Question 1

How do sunbeds work? Is the indoor the same as outdoor tanning?

Accepted Answer

The indoor tanning process is quite similar to that of tanning outdoors since the UV lamps imitate the sun. Tanning takes place when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet light. The lamps in indoor tanning equipment emit UV light, as the sun does, but with different ratio of UVA and UVB and in a more controlled environment. In a sunbed, you have control over your exposure and you can achieve even results following the correct exposure times for your skin. On the contrary, people in outdoor tanning are not able to control the amount of UV light when they lay under the sun because of many factors, some of them unpredictable, like the time of the day, season, weather conditions, ozone layer, proximity of the equator etc.

Question 2

What is the age limit for sunbed use?

Accepted Answer

The minimum age to tan in Irelamd is 18 and no one under the age of 18 is allowed to enter any tanning room or use any UV tanning equipment.  A salon is fully in its rights to ask for ID if someone looks young and under the age of 18.

Question 3

What is the difference between Stand-Up and Lie-Down tanning?

Accepted Answer

Individual preference! Beds are as varied as users and the main difference between stand-up and lay-down tanning is individual preference. Some clients like to pop in for a short session on a stand-up on their way to work whereas others like to enjoy a longer session on a lay-down to relax and unwind!
 
Modern beds are designed to tan all over through the careful design of the lamp array, client position and reflectors. Our tanning consultants are always happy to provide you with a tour of the equipment offered at your local store and our equipment list provides a convenient overview.

Question 4

How do I prepare my skin for UV tanning?

Accepted Answer

Dry skin reflects light and sheds more frequently. Any tan that develops is shallow and does not last. Moisturising is key to developing a deeper, darker tan. A week before your first session, thoroughly exfoliate and moisturise. Ensure that you moisturise after every bath or shower and use a UV specific lotion during your session.

Question 5

How many minutes should I have?

Accepted Answer

Session length is determined by skin type and tanning history. The first session with us is usually the minimum session length suitable for your skin type which in turn enables our trained Tanning Consultants to help you design the tanning package to suit you.

Question 6

How long does it take to build up a tan?

Accepted Answer

The time taken to build a tan varies dependant on many factors such as skin type and condition of the skin. On average, a base tan can be developed between 3 and 5 sessions.
 
You are able to maximise your tanning potential by ensuring that the skin is fully exfoliated and thoroughly moisturised. We stock a wide range of UV lotions that encourage the tanning process as well as replace moisture lost during your session. Our tanning consultants are trained to help you find a lotion to suit your preferences and tanning requirements.

Question 7

How much time between sessions?

Accepted Answer

The amount of time left between sessions varies depending on skin type and whether you are building or maintaining a tan. Our policy states that no more than one session can be used in any 24-hour period. The reason for this being that the tanning process takes 24 hours to complete and as such, this reduces the risk of over-exposure and maximises your tanning potential.
When building a tan, it is important to not leave more than 72 hours between sessions as after this time, the tan will begin to recede.
Our tanning consultants are trained to assist you in designing your personal tanning plan which is determined by your skin type, tanning history and tanning preferences.

Question 8

I want my tan to last longer. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Keeping your skin healthy and moisturised is the number one factor, which enables you to tan quicker and maintain your tan for longer. After a tanning session, the skin continues to produce melanin for the next 12 hours and keeping the skin moisturised during that time is essential. At The Tanning Centre, we stock some of the most known sunbed creams and moisturisers formulated to intensify your tan, hydrate your skin, repair any skin damage caused by dryness and prevent your skin from exfoliation.  What is more, tanning on a regular basis will prevent your tan from fading and in combination with a moisturised skin will extend the length of your tan and make your skin look healthier and younger. Explore The Tanning Centre’s wide range of Sunbed Creams.

Question 9

Will my tanning session affect me straight away?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your skin type, your current skin colour and your tanning lotion. Usually it takes 3 to 5 sessions for someone to develop a base tan which can then be maintained with moderate repeat sessions, moisturising and tanning lotions. The actual tanning process takes 24 hours for you to see the full effect of each individual tanning session.

Question 10

Do I really need to use protective eyewear while tanning?

Accepted Answer

Eye protection is a must while tanning both indoors and outdoors. The use of goggles or other protective eyewear is not only a prerequisite for eye safety when using a sunbed but it is also required by the law. The eyelids that cover the eyes are too thin to protect the eyes from any damage caused by the UV rays, something that may result in temporary or permanent sight impairment and problems like conjunctivitis or cataracts. Remember! Always choose goggles specially designed for sunbed use and approved by the regulatory authorities. At The Tanning Centre we provide each customer with certified protective eyewear which has been thoroughly sanitised before each individual tanning session.

Question 11

Can I tan while I'm pregnant?

Accepted Answer

While there is no research to indicate UV light would have a negative effect on an unborn baby, our policy is to prohibit the use of UV tanning equipment.
 
We are always happy to place an active tanning package "on hold" for the duration of a pregnancy or transfer credit to a friend or family member. Packages are reactivated for the amount of time remaining on the package at the time of placing it "on hold".

Question 12

Do I need to use a tanning lotion?

Accepted Answer

Tanning lotions are proven to have a stark affect on your tanning ability. They  have been designed to rejuvenate and repair your skin, keeping it healthier. Healthy skin allows you to tan faster, ensures your tan lasts for longer and gives you a better colour. The vitamins and minerals added can also help to combat the ageing process. By using a tanning lotion, the tanning process is sped up, meaning you save both time and money on tanning sessions to get the same (or even better) results.
 
Dry skin reflects light, meaning that your tan will be less effective and will need to spend more time tanning to get the same results. Not using a tanning lotion will also lead to drying skin, collagen loss and a loss of elasticity in the skin, overall giving a dull, unhealthy appearance.

Question 13

What do I wear on a sunbed?

Accepted Answer

This differs from person to person on what they prefer. As you are the only one in the room with the sunbed, many people tan naked to avoid tan lines, however it is just as normal to wear underwear or a bikini whilst tanning.

Question 14

Do I avoid showering immediately after a tanning session?

Accepted Answer

Wait at least 3-4 hours after tanning to let the skin's melanin to become fully stimulated.

Frequently asked questions