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Tanning is the simple process that takes place when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. When ultraviolet light enters the skin, it comes in contact with a specialized skin cell called a melanocyte. When the melanocyte cell is stimulated, it sends out a signal to quickly begin producing more "melanin" or skin pigment. As the melanin travels to the surface of your skin, it comes in contact with oxygen and turns to a brownish color which is called a tan.
HOW TO GET A BASE TAN
We suggest 6-7 visits within 10 days. The first few times you will likely start out with reduced time and work up each visit to the full time. If you turned red the previous time, then remain at the same time during future visits until you no longer get red. If the red fades after an hour or so, you are able to move up (we recommend 2 minute increments). However, if it lasted a day or two, remain at that time. Remember that heat does not tan you, and that getting hot and sweating in the bed will actually limit the amount of tan you get. You may be drying out your skin and causing it to flake off early, removing the top layer of tan. If you burn and peel, you will have to start all over. To maintain a good tan normally requires tanning 2 -3 times a week, depending on the person and the bed.
WHY TAN?
There are both physiological and psychological reasons. Most people tan because having a tan can build confidence and make a person feel more attractive. It also helps camouflage imperfections and makes the person look leaner and more athletic. Other people may tan for medical reasons, such as psoriasis or depression.
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