Tanning takes place in the skin's outermost layer called the epidermis where special cells called the melanocytes react to ultraviolet (UV) light. When exposed to UV-B light (short wave UV), melanocytes produce the pigment known as melanin. The pinkish melanin travels up through the epidermis and is absorbed by other skin cells. When exposed to UV-A light (longer wave UV), melanin oxidizes or darkens. This is your skin's way of protecting itself against too much UV light.
Indoor Tanning- with our state-of-the-art equipment allows us to monitor and control UV-A and UV-B exposure so that you can safely tan without burning. This controlled and comfortable environment allows you to easily maintain a healthy tan in only minutes a month, saving you time and money. With the proper care this is the better, safer way to tan.
Outdoor Tanning- exposes you to uncontrolled and often excessive amounts of multi-frequency UV light that can cause "sunburn", and eventually leads to permanent damage. Climate can also affect your tanning experience with over cast skies or sweltering temperatures that can make tanning uncomfortable, and often impossible to determine if there's been over-exposure. Therefore, it is important to always wear the proper protection when tanning outdoors.
Vitamin D isn't like other vitamins that you can easily ingest as part of your diet. It is best absorbed through the skin from exposure to UV light. In order to get the amount of vitamin D produced during 20 minutes of sun exposure or 5-7 minutes in a tanning booth, you would need to eat more than 100 eggs. Even foods with added vitamin D, like milk, don't come close to providing the necessary amount.
There is mounting evidence that vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in Canadian society because of Canada's northerly latitude, which makes natural vitamin D production outdoors impossible six months of the year. Therefore, its important to achieve the amount of vitamin D your body requires through a safe and healthy tanning regime.
Skin Protection - Though sunscreen is not needed while tanning in our beds, we always recommend that you properly moisturize to protect your skin from dryness and damage that occurs from UV exposure. Elements Sun Spa offers quality products to aid in the acceleration of your tan, and to also properly maintain healthy skin.
Eye Protection - Lip and eye protection are always important. Lips don't produce melanin, and eyelids are too thin to block UV light. That's why it's always important to wear lip balm with sunscreen and protective eye goggles.
Medication - Some medications are not recommended while tanning. If you are on any medications please consult your doctor about tanning.