I'VE NEVER
TANNED BEFORE - WHAT IS IT LIKE?
The knowledgeable staff at Neon Beach will determine your exposure time based on your skin
type and recommended a tanning schedule.
Your first session is usually between 8-12 minutes
in length.
return to top
HOW LONG IS ONE SESSION?
The first time in a sun tan bed can be anywhere from 8-12 minutes, depending on your skin type.
Many salons have different equipment and lamps -
therefore you should follow the recommended
exposure time and schedule made by our Neon Beach
Tanning consultant.
return to top
HOW LONG BEFORE YOU START SEEING RESULTS?
Most people start seeing results by the second or third visit. Note: a tan doesn't happen overnight -
you need to build a base tan. And remember to tan smart - never burn.
return to top
HOW OFTEN IS A PERSON ALLOWED TO TAN?*
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
A 48-hour time period should pass between tanning sessions. Pigmentation and/or over-exposure may
not be fully visible for 12-24 hours after your original session. Two tanning sessions within this
24-hour period could result in an unintentional burn.
return to top
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO DEVELOP A BASE TAN? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Moderate exposure to UVB rays help develop a natural barrier in the skin to protect the body from
excessive UV light. UVB rays stimulate the production of melanin, which absorbs and scatters
radiation to thicken the epidermis (the top skin layer), thereby limiting the amount of UV light.
If this photo-protection (base tan) is not developed or a sunscreen is not used, sunburn can occur
and the DNA of the skin cells may become damaged.
return to top
CAN TANNING CAUSE WRINKLES? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Excessive exposure can destroy the resilient fibers of the lower skin layer, thereby causing the
top skin layer to sag. Thus, elastosis or wrinkling appears. UVA rays, if not blocked by pigmentation
and skin thickening in the outer skin layer, can penetrate to the dermis and destroy skin elasticity.
return to top
WHY DOES A TAN DISAPPEAR? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
A tan disappears because the top layer of your skin replaces all of its cells every 28-30 days. Keeping
your skin moisturized, will prolong a tan, however a tan can be maintained only by repeated exposure
to UV light.
return to top
I AM PREGNANT - CAN I TAN INDOORS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
There is no current scientific and/or biological reason why a pregnant woman cannot tan indoors or
outdoors. In fact, some researchers believe the production of vitamin D caused by exposure to UVB
may be beneficial to both the mother and fetus. However, there is some concern that the heat build-up
that occurs when tanning indoors or outdoors may adversely affect some pregnant women, just as a sauna
or jacuzzi might. It is recommended that pregnant women consult their physician before tanning indoors
or outdoors.
return to top
IF A PERSON CANNOT TAN IN THE SUN, WILL HE/SHE TAN INDOORS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Normally, a person tans indoors only as well as he/she is able to tan outdoors. Yet, those fair-skinned
people who generally cannot tolerate the uncontrolled rays of the sun often achieve some color when
tanning indoors. This can be attributed to a different spectral output as well as carefully timed
tanning sessions in a controlled tanning environment. Skin type, heredity, and individual photosensitivity
all determine who will have success tanning indoors.
return to top
IS IT HARMFUL TO WEAR CONTACT LENSES WHEN TANNING INDOORS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
When the eyes are kept closed and proper protective eyewear worn, UV light is blocked from penetrating
the eye or lens. However, the heat generated by indoor tanning equipment could cause the eye to dry a
bit, thereby making the lens uncomfortable. Just as one should moisturize the skin after tanning, you
may also use eye drops recommended by your optometrist to remedy dryness.
return to top
WHEN IS THE SUN THE STRONGEST? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
The suns rays are the strongest between the hours of 10:00 am and 2:00 p.m. UVB rays (the UV light
most responsible for burning) are more intense in summer months. Therefore, it is especially important
to apply sunscreen during this time to minimize your risk of sunburn.
return to top
HOW DOES THE DEPLETION OF THE OZONE LAYER AFFECT US? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
A very thin level of ozone surrounds the earth and serves as a filter against UV rays. The use of
chlorofluorocarbons has influenced the depletion of the ozone layer, allowing increased amounts of
shorter wavelengths of UV light to reach the earth's surface. Even though indoor tanning can help
gradually build pigmentation (the body's own way of avoiding excessive exposure to UV light), with
a depleting ozone layer, there are now more chances to over-expose your skin. Precautions should be
taken to avoid the risk of sunburn at all times.
return to top
WHY DO SOME DERMATOLOGISTS WARN PEOPLE AGAINST SUN EXPOSURE? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
While some dermatologists may advocate total avoidance of all sun exposure, the media seems to quote
only those who do. Many dermatologists and others from the medical community have acknowledged the
need for moderate sun exposure, while advocating the use of sunscreens.
return to top
CAN TANNING INDOORS CAUSE CANCER? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Excessive exposure to any UV light source may lead to skin damage, which may cause skin cancer.
While there has been no comprehensive study on the causes of skin cancer, three high risk groups
have been identified: 1) severe sunburns at a young age 2) history of skin cancer in the family and 3)
very fair skin, red hair, freckles or moles. If you fall into one or more of these groups, any UV
light exposure should be treated with even greater caution. The fact is, most forms of skin cancer
are treatable. Even melanoma, which accounts for only 5% of all skin cancer, is 90% treatable if
caught in its early stages. Early diagnosis is essential. It is recommended that all UV exposure
be moderate.
return to top
MAY PEOPLE WHO HAVE HAD SKIN CANCER TAN INDOORS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
It is strongly recommended that those who have suffered skin cancer avoid tanning either indoors
or outdoors. Such people may be genetically predisposed to contract skin cancer or be unusually
susceptible to it. Any exposure may trigger another outbreak.
return to top
WHAT IS A "PHOTOSENSITIZING AGENT"? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Photosensitivity is defined as a chemically induced change in the skin that makes an individual
unusually sensitive to light. Diseases, allergies, cosmetics or medications may cause photosensitivity.
Medications such as psoralen, diuretics, birth control pills, tranquilizers, antibiotics and high blood
pressure medicine may also affect one's photosensitivity. Certain substances such as citrus fruits, celery,
cosmetics and soaps can also increase photosensitivity. Harsh disinfectants, some lotions and sunscreens
may also cause sensitizing reactions. If you are unsure if your medication is a photosensitizing agent,
consult your pharmacist.
return to top
CAN I TAN ALL YEAR LONG WITHOUT HARMING MY SKIN? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Moderation is key. You may tan throughout the year if you are taking care not to overexpose your
skin at any time. You should always be aware of the dangers of overexposure, as it may lead to
chronic skin damage. Take precautions not to indoor and outdoor tan on the same day, wear sunscreen
outside and always allow a 24-hour time period to lapse between tanning sessions.
return to top
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO TAN SMART?
To tan smart is to build up your tan in a controlled and gradual manner. This gives your body a
natural tan without burning, giving pigment a chance to develop and increasing your protection to
UV light. It may take longer but you reduce the risk of over exposure and skin damage. Gradual exposure
utilizing the advice of a Neon Beach Tanning Consultant will not only build a better tan but will prevent
the negative aspects of over exposure.
return to top
WHY DO SOME PEOPLE ITCH AFTER TANNING INDOORS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Itching and/or rashes may be linked to several unrelated causes. Some people are naturally photosensitive
to UV exposure while others are susceptible to heat rashes, a cause totally unrelated to UV light.
Certain chemicals or ingredients found in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, and even the acrylic cleaner
might cause itching. Customers should be advised to tan with the skin as clean as possible. If
discontinued use of a suspected product does not inhibit the rash, discontinue any exposure to
UV light and consult your physician. Heat rash, or tanner's itch, may also indicate that the
light and heat generated by tanning bulbs or the sun have dried your skin, especially in
previously unexposed areas. Discontinue tanning for a few days, then slowly build your
time allowing melanin production to increase. For temporary relief try an unscented emollient
cream. If symptoms persist, discontinue tanning and consult your doctor.
return to top
WHAT CAUSES WHITE SPOTS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
There are several reasons why white spots become noticeable on the body once the tanning process
begins: · Patches of skin, which do not tan, could be the result of genetic determination.
· White spots could also appear due to the presence of a fungus, which lives on the skin's
surface. While the fungus is harmless, it does absorb UV light, which would normally penetrate the
skin. This fungus did not appear as a result of tanning; it merely becomes noticeable once tanning
occurs. It can be remedied though the use of prescription drugs or some other topical lotions. ·
White patches of skin, which are often prominent on the shoulder blades and just above the buttocks,
can be caused by the pressure from the body as it reclines on a hard tanning bed surface. This pressure
inhibits the flow of blood through that area of skin. Since blood carries oxygen, which is essential to
the tanning process, this area does not tan. Periodic body shifting during tanning will make these
patches disappear. · Certain medications can react unfavorably with exposure to UV light. For
example, birth control pills can cause blotches and uneven pigmentation of the skin.
return to top
MUST PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR BE WORN WHILE TANNING INDOORS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Although they may seem like a nuisance, the goggles that you wear while tanning are very important.
