Wow! This morning at IST Magazine headquarters in Flint, MI, the temperature was a frigid -6°F. That’s right, minus 6! The big news was a winter storm called a “bomb cyclone” which overtook much of the Eastern seaboard and delivered snow and ice to beach destinations like Myrtle Beach and Charleston, SC, and Duck, NC, as well as the Northeast. Crazy stuff to start 2018, for sure! I abstained from partaking in one of those polar plunges with which some people kick off the New Year and got in a strong bike ride before the chill settled in.
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Winter’s deep-freeze leads a good many of us to seek warmth and sunlight and is a strong reason why our industry typically kick-starts in January. You’re probably aware that there is increasing scientific evidence indicating that some people actually require more light exposure in order to effectively function, both physically and mentally. Exposure to bright light, such as that generated by the mid-day summer sun, causes the brain to suppress the release of the hormone melatonin, which acts as an anti-depressant if generated during the daytime. When people are exposed to longer hours of bright light, they feel happier and are able to enjoy life. This is also called heliotherapy. A great source of information is available online from our Sun is Life® Training and Certification course module called, “Tan With a Plan.” Let’s dig in and cover the highlights.
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From a medical application, UV light in the form of lasers, lamps, or a combination of these devices and topical medications that increase UV sensitivity, are sometimes used to treat certain diseases that have not responded to other therapies. Known as phototherapy, this treatment method has been shown to have a positive effect on severe cases of diseases, including:
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- Rickets
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Acne
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
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Note that although many indoor tanners feel that the warmth of the bed and the UV from the lamps help cure the “winter blues,” research indicates that non-UV-emitting light boxes are among the best treatments. One of the foremost authorities on SAD is Dr. Norman Rosenthal. Visit goo.gl/VAyKK8 for more info on SAD, its causes and treatments.
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Does Uv Exposure Offer Any Health Benefits?
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Clearly, there are many known positive effects of regular, moderate UV exposure without burning, from both natural sunlight and artificial light from indoor tanning systems. In fact, many studies of UV from sunlight indicate a positive influence on such maladies as psoriasis, eczema and vitamin D3 deficiency. The Harvard School of Public Health offers excellent information on Vitamin D deficiency. Read more at goo.gl/zrzZnE
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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), brief UV exposure, about 5-15 minutes twice a day in most cities, is beneficial in helping the body produce vitamin D. Vitamin D has an important function in increasing calcium and phosphorus absorption from food and plays a crucial role in skeletal development, immune function and blood cell formation. However, the amount of exposure needed to stimulate vitamin D production in the body depends on several factors, including the time of day and the time of year, and proximity to the equator.
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More recent studies also indicate that many of the same positive effects are produced through UV exposure from an indoor tanning system.
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In indoor tanning surveys, indoor tanners point to a “feel better/look better” effect that boosts self-esteem as a leading factor in choosing indoor tanning (more to follow on this in an upcoming IST exclusive). The “feel good” may be from the endorphin release that comes from tanning indoors, similar to that experienced by distance runners. In an effort to broaden public awareness, Sun is Life supports and encourages ongoing research to understand more of these positive effects and will provide web links to these ever-increasing studies.
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However, the Food and Drug Administration advises the tanning industry not to make medical, health or safety claims regarding indoor tanning. In addition, these claims may be perceived by consumers as false, misleading, attempting to entice and/or be deceptive and are monitored by the Federal Trade Commission. Sun is Life Certification and Training strictly adheres to these regulations and advises salons to completely avoid claims such as: “sunbeds are a source of Vitamin D; “get your Vitamin D here at our salon;” “indoor tanning prevents cancer.”
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Other phrases to avoid in the promotion of UV tanning services may also include:
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- Cheers you up
- Reduces heart disease
- Prevents diabetes
- Beats Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Helps prevent Multiple Sclerosis
- Prevents cavities
- Relieves aches and pains
- Reduces risk of cancers such as breast cancer
- Boosts fertility
- Gives you more energy
- Eases Irritable Bowel Disorder
- Alleviates menstrual discomfort
- Helps heal skin conditions: psoriasis, acne, eczema
- Boosts your immune system
- Helps you lose weight
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So, what CAN you state?
[gap height=”15″]Post this statement in your salon: Millions of people weigh the risk/benefit of UV exposure and choose indoor tanning facilities where UV exposure is provided in a controlled environment for obtaining a cosmetic tan, responsibly and in moderation. Exposures are delivered according to individual skin type and with a timing system that reduces the risk of overexposure and sunburn.
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That is what indoor tanning offers, it’s what we have ALWAYS offered, and you should feel good about stating it!
In an effort to broaden public awareness, Sun is Life® supports and encourages ongoing research to understand more of these positive effects and will provide web links to these ever-increasing studies.
