Commonly Asked Questions on Tanning

1- How do I determine the optimum exposure schedule for any tanning session?

State regulations along with the FDA have stipulated individual optimum exposure schedules that are based on the intensity levels of individual sunlamp and other equipment models.

Any tanning professional would take into consideration and comply with the tanning schedule of that particular equipment, keeping in mind your skin type as well as your tanning history.

2- How does indoor tanning compare with outdoor tanning?

In many ways, indoor tanning is safer and more effective than outdoor tanning. For one thing, with indoor tanning you do not have to contend with worrying about the adverse effects that are caused due to prolonged exposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun.

Indoor tanning is carried out in a controlled environment and because it is independent of outdoor climatic conditions it offers you the additional benefit of getting a magnificent tan all year round.

3- How long will it be before I see any results?

Typically, the changes in skin tone will be evident after the initial few sessions itself. You should be able to see a wonderful base tan after about 8 – 10 successive sessions. After that, you would need to go for just one or two weekly sessions to maintain an envious year-round tan.

Melanocytes are special cells in the skin that produce melanin when they are stimulated by ultraviolet B rays. Tanning is a result of these melanocytes getting oxidized by ultraviolet A rays when they migrate to the surface of the skin.

The amount of melanin varies in different people; those who are fair-haired and fair-skinned typically have a lower level of melanocytes as compared to individuals who are dark skinned and dark-haired. It is this melanocyte level that determines how fast you tan. 

4- Would outdoor lotions and oils cause any problems when used in a tanning bed?

Outdoor products are formulated differently from indoor products and they produce better results when used correctly. If you apply outdoor lotions and oils when using a tanning bed, there is a high chance that they will create a film on the acrylic, which in fact acts as a restricting factor in the tanning process.

It is far better to buy tanning products that are especially formulated for indoor use. They produce better results without any adverse effects. A tanning professional would be able to recommend a product that is best suited to your requirements.

5- Would I still burn outdoors even if I have a solid base tan?

You always run the risk of getting burnt whenever you overexpose yourself; whether it is indoors or out. A solid base tan provides only limited protection against burning and will not protect you 100%.

6- Does difficulty in outdoor tanning imply that it will be just as difficult when using a tanning bed?

Different people tan differently depending on their skin type and the presence or absence of pigments. Those who have adequate pigments will find that they are able to tan easily in no time at all, whether they indulge in outdoor or indoor tanning.

However, those who lack the necessary pigments may find that it almost impossible to acquire a tan outdoors and indoor tanning could achieve mixed results, from taking longer to acquire the desired color to not being able to acquire a tan at all. Studies show that almost 5% of the population find it impossible to acquire a tan.

7- Is there any specific kind of clothing that is necessary for tanning?

Most people don their swimsuits and approach indoor tanning as no different from an adventure on the beach. What’s more, because of the privacy that indoor tanning offers, you have the additional option of tanning in the nude, which is every tanning fan’s dream come true.

No more unsightly white lines caused due to swimwear and other pieces of necessary clothing. If you have tanned before and already have tan lines, remember that the lighter areas of skin will be a bit more sensitive and should have a lesser exposure time than the darker areas.

In the absence of tan lines, the whole body can be evenly exposed to the tanning light in order to acquire an even tan.

8 – Will my hair get lighter in color because of tanning?

If you are a regular sun-worshipper and you notice that your hair color does get lighter with exposure to the sun, then you can expect the same reaction when tanning with a tanning bed.  However, you can prevent this from happening by simply making sure your head is protected with a large towel whenever you are tanning.

9- What are the guidelines for tanning?

Here are some suggestions and guidelines to maximize your tanning benefits and minimize any adverse reaction while tanning:

10- How long is each tanning session?

The FDA has determined the ideal tanning timings for different people based on tanning history, skin type and type of tanning bed that is used. Sessions typically range from about 10 minutes to about 30 minutes.