Frequently Asked Questions
About tanning and indoor tanning.
Are tanning beds safe?
The controlled environment and ability to time your UV exposure down to the minute makes burning less likely with a tanning bed than outdoor sun exposure.
All sun-beds and tanning booths are regulated by the FDA as Class II Medical devices. Indoor tanning is also monitored by a trained tanning professional, who will over-see your tanning progress and make suggestions accordingly. It is highly recommended that you use lotions designed for indoor tanning to help protect the health of your skin.
Also, there are many benefits to the UV exposure. (See right)
Why tan indoors?
1. Control of UV exposure. By controlling UV exposure when tanning indoors, you know what to expect. Today's tanning equipment is designed to give you measured amounts of UVA and UVB rays. When used properly, you can develop a tan without burning. When tanning outdoors, UV levels fluctuate depending on many variables including: Location, time of day, season, closeness to the equator and weather conditions. Outdoor tanning = uncertain UV Exposure.
2. Forecast Sunny.Have you noticed that on your day off it tends to be Cloudy, Cool or Rainy? You won't have that problem in a salon.
3. Speed. Face it: We don't have all day to lay in the sun! Indoor tanning sessions are usually 20 minutes or less.
4. Helpful Advice. The salon staff will advise you on how to build and maintain your tan and reduce your risk of breaking RULE #1 (Don't ever Sunburn).
What are tanning "levels"?
Levels differentiate between the types of beds.
Lower levels: Lower level beds tend to be beds with fewer bulbs. These beds have higher UVB to UVA percentage than higher level beds. UVB rays have shorter wavelength and produce short-lasting color.
Higher levels: With our higher level beds you see a deeper, richer tan faster, and obtain a better tan with fewer sessions. These beds have higher UVA to UVB percentage than lower level beds do. UVA rays are a longer wavelength and penetrate the skin deeper, to give a long-lasting bronze color.
Time
How long does it take to develop a tan?
This depends on your skin type, the lotion you use and your current skin color. In general, the average person can develop a base tan in 10-15 sessions in our 15 minute beds. On your first visit we will determine a schedule for you to follow, usually starting off with just a few minutes your first session and gradually working up to a full 15 minute session. It is very important not to overexpose your skin to the sun! Plan on 30 to 45 days to build a tan.
How often should I tan?
We recommend you follow an every other day tanning schedule when building your base tan. After you have developed your base, you can reduce your schedule to once or twice a week depending on the tan you desire.
Clothing, lotions, goggles
What do I wear when tanning?
What ever you want! Once you enter your private tanning room it is your choice. Some people wear their under garments or swim suits. Many people prefer to wear nothing.
Do tanning accelerators / intensifiers really work?
Yes! Tanning lotions help you tan faster, keep your skin moisturized and hydrated, and help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By supplying your skin with needed vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, tanning accelerators can help you tan up to 67% better than compared to using no lotion at all. Tanning lotions give you a deeper, darker tan in less time!
What lotion should I use?
Our professional salon associates can help you choose the right lotion for your skin. A good tan accelerator will moisturize your skin and improve tanning results. Thus allowing you to achieve a better tan in less time!
Do I have to wear those goggles?
Yes!!! Sunlight can damage your eyes producing SEVERE BURNING and possible long term damage. The skin that makes up your eyelids is very thin, and UV light can penetrate it. So wear the goggles! If you are worried about the raccoon eye effect, use a small amount of self tanner around your eyes to blend your tan.
Other helpful advice:
When tanning indoors or out, moisture is lost from the skin. Use a good daily moisturizer after tanning, showers or exercise to keep a healthy glowing skin tone. Choose a good quality lotion when tanning. Exposure to UVA can cause premature skin aging and fine lines. A high quality tanning lotion can help prevent and reduce these effects. It is well worth the money! Remember, like most fun things in life, moderation is the key. Talk with your salon owner about tanning, take care of your skin, and take a break every now and then.
Tanning beds
What are the benefits of a lay down bed vs. a stand up?
The high level stand up bed provides a seamless tan with no tan lines, and bulbs all around for an even all-over glow.
Why do we feature Ergoline beds?
Ergoline is the world's leading manufacturer of professional sun-beds. For years, Ergoline has been setting the industry standards with groundbreaking sun-bed concepts. Innovative sun-bed technologies, modern product design and excellent workmanship are the result of consistent development work.
Types of beds at each Platinum Tan Location:
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9 beds @ Platinum Tan San Diego
- 4 Level 2 beds
Including 1 bronzing bed
- 2 Level 3 beds
1 bed, 1 stand up
- 1 Level 4
- 1 Level 5
- 1 Mystic Tan spray booth
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11 beds @ Platinum Tan La Jolla
- 3 Level 1 beds
- 2 Level 2 beds
- 4 Level 3 beds
1 stand up, 1 240 bed, 2 bronzing
- 1 Level 4 600 bed
- 1 Mystic Tan spray booth
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