So, we turn another page and ease into fall. Although it’s still hot in some places and there’s still time for a last, leisurely weekend day at the pool, a gentle breeze portends the change to come. Parents are pulling kids along to the mall or shopping center in search of bookbags, pencils, new clothes and shoes. … “I’ve got my lunch packed up, my boots tied tight, I hope I don’t get in a fight, ohhhh, back to school …” (apologies to Adam Sandler, but the homage seems appropriate.)
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Several years ago, IST Publisher Vince Lorraine contacted me about an idea he had – the indoor tanning industry needed a good shot in the arm where salon operator training was concerned. Too many salons were relying on anecdotal or misleading ideas regarding the facts about UV exposure and indoor tanning. This lack of education eventually led to a state of confusion among salon operators, staff and customers – something that the anti-tanning media seized upon.
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Although there is a plethora of known positive effects of UV exposure, equipment used in our industry is listed with the Food and Drug Administration (21CFR 1040.20) as a Class II medical device. Such devices are used to promote the cosmetic effect of UV exposure alone, and no “health claims” about indoor tanning are permitted. The advertising and marketing of indoor tanning is also monitored by the Federal Trade Commission. Salons that were led into promoting these positive effects publicly were suddenly placed under the scrutiny of the media, elected officials and many in the medical industry, as well as state and local governments.
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That said, Vince shared his idea with me: salons needed an operator training and certification program that provided factual information on UV exposure and other pertinent guidelines on professional salon management. This educational tool could be made available 24/7 to anyone with internet access. The innovative certification had to be affordable to make it a “no brainer” decision. It would also be made available in a classroom format, primarily at industry expo venues. Having taught indoor tanning certification for years made my decision to join and forward Vince’s mission an easy one.
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We look forward to making Sun is Life available at the industry’s largest upcoming expos and conferences.
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We have taken great pride in offering Sun is Life Training and Certification to our industry and look forward to making it available at the industry’s largest upcoming expos and conferences. In the next few months, salons will have the opportunity to take SIL Certification in October at the Four Seasons National Expo in St. Charles, MO and the Heartland Tan America’s Tanning Expo in Lee’s Summit, MO in February, 2019. If you are a regular at these industry events, bring your staff and get them certified! If you’re relatively new to the industry, you AND your staff should get certified! An added plus: you’ll hear some of the industry’s finest speakers and see up close and personal a wide array of equipment, lotions, computer systems and other ancillary products related to indoor tanning. These are can’t-miss events!
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Note that one of the mainstays in IST is our monthly “Salon of Distinction” feature. Salons that have successfully completed Sun is Life certification are offered a chance to have their business highlighted in a nationally-circulated magazine! It’s just a small token of our appreciation for supporting Sun is Life. The enhanced professionalism and confidence it creates for every salon team is the real benefit.
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If you have completed Sun is Life and want to be considered for the “Salon of Distinction” feature, simply email joe@istmagazine.com You could be next!
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For more info about Sun is Life certification, visit sunislife.com
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