Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can the UV rays emitted by indoor tanning lamps pass through the skin and affect internal organs or fry unborn babies?

A. NO!! The UV rays do not emit sufficient energy to penetrate past the skin layers. Despite claims and rumors to the contrary, internal organs (and unborn fetuses) are not directly impacted by UV light waves.

Q. Why do dermatologists warn people against sun exposure?

A. While some dermatologists advocate total avoidance of all sun exposure, the media seems to quote only those who do. Much money is to be made by scaring people out of the sun.

Q. Does tanning cause Melanoma?

A. There is no conclusive evidence which substantiates that malignant melanoma is caused by gradual, moderate UV exposure. People in Alaska and other northern states have far more deaths per year than people from Hawaii, Florida and all other sun filled states. Melanoma usually occurs on parts of the body that receive no sun exposure. However, severe sunburn before the age of 30 is one of the risk factors for melanoma later in life.

Q. Can tanning indoors cause cancer?

A. It might be said that tanning could actually prevent cancer. Research from Dr. William Grant has proven that, in America, increased sun exposure would result in 185,000 fewer cases of internal cancers every year and 30,000 fewer deaths, just from Vitamin D alone!

Q. Can pregnant women tan indoors?

A. There is no current scientific reason why a pregnant woman cannot tan indoors or outdoors. In fact, some researchers believe the production of Vitamin D may be beneficial to both the mother and fetus. However there is some concern that the heat build-up which occurs when tanning indoors (and outdoors) may adversely affect some pregnant woman. A pregnant woman should consult their physician before tanning indoors or outdoors. (If a pregnant woman is given permission to tan, the 10 minute bed has less heat than a 20 minute bed.)

Q. Why is there more skin cancer today than 20 years ago?

A. Because we are reaping what we sowed 20 plus years ago. In the 60s, 70s and 80s, we thought the more the better and when it came to sun, we took no precautions. As a matter of fact we thought baby oil and iodine and hours of baking and burning in the sun was the perfect combination for a good sun tan. Today, we know that moderation is the key. And when tanning outdoors, we now understand that using the correct SPF lotion will protect us from sun burning. The golden rule for sunning: NEVER SUNBURN!

Q. Isn't it dangerous for teenagers to tan indoors?

A. Quite the contrary - teens who tan indoors, sunburn less! JoyDell's can help parents decide if tanning indoors is best for their teen. Many teens who are active outdoors during the spring and summer months, or on their way to a sun filled vacation can get a base tan indoors and actually could help prevent sunburn. (Teens tanning under the age of 18 require a parental consent.)

Q. So, why tan indoors?

A. People who decide to tan should choose to tan indoors because indoor tanning offers an environment that is controlled by skin-typing and exposure schedules. 85% of people who tan in an indoor tanning facility and use sunscreen appropriately do not burn when they go outdoors. Tanning is your body's natural defense against sunburn.

For more information, visit:   www.tanningtruth.com