Tanning Tips

Whether you tan indoors or outdoors, the process is the same. Ultraviolet rays stimulate skin cells to produce melanin, the pigment that makes your skin tan.

There are two types of ultraviolet light rays - UVA and UVB. Different indoor tanning units use different combinations of these two tanning rays. Whatever the combination, your exposure times are regulated by the federal government to minimize your risk of sunburn or overexposure.

Smart tanning involves following the exposure schedule designed for your skin type and avoiding sunburn by tanning gradually.

By controlling the type and amount of UV light you receive in our salon, there's no doubt that this is the best, smartest place to acquire a tan. But there are some precautions you should take to maximize your enjoyment of your tanning visits.

Protect your eyes. Simply closing them or wearing outdoor sunglasses is not adequate protection against possible long-term eye injury. That risk can be eliminated by wearing the FDA compliant eye protection available at Celsius Tannery® .

Protect your lips. They do not produce melanin and they will burn easily unless you protect them with lip balms or sunscreens.  

If you plan to tan in the nude, cover previously unexposed areas for the majority of your tanning time for the first few visits. Gradually increase exposure to these areas until they catch up to the rest of your body.

If you are taking any medications, please let one of our tanning consultants know. Some medications can increase sensitivity to ultraviolet exposure.

Moisturize your skin! The heat and light from tanning sessions can dry your skin. Because moist skin tans best, we recommend using tanning accelerators before each session and moisturizers after and between all visits. 

Remove all makeup before tanning. Most makeup products contain SPF's that are not necessary when tanning in a controlled environment. Some cosmetic products may even contain ingredients that will increase your sensitivity to ultraviolet exposure.

Avoid using loofahs or body poufs in the shower or bath. These products increase your natural rate of exfoliation. Remember, tans don't fade. They naturally exfoliate with your skin every 28 days. Lack of moisture and harsh products such as loofahs will increase this cycle.