Q. Do I really need to use lotion?

Yes, the use of indoor tanning lotions will provide the three essentials of effective tanning: hydration, nutrition, and oxygenation. Skin must be hydrated to reach and maintain the desired tan. Dry, neglected skin reflects UV light and exfoliates much faster. The natural, vitamin rich products sold at Sun Lounge Tanning Studio's are fundamental to the skin's appearance and ability to tan. Vitamins replenish necessary nutrition to skin cells, promoting cell regeneration and oxygenation. Oxygen fuels skin cell functions, thereby accelerating the tanning process. Our trained personnel will recommend the appropriate product for you.

Q. Why do I need to wear eye protection?

Eye protection is required by law.The eyelid does not effectively block ultraviolet light while tanning. Therefore the use of approved eye protection is required at the Sun Lounge Tanning Studio's to insure that our customers do not suffer ill effects such as cataracts or loss of night vision.

Q. Do I have to sign a long term contract?

We offer a no-hassle monthly membership with no contracts required. You may cancel your membership at any time with no cancellation fees.

Q. What if I'm not satisfied with the results of my tanning sessions?

We're confident that you will be satisfied with your results at the Sun Lounge however, during the first thirty days of your membership if you are not completely satisfied we will refund all of your money less the cost of actual tanning sessions used.

Q. What is the Sun Saver program?

Sometimes you may not be able to take advantage of your tanning membership due to various reasons. You can put your membership on the "Sun Saver" program. We will bill your EFT account only $5 per month which is accumulated in an account for you to use on lotions, upgrades or other products. Then, when you are ready to come back to tanning, we will reactivate your account without you having to pay another new member fee. The Sun Saver program will also insure your previous rates in the event of a rate increase.

Q. What should I wear when I tan?

Tanning attire is entirely up to the client. The potential danger of tanning nude is ultraviolet overexposure or sunburn of sensitive body parts that are not normally exposed to ultraviolet light. It is recommended that sensitive body parts be gradually exposed to prevent overexposure.

Q. Why do some dermatologists warn people against sun exposure?

While some dermatologists may advocate total avoidance of UV exposure, the media seems to quote only those who do. Many dermatologists and others from the medical community have acknowledged the need for moderate sun exposure, while advocating the use of sunscreens.

Q. Does tanning help treat depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder?

There exists a growing body of scientific evidence which indicates that some people actually require more light exposure in order to function properly. Exposure to bright light, such as that emitted by the mid-day summer sun, causes the brain to suppress the release of the hormone melatonin. Melatonin acts as a depressant in the body if generated during the daytime. Thus, when affected people are exposed to longer hours of bright light, they feel happier, euphoric and more able to enjoy life. Bright light sources emitting only visible light are now frequently used to successfully treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Sub-Syndromal Seasonal Affective Disorder (SSAD).

Q.Can tanning cause wrinkles?

Excessive exposure can destroy the resilient fibers of the lower skin layer, thereby causing the top layer of skin to sag. Thus, elastosis or wrinkling appears. If UV light is not blocked by pigmentation in the outer skin layer, it can penetrate to the dermis and destroy skin elasticity. Thus, it is advised to avoid overexposure to ultraviolet light.

Q. Will I burn?

Burning is the enemy. Tanning is your skin's natural defense mechanism and protection against burning. Burning leads to photodamage, premature aging, sun-spots, drying, flaking and peeling of the skin, and should be avoided at all costs. At Sun Lounge Tanning Studio's you can tan without burning. Moderation is the key and is enforced.

Q. Does tanning cause melanoma?

There is no conclusive evidence which substantiates that malignant melanoma is caused by gradual, moderate UV exposure. However, those who are predisposed to develop melanoma due to hereditary factors may intensify this condition with exposure to indoor or outdoor UV light. While some studies have suggested a link between severe sunburn and malignant melanoma, there are other studies available that prove an inverse relationship. In a study published in the International Journal of Cancer in 1989 (known as the Western Canada Melanoma Study), Canadian researchers found a significant inverse association between melanoma and chronic or long-term occupational sun exposure in men, with the lowest risk in those with maximum occupational exposure. This may suggest that repeated exposure can be protective. Gradual, moderate exposure is not believed to be a strong influential factor as melanoma generally develops on those areas not normally exposed to UV light.

Please visit www.tanningtruth.com for the latest information about exposure to UV light.