Tanning Myths
Myth #1 "I've heard that indoor tanning is more harmful than tanning outdoors because the UV light exposure is more intense."
Fact: People tanning indoors are exposed to a scientifically calibrated amount of UV light. When used according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's exposure guidelines (posted on each machine), tanning beds are designed to maximize tanning and minimize burning. Conversely, tanning outdoors is an unregulated environment. There are many factors that have to be considered when you tan outdoors: geography, time of day, weather conditions, the seasons, and the ozone layer. Remember, the best way to safeguard yourself from sun damage is to wear appropriate levels of SPF sunscreen outdoors - even if you already have a tan. You should also know that even with sunscreen protection, UV exposure can still lead to skin cancer and premature aging, even if you don't burn.
Myth #2 "My friend said she heard that tanning bakes your internal organs. Sometimes I notice a strange smell after I tan. Could this be my organs baking?"
Fact: The UV light from a sun bed is similar to UV light from the sun, and cannot penetrate deaper than the skin to harm internal organs. This odor you may notice is what's commonly known as the "after tan" odor, a common occurrence when tanning indoors or outdoors, which is caused by harmless bacteria. California Tan lotions contain the Biosaccharide Complex, which helps prevent after tan odor.
Myth #3 "I have been told from several of my friends that showering directly after tanning will wash your tan away. They say its best to wait about 3 hours after tanning to shower."
Fact: Taking a shower after tanning will not wash your tan away. A natural tan takes 24 to 48 hours to develop. The tanning process occurs within the epidermis when melanocyte cells are stimulated by ultraviolet light that causes them to produce the pigment melanin. Melanin production results in the tanned appearance of the skin and is the skin's natural defense against the sun and over-exposure, i.e. sun-burning. Melanin travels to the surface, where it eventually flakes off. This process allows us to develop new skin every four to eight weeks. Keeping your skin hydrated and exfoliated will help maintain a more radiant and healthy-looking tan.