1.  How old do you have to be to tan in a tanning bed?

The State of Illinois requires that an individual must be 18 years of age to tan in a UV tanning bed.  SUNLESS TANNING IS NOT ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT; THEREFORE, THERE IS NO MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT.  

2.  Is indoor tanning the same as tanning outside in the sun?

Tanning beds basically emit ultraviolet light, the same way the sun does.  When you tan at an indoor tanning facility, your skin produces a tan the same way it does when you lay out in the sun; through ultraviolet (UV) light.  There is one important difference when you are out in the sun, you cannot control the amount of UV light you are exposed to because it is affected by changes in the atmosphere.  Indoor tanning is one way to regulate the amount of UV light you are exposed to because you are in a controlled environment.  You can gradually increase your exposure time to make sure you don't get a sunburn.

3.  Why does Executive Tans offer different types of tanning beds?

Each tanning bed performs differently; producing different results based on an individual's tanning potential.  Some tanning beds produce different combinations of ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B, producing different tanning results.  Executive Tans offers a variety of bed types to ensure that our customers have the best tanning options to reach their highest tanning potential.  Our Smart Tan certified tanning consultants will guide you in choosing which bed is right for you. 

4.  How long does it take to get a tan?

Usually, you will begin to notice results after a few tanning sessions, but it may take a few weeks of regular tanning (at least three times per week) to get the color that you are looking for. IF YOU ARE DEVELOPING A BASE TAN BEFORE GOING ON A VACATION, YOU WOULD WANT TO START TANNING ABOUT  TWO TO THREE WEEKS BEFORE YOU GO.

5.  How often should I tan?

In order to build a tan, it is important to tan regularly.  Don't let too much time go by between visits or your tan will begin to fade.  ILLINOIS STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT YOU MUST ALLOW  24 HOURS BETWEEN EACH TANNING SESSION.  Once you have a base tan, you can maintain it by tanning one or two times a week. 

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6.  When shouldn't I tan?

It is not recommended to tan indoors or outdoors if you are taking photosensitive medications.  These medications can greatly increase the risk of overexposure.  If you are unsure about your medication, ask your physician or ask a tanning consultant at Executive Tans to see a list of photosensitive medications. 

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7.  Do I need 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 Executive Tans.

8.  Do I really need to use lotion while tanning indoors?

Yes!  The use of indoor tanning lotions will provide hydration, nutrition, and oxygenation, which are essential to reach your tanning potential.  Skin must be hydrated to reach and maintain the desired tan.  Dry, neglected skin reflects UV light and exfoliates much faster, resulting in the loss of a tan.  The vitamin-rich products sold at Executive Tans are vital to the skin's appearance and ability to tan.  Our trained personnel will recommend the appropriate product for you. 

9.  What are the potential health benefits of tanning?

Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin."  UV light is the main source of vitamin D, accounting for 90 percent of vitamin D production.  Vitamin D is essential for good health.  Studies have shown the presence of vitamin D in the body decreases the risk of osteoporosis, as well as decreasing the risk of certain cancers.