When it comes to shopping for suntanning services, many have discovered the hard way that the lowest price is not necessarily the best value in tanning. Where longer, more frequent tanning sessions were required to achieve and maintain a tan, many have found that not only time was wasted, but in the long run, more money was spent too.

When comparing Tan Plus with other tanning salons it pays to consider important factors - lamp wattage, percentage of UV-B, and system upkeep before purchasing a tanning package or membership.

Lamp Wattage

Our suntanning booths were specially engineered utilizing a high-powered ballast (1500 m.a. versus 800 m.a. in others), so as to accommodate a 168 watt V.H.O. (very high output) tanning lamp. Most others are limited to using a 100 watt H.O. (high output) tanning lamp, as their units do not have the ballast system to handle the very high output lamp.

In achieving a tan at Tan Plus, shorter and less frequent sessions are required, resulting in less exposure time to UV radiation. Longer, more frequent tanning sessions may tend to increase chances of eventual damage to the skin because of extreme drying and dehydration.

Percentage of UV-B

Tanning Lamps emit both UV-A rays and UVB rays. While the UV-A rays are mostly associated with a tan, some UV-B rays are needed to help activate the skins' melanin in order to achieve a tan. Tanning lamps are manufactured in a range of from 1% to 7% UV-B. Tan Plus utilizes a 4.2% to 5.0% combination.

In trying to compensate for lower wattage lamps, some tanning salons opt for a higher UV-B lamp. Increasing the UV-B does not make up for lower wattage. It increases the possibility of burning and may jeopardize the health and safety of patrons, especially when controlled by an inexperienced attendant or when no attendant is available at all.

System Upkeep

The most important requirement in properly maintaining tanning equipment is periodic lamp replacement. The 100 watt lamps utilized in other tanning systems have a lamp life of between 600 and 800 hours. This means that after that, (even though they may still produce light), they are no longer effective in producing a tan.

The 168 watt V.H.O. (very high output) lamps, used at Tan Plus are effective for only 300 to 400 hours. Due to their intensity, they generally burn out before the end of their effective life and have to be replaced. This assures you of always getting fresh lamps. We also record our lamp hours on a daily basis to further insure that they do not exceed their effective life.

Between regular lamp changes we remove the lamps and clean them. This prevents dust from accumulating. Heavy dust accumulations and the acrylic used on tanning beds, (between you and the lamps), can reduce the effectiveness of a tanning session by as much as 5%. This may not seem like much, but with low-powered tanning equipment, and outdated lamps, it can make a difference.

Salon Operations

While many states have adopted regulations regarding the use of tanning salon equipment, New Hampshire, as of yet, has not. In the states that are regulated, limitations are placed on the maximum exposure time allowed (usually 15 minutes) and the frequency of visits allowed. They also require that only qualified and knowledgeable personnel be allowed to operate tanning equipment.

The laws set forth in the individual states that have regulations, are imposed to enforce those of the F.D.A. (Food & Drug Administration), that governs the tanning industry as a whole. Even though New Hampshire does not have regulations governing tanning salons, we operate Tan Plus as if there is. Helping our clients achieve and maintain a tan effectively, yet sensibly (with minimal risk), is our top priority.

Tanning in moderation, proper safety precautions, and a good skin care program, will help you achieve and maintain a tan safely.

Shopping For A Tan

Most of us would not consider buying a new pair of shoes without trying them on first for proper fit and comfort. But all-too-often indoor tanners get tempted into buying "cheap" tanning programs only to become disappointed with the results or the condition of the facility they are using.

When trying a different tanning facility, ask to take a tour of the premises first. Once satisfied with the cleanliness and privacy of the facility, then pay for one tanning session. If you feel that the lamps and unit are not going to be effective, you may choose not to waste your time and money, no matter how inexpensive the program may be.

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Disclaimer

Tanning & Natural Health News is a publication of Tan Plus /Essentials Of Life, Barclay Square, 350 Route 108, Somersworth, NH. This publication is designed for educational purposes only and is not intended to be presented as medical advice. Product statements made have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration.