your questions
. . . about sunbeds & tanning
How do I register? When you first visit the salon, our Salon Manager will take you through a short assessment to calculate the safe exposure levels for your skin type, and will then register you as a 'Member'. Registration is free of charge.
Can I register or book on-line? Yes! Follow this link to our secure on-line booking diary where you can register, book and manage the minutes in your account!
Is sunbed tanning safe? Yes! Tanned skin is your body's natural protection against sunburn. If you avoid becoming sunburned, the benefits of moderate UV exposure far outweigh any risks.
What is an 'MED'? MED is an acronym of 'Minimal Erythemal Dose', the maximum safe exposure time that will avoid burning, based on your Skin Type, the power and UV output of the sunbed, your current stage of tan development and any other skin damage such as scarring or recent tattoos.
Can I tan in underwear? Yes, but think about tan lines and choose what you wear accordingly! ;o) TIP: It's a good idea to use the same underwear during each session, to avoid 'overlap'.
Is it safe to use a sunbed naked? Of course. . . more than half of our customers do! You should, however, protect any sensitive areas that are not usually subject to UV, and expose that skin very gradually over your first few visits.
To stand-up or lie-down? It's entirely a matter of personal preference! Some people prefer stand-up booths, which feel less enclosed. . . whilst others find lay-down beds more relaxing. The only way to know what works for you is to try them for yourself!
Which is most hygenic? There really is no difference! All of our sunbeds are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after every use.
Who should NOT use a sunbed? You must be at least 18 years of age to use a tanning bed, so please don't be offended if you are asked for proof of age. . . be flattered! :o)
People with Skin Type 1, or those with a familial history of skin cancer should also avoid UV exposure. . . of any kind.
Some medications can cause photosensitivity, so please let the Salon Manager know if you are taking any prescription (or over-the-counter ) medicines.
How often can I tan? A moderate tanning regime of 2 or 3 sessions a week is OK for everyone else, so long as you rest the skin for a minimum of 24 hours (48 hours for skin type 2 ) between sessions. Regardless of your skin type, you should never sunbathe on the same day that you take a sunbed session.
As an aside; European Standards advise not to exceed 60 sessions per annum.
Must I wear eye protection? Absolutely yes. Closing your eyes is not enough, because damaging UV rays can penetrate the thin skin of your eyelids. Strapless goggles, specifically designed to protect you from UV without causing 'Panda Eyes', are provided free of charge and MUST be worn at all times during a session.
What about my lips? Lips do not have the ability to tan, so applying a high SPF lip balm before tanning will protects your lips from both dehydration and sunburn.
How long will a sunbed tan last? The uppermost cells in the outer layer of skin (the epidermis ), are replace every 28 - 30 days. . . when the cells move to the surface and are 'sloughed off'. This means that the tan can last for up to a month after your last session.
more answers
How do I find tanning.wales? The salon is on Neyland Industrial Estate, just behind the Honeyborough Garden Centre, next door to Silverback's Gym.
Is there any car parking? Yes, there is ample FREE parking right there at the Salon!
Is UV exposure healthy? Although precautions do need to be taken, regular, moderate amounts of UV exposure are essential for good health. The increased production of Vitamin D will help reduce the risk of several diseases including; colon, breast and prostate cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis and depression.
What does 0.3 compliant mean? This is the 2009 European safety standard for sunbeds that limits their UV output to 0.3 Watts per square Meter. . . approximately the same intensity as the Mediterranean summer sun at midday.
Can I wear my contact lenses whilst tanning? You can, but the heat of the sunbed can cause eye dryness, so you may wish to remove your lenses to avoid any discomfort.
Is tanning the same as sunbathing? The wavelengths of high-intensity light that your skin is exposed to during a sunbed session are identical to those found in sunlight. Indoor tanning, therefore, represents a viable alternative to natural sunshine for stimulating your production of Vitamin D.
Do people with dark skin need sunscreen? Although dark skin produces more Melanin, it still needs additional protection from the sun. The highest level of protection that melanin alone can provide is equal to an SPF of 13, even in people with the darkest skin tones. . . whilst the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that everyone use at least an SPF 15.
What is a 'tanning enhancer'? A tanning enhancer or tan 'accelerator' is a cream that will maximise the results of your tanning session by giving a deeper tan whilst also nourishing your skin.
Should I use an after-sun lotion? Just like natural sunbathing, tanning can cause the skin to dry, so use of a moisturiser is advised.
Is it safe to tan whilst pregnant? It is recommended not to use any tanning equipment whilst pregnant.
