Understanding why you tan:
When skin is exposed to UVB light, cells called melanocytes in the deeper dermis layer of the skin produce increased amounts of melanin, the tanning pigment. This is then transferred to the top layer of skin, the epidermis. UVA acts upon the melanin near the surface by oxidising it. This turns the melanin brown and creates what we know as a tan. UVB also produces a thickening of the horny layer of the skin. This process, together with the protection from the oxidised melanin can create a level of sun protection in the skin.
Achieving the best tan:
The best way to create and maintain a tan is by encouraging the melanocytes to produce more melanin and then drawing it to the top layers of skin and retaining and oxidising it there. This is done by exposing the skin frequently (minimum of 3 times a week) via a series of tanning sessions which do not burn the skin (which is actually counterproductive and harmful) and by keeping the skin well moisturized to prevent premature shedding of surface skin cells.
Did you know that dry skin actually reflects UV light? While moisturized skin can absorb up to 40% more UV light.
Many of the lotions at Today's are designed to encourage the melanin to rise to the surface of the skin and oxidise, hence accelerating the tan. Lotions also re-hydrate the skin preventing drying of the skin. Today's recommends using tanning accelerators before each session and moisturizers after and between all visits. If you over expose your skin to UV rays, your skin will likely burn or peel. This means your body is shedding melanin and therefore the skin is loosing it`s tan and it's protection.
Today's also recommends removing all makeup before tanning. Most makeup products contain SPF's that are not necessary when tanning in a controlled environment. Some cosmetic products may even contain ingredients that will increase your sensitivity to ultraviolet exposure increasing the chance of burns.
Tanning Lotion Basics:
Accelerator or Intensifier: The most basic tanning lotion, containing ingredients that hydrate the skin and promote tanning. Best for sensitive skin because they have fewer ingredients.
Bronzer: An accelerator with additional coloring for instant gratification. Most bronzers contain the sunless tanner Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) but some are DHA-free and contain natural ingredients (such as walnut extract) instead.
Warming/Tingle: Contains ingredients that increase circulation and oxygen at the surface of the skin, which increases the oxidation of melanin. The sensation of these products can range from warm to intensely hot, so they are best used by experienced tanners.
Tips for safe tanning:
Protect your eyes. Simply closing them, wearing outdoor sunglasses or covering your face with a towel is not adequate protection against possible long-term eye injury. That risk can be eliminated by wearing the FDA compliant eye protection provided at Today's.
Protect your lips. They do not produce melanin and they will burn easily unless you protect them with lip balms or sunscreens.
If you plan to tan in the nude, cover previously unexposed areas for the majority of your tanning time for the first few visits. Gradually increase exposure to these areas until they catch up to the rest of your body.
Always start a new tanning routine in plenty of time to achieve the tan you want. The best and safest tans are achieved by starting at lower tanning times and slowly working your way up, avoiding at all times the possibility of burns.
Remember to always leave at least a 24 hour time space between tanning sessions.
Have any tanning questions? Don't hesitate to use the Contact Us form and we will answer your question as soon as we can!
Reception Desk at Today's