Getting the Most Out of Your Tanning Session
Establishing An Optimal Tanning Schedule

by Rick Mattoon

One of the most important responsibilities a tanning salon owner or operator has is determining a proper tanning schedule for you, the tanning client. The indoor tanning salon offers the most controlled environment for tanning found anywhere. It is this optimal tanning schedule that will ensure your tanning visit offers maximum results with moderate exposure.

Skin Typing Is Key

The most important factor involved in calculating your "optimal" tanning time is skin typing. Professional indoor tanning staffs routinely have a system in place to accurately and consistently identify various skin types categorized by their ultraviolet sensitivity. These categories run from a Skin Type 1 (not able to acquire a tan, burns profusely), up to a Skin Type 6 (tans abundantly, has naturally black or dark brown skin).

Until recently, one of the most commonly used skin typing systems for indoor tanners was the Fitzpatrick System. An off-shoot of an earlier system, the Fitzpatrick system was first developed in 1987 for the sole purpose of determining the optimal UVR exposure for the treatment of psoriasis with psoralen plus ultraviolet therapy.

In 1996, Patricia E. Reykdal and Donald L. Smith introduced a new Skin Type/Subtype system (see page 32) that was developed specifically for the indoor tanner. This proposed system was designed to enhance the existing Fitzpatrick System of 1 through 6 by using three subtypes of 2 (2A, 2B and 2C) and two subtypes of 3 (3A and 3B). The Reykdal-Smith System was suggested to specifically address the unique challenges of tanning extremely sensitive clients in indoor tanning salons.

In some states, as part of an "initial visit statement," salon operators use a state-approved skin typing form to determine a person's "skin sensitivity" when calculating a session time for a client. For instance, in Louisiana, a state-generated form using a point system is divided into three categories--hereditary disposition, sunbathing experiences and tanning habits. The client answers 10 questions and the results are tallied to determine their skin sensitivity. A person using this program is assigned a "skin behavior" estimate of Very Sensitive (I), Sensitive (II), Normal (III) or Very Resistant (IV).

Plugging In The Numbers

No matter what skin typing system your tanning salon uses, matching your skin type to the manufacturer's listed tanning schedule is a crucial element in establishing an effective tanning program.

Since 1986, manufacturers have been required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to post a recommended exposure schedule--including duration and spacing of sequential exposures and maximum exposure times in minutes-on tanning units.

The manufacturer's recommended schedule is designed to allow you to gradually build up a tan and maintain it while reducing the risk of acute injury or delayed adverse effects. Because the UV dose necessary for developing a tan is not the same for everyone, the manufacturer's exposure schedule for the client depends on the skin type of the individual, as well as how many prior tanning sessions the person has had.

In addition to standardized skin typing procedures and use of a manufacturer's recommended schedule as a guide, additional measures are taken by indoor tanning professionals for maximizing your tanning session. Pre-established written standards for things like parental consent for minors, photosensitive drug checklists and a salon eyewear policy help ensure your tanning visits are as productive as possible.

Also, salons rely on tanning equipment manufacturers, distributors, industry associations and even insurance agents to help develop written standards for proper salon operations. Many times these groups offer written material available for the professional and controlled operation of tanning equipment located within your neighborhood tanning salon.

While written local and federal tanning codes are reliable resources used for establishing salon standards, they also help your tanning professional develop procedures that are consistent with important standards that help enhance your tanning session. For more information about how you can optimize your tanning potential, please talk to your indoor tanning professional.