Q: Why develop a base tan?
A: Your body’s natural protection against the sun is a base tan. The increased melanin surrounds the DNA cells protecting them. Your skin also thickens providing more protection to the layers below the epidermis.
Without this protection sunburn is more likely to occur, therefore damaging the skin cells. Always follow the golden rule of tanning: NEVER SUNBURN.
Q: Should I shower after tanning?
A: Showering will not wash away your tan. However, if you are using a lotion with an added bronzer it may be good to wait, as to not wash away the sunless tanner.
Q: Do I need to burn to start a base tan?
A: Absolutely not! To tan smartly you should never sunburn. Tanning is similar to everything else and should be done in moderation and without overexposure. Do not expose red skin to more sunlight. This can permanently damage the skins ability to repair itself.
Q: How does the tanning process work?
A: UVA and UVA rays are both needed to produce a tan. Tanning beds provide both UV rays. Each type of bed has a different ratio of the two rays in order to give a different result. UVB rays signal melanocytes to produce melanin and raise it to the surface. UVA oxidizes the melanin previously produced, turning it brown. UVA also penetrates deeper, lasting longer.
Q: Can I tan if I’m pregnant?
A: The heat can disturb you and your growing baby but the rays will not penetrate deeper than the layer of skin named the Dermis. Make sure to consult your physician before continuing to tan.
Q: Does the temperature of the bed matter?
A: No, the temperature of the tanning bed will not effect the tanning process taking place. The bulbs and wattage within the bed will be what causes a difference.
Q: What causes my skin to smell after tanning?
A: Melanin! A natural side effect of melanin production is the smell. Some lotions have ingredients in them that will help reduce the smell, but a shower will definitely contribute to removing such smell.