Your eyelids alone offer almost no protection against UV light, which can damage the cornea and
retina and lead to cataracts. Not using proper eye protection may also result in short term effects
such as tired, itchy eyes, headaches and loss of night vision. No one should ever be in a tanning
bed without eye protection. Buy your own pair to avoid the risk of infections like pink-eye which
are easily transmitted. Don't take chances with your eyes.
return to top
SHOULD I WEAR SUNGLASSES WHEN I'M OUTDOORS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Yes. More and more scientific evidence indicates that exposure to UVB rays can cause damage to your
eyes. Generally, UVB rays can cause short-term injury, such as burning. Snow blindness is an example
of immediate eye damage due to sunlight reflecting off snow, particularly at high altitudes. Prolonged
unprotected exposure to the sun is cumulative and can result in cataracts, a clouding of the lens
of the eye. Therefore, it is recommended you should wear sunglasses treated with UV resistant
coating when outdoors.
return to top
IS IT POSSIBLE TO CONTRACT A SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE FROM INDOOR
TANNING EQUIPMENT? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Contracting a sexually transmitted disease requires the exchange of bodily fluids from one person to
another. This exchange does not take place by using indoor tanning equipment. However, this does not
mean that other infectious conditions cannot be passed on by the use of unsanitary equipment and
protective eyewear. At Neon Beach, tanning equipment is properly sanitized after each use and we
recommend that you do not share your eyewear with others.
return to top
CAN INDOOR TANNING CURE ACNE? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Phototherapy (or use of UV light) has been effective in easing the skin problems common to this
condition. However, there are also many drugs, including tetracycline and Retin-A, widely used
for the treatment of acne that can render the skin photosensitive. Therefore, one should avoid
UV exposure when medicated. Treatment of acne should be administered by a qualified physician.
return to top
DOES TANNING HELP TREAT DEPRESSION OR SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
(SAD)? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
There exists a growing body of scientific evidence, which indicates that some people actually
require more light exposure in order to function properly. Exposure to bright light, such as that
emitted by the mid-day summer sun, causes the brain to suppress the release of the hormone
melatonin. Melatonin acts as a depressant in the body if generated during the daytime. Thus,
when affected people are exposed to longer hours of bright light, they feel happier, euphoric
and more able to enjoy life. Bright light sources emitting only visible light are now frequently
used to successfully treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Sub-syndromal Seasonal Affective
Disorder (SSAD).
return to top
DOES INDOOR TANNING EQUIPMENT AID IN THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOPOROSIS? *
*as taken from the Wolff System Technology Corporation's Frequently Asked Questions Booklet
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by frequent bending and/or breaking of the bones due to a
lack of sufficient calcium. Adequate calcium intake is essential for the development of strong bones
and teeth. It is widely recognized that the body in the intestine does not absorb calcium unless
vitamin D3 is present. Vitamin D3 is often referred to as the "sunshine" vitamin because
it is produced in the skin upon exposure to UVB rays. Some studies show that indoor tanning lamps
(which emit a certain amount of UVB) may initiate the production of vitamin D3 which in turn aids
in calcium absorption.
return to top
WHICH IS SAFER, TANNING INDOORS OR IN THE SUN? WHY?
Indoor tanning is a controlled environment, which allows you to slowly build a gradual tan, to
develop pigmentation and increase your natural SPF - thus providing a safer environment. The extern
al
factors of tanning in the sun, such as time of year and day, altitude, cloud coverage, pollutants,
reflective surfaces, etc. are harder to control or predict - which increases your risk of overexposure.
return to top
WHAT IS IN TANNING CREAMS THAT ACCELERATES A TAN AND ARE THEY SAFE TO USE?
The main active ingredient in tanning lotions is Tyrosine. Tyrosine is essentially amino acids from
proteins that are converted through several metabolic steps to produce melanin. Melanin is the pigment
responsible for causing your skin to darken and provides a natural SPF factor of up to 10. Tyrosine
is added to tanning accelerator products to supplement the body's normal level of tyrosine at the
skins cell level thereby speeding the tanning process. Indoor tanning lotions also helps counter
the drying effects of tanning, prepare the skin to tan more efficiently, and makes a tan last longer.
return to top
WHY DO PEOPLE USE LOTIONS?
Many people use indoor tanning products to maximize their tanning experience. The following are reasons
why consumers enjoy using tanning lotions:
- They supply the skin with essential nutrients necessary for a tan and help moisturize the skin
to keep it looking young and healthy.
- Moist skin tans more quickly and efficiently than dry skin, resulting in a better tan in fewer
visits.
- Indoor tanning products help counteract the drying effects of heat and light associated with
tanning (moisturized skin is healthier).
- Active ingredients supplement the skin's cells with the same proteins that enhance the tanning
process naturally.
- Specially formulated indoor tanning lotions help your tan last by retaining ultraviolet
induced melanin longer.
- The latest lotion technology includes antioxidants that help prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
