also has SPF along with a moisturizer since the UV light can dry your lips out.