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We’ve all seen the news on the flu this season – record numbers are contracting an incredibly harsh strain. And with that comes the onslaught of trips to the pharmacy to grab antibiotics. This also happens to be the middle of our tanning season, with many salon customers encountering the possibility of a photosensitizing reaction to UV exposure. This includes mild to severe reddening, reactions like hives, rashes, and even serious burns.
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Quite a few medications are linked to photosensitivity when they are used in conjunction with UV exposure from tanning systems or natural sunlight. These reactions can even occur with exposure to indirect sunlight from reflections off snow or water. During my most recent Sun is Life® Certification class at the Four Seasons National Tanning Expo, I explained that over the years, salon operator training classes provided an incredibly long list of photosensitizing medications for operators to share with their customers. Even today, many state regulatory agencies require salons to post such a list. Although the list provides a general direction for many photosensitizing agents, it is ever-evolving and always subject to change.
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If during the skin-typing process, a salon guest acknowledges that they are currently taking ANY medication, advise them to consult their pharmacist or doctor prior to any UV exposure. Unless you’re a doctor, you should not be giving medical advice to your customers.
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Other factors
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There are additional factors that may also come in to play. People who tan too often or whose exposure times are increased too soon can experience rapid skin moisture loss that can cause itching. Sometimes, itching may result from depletion of melanin – this may be caused during tanning when the skin does not have enough melanin in its second layer. Lotions such as “tingle type” products may be a factor, particularly in fair-skinned people, due to the active ingredients in the product that stimulate skin’s microcirculation.
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In addition, perfumes, some laundry detergents, citrus fruits, colognes, soaps and other cosmetics may tend to irritate the skin exposed to UV light and cause itching. Tanners may also experience itching at the beginning of the tanning process; it usually occurs in areas where blood flow to the skin is restricted, and possibly where elastic undergarments are worn. If a tanner experiences itching on the chest or buttocks, suggest that those areas be covered during sessions until the itching subsides, and gradually re-exposed. If the tanning system’s lamps were recently changed, the strength of these new lamps may induce a photosensitized response. Suggest reducing exposure times until the itching subsides.
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So, what do you tell a guest who still complains of post-tan itching after you have reviewed all of the above and none of your answers provide the solution? In many cases, it may be the acrylic shield cleaner! So, make sure that you and your staff are aware that the acrylic surface must be completely wiped clean and dry after each session with all cleaner residue removed. You may also suggest that the tanner use a paper towel moistened with clear water to re-wipe the bed before their session.
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But perhaps one of the more difficult conversations you may have with a customer concerns alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol prior to an indoor tanning session may cause a photosensitive reaction in some people, and increases the risk of overexposure and sunburn. It’s best to explain this risk to a customer who is obviously “under the influence” and suggest they return to the salon the next day; possibly offer an incentive such as a free upgrade session when they return. But, an added risk for these tanners is possible injury when using the tanning equipment – an added risk to your business, as well. In addition, an inebriated customer could make other, possibly new tanners in your salon very uncomfortable. Or, the customer in this state could pass out during a sunbed session and be difficult to awaken – obviously an awkward situation you want to avoid. So, confront the customer immediately and handle it in an appropriate manner.
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Remember: “For those who weigh the risks and benefits of controlled UV exposure, indoor tanning provides a controlled method to obtain a cosmetic tan with sessions delivered according to skin type and a timer designed to minimize risk of overexposure and sunburn.”
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For more on these and other topics to help your business with factual info, visit sunislife.com.
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The following is a partial listing of common medication categories that could make skin sensitive to UV rays:
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- Ace Inhibitors
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines
- Antimicrobials
- Antiparasitics
- Antipsychotics
- Chemotherapy
- Cardiovascular Drugs
- Contraceptives
- Diurectics
- Hypoglycemic Sulfonylureas Nsaids (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
- Phenothiazines
- Psoralens
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If during the skin-typing process, a salon guest acknowledges that they are currently taking
ANY medication, advise them to consult their pharmacist or doctor prior to any UV exposure.
