How Does Your Skin Tan?

The tanning process is really quite simple, and works the same whether you tan indoors or outdoors.Tanning takes place in the skin’s outermost layer, the epidermis. About five percent of the cells in your epidermis are special cells called melanocytes. When exposed to ultraviolet B light (short wave ultraviolet), melanocytes produce melanin—the pigment which is ultimately responsible for your tan. The pinkish melanin travels up through the epidermis and is absorbed by other skin cells. When exposed to ultraviolet A light (longer wave), the melanin oxidizes or darkens. This darkening is your skin’s way of protecting itself against too much UV light.

What Are the Benefits of Indoor Tanning?

Although getting a tan is certainly the main benefit of tanning, there are other benefits of using a tanning bed you may not have thought of. For one, you are able to control your exposure to UV light. No one wants to get a sunburn and tanning beds help (or eliminate) your chances of getting one. Another benefit is that Scientific research has shown that exposure to UV rays actually helps the body create a natural supply of Vitamin D. Since there are so many diseases that are linked directly to Vitamin D deficiencies, such as both osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, using a tanning bed to increase these vitamin levels is a huge benefit. In addition to strengthening bone, Vitamin D is also essential for the prevention of many forms of cancer including prostate, colon, and breast.Speed: It doesn't take all day to get a tan indoors. Depending on your skin type, it may just take a few minutes, not hours.Control: Our state-of-the-art equipment allows us to monitor and scientifically control your ultraviolet UV-A and UV-B exposure. We make sure you tan and not burn.Climate: Overcast, rainy, or 109 degrees in the shade, you never have to worry about the weather with your pleasant, climate-controlled environment.

Why is the Protection of Your Lips and Eyes Important When Tanning?

Lips don't produce melanin and eyelids are too thin to block UV. That's why it's important to wear lip balm with sunscreen.It’s also important to wear protective eye goggles. Eyewear must be certified and approved by the FDA. We offer a selection of goggles that meet these Federal standards. You can avoid "raccoon eyes" by gently adjusting your goggles while you tan, but never remove them completely. When you tan outdoors, you are exposed to uncontrolled and often excessive amounts of multi-frequency UV that can cause sunburn and permanent damage.

If I am on Any Medications, Can I Still Tan?

Some medications can cause reactions with UV light. If you are taking any medications, please let your doctor know you are tanning. For more information, visit www.tanningtruth.com or www.theita.com