Smart Tanning Habits: Tanning Responsibly

The honest truth first

No UV tanning is risk free. The FDA, the Skin Cancer Foundation and Ohio’s state consent form all link UV exposure to skin aging and skin cancer. If you choose to tan with UV, these habits help you do it responsibly. If you want zero UV, a spray tan gets you the glow with none of it.

Know your skin type and start low

Your consultant checks your skin type on your first visit and sets a short starting time. Ohio rules require this. The FDA advises against using the maximum time on your first session.

Space your sessions

Ohio’s state consent form asks you to confirm you have not used a sunlamp in the last 24 hours, so plan at least a full day between sessions. Once you have your color, the FDA notes many people maintain it with about one session a week.

Never burn

A burn means too much. The FDA notes sunburn can take 6 to 48 hours to show up, so feeling fine right after does not mean you are in the clear. If you are pink, skip until it is fully gone. Also skip outdoor tanning on the same day you tan indoors.

Eyewear every single time

Required, not suggested. Protective goggles that fit snug and are not cracked, every session.

Medications and photosensitivity

Some medicines, foods, cosmetics and skin products can make you more sensitive to UV. Ohio’s consent form and the FDA both say to check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take medication. Started something new? Ask before your next session.

Tattoos

UV can fade ink over time. Many tanners cover fresh or favorite tattoos with a sticker or a tattoo protecting product. Brand new tattoos are still healing, so skip UV on them.

Indoor lotions vs outdoor oils

Use lotions made for indoor tanning. Outdoor oils are not made for tanning beds, and some products contain ingredients that can make skin more sensitive to UV.

Hydration and aftercare

• Drink water before and after.
• Moisturize daily.
• Use broad spectrum sunscreen outside, even on cloudy days.

Age rules

Ohio: 18 and up sign their own consent. Ages 16 and 17 need a parent or guardian to sign at the salon, good for 90 days and up to 45 sessions. Under 16 needs a parent or guardian to sign before each session and stay at the salon the whole time.

West Virginia (Lavalette): you must be 18 or older to use a tanning bed, with a photo ID showing your birth date.

When to skip a session

• You are sunburned or still pink.
• You have open wounds or skin lesions.
• You have a personal or family history of skin cancer.
• You get frequent cold sores.
• You started a new medication and have not checked with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Your skin burns and never tans in the sun.

Pro tip: Skipping is not quitting. Spray tan is our UV free glow and it is ready when you are.

FAQ