Tanning FAQ's

Is it safer to tan indoors or outdoors?

They are the same. Whether you tan inside for 20 minutes, or 20 minutes outside under a sun of the same intensity, you will get the same color. But remember, factors like the intensity of the sun is something you cannot control - such as. Indoor tanning also adds an extra degree of safety by controlling the amount of time you're allowed in a bed or booth. But the outdoor sun gives a healthy dose of the much needed Vitamin D - and a little natural sunshine is always good for a little mood booster. Just remember, sun, like so many other things, is only good in moderation.

What is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The SPF number indicates the amount of time you can spend in the sun before you will start to burn. So, if you're wearing an SPF 8, you take that number, multiply by 10, and that's how long you have...80 minutes...before you'll start to turn rosy. However, this formula works under the pretense that the lotion is evenly and thickly applied for the entire duration - so if you're running, swimming, and even laying on a towel - some lotion will come off. Remember: reapply evenly and often.

How long does it take to get a tan?

The best tans are those achieved through short but frequent sessions. You only need 10-15 minutes of sun to start tanning. But to maintain an even, natural and dark tan, you need sun exposure every 1-2 days. To get the best tan, tan for 10-15 minutes, every day to every other day for one week, depending on your skin type.

If I can't tan in the sun, will I be able to tan indoors?

No. Your skin type is predetermined, and the UV rays from the beds are no different than the ones coming from the sun. If you burn easily in the sun, you will burn easily in a bed.

Can tanning harm my internal organs?

No. You may have heard the "microwaved bride" legend, but it is simply not true. UV rays are absorbed the melanin in your skin, and never actually make it past the upper layer of your epidermis - which is about 1/16 of an inch.

Do I have to wear goggles in a tanning bed?

YES. The damage that direct UV rays can do to your eyes is very serious and very real. UV radiation has been linked to corneal and retinal injury, cataracts and blindness. Fortunately, goggles have been designed to be as unnoticeable as possible, so you don't have to worry about raccoon eyes anymore. Always wear your goggles!

Can I tan if I am pregnant?

You shouldn't. There haven't been ant studies showing that tanning while pregnant can harm you, but there haven't been any that prove it is 100% safe either. Your body is in such a delicate hormonal balance right now anyway, why risk it? Wait until after the baby is born.