Frequently Asked Questions

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Southern Sun welcomes anyone 18 and older to come in to experience our quality tanning bed. However, we do have a strict age guidelines for those under the age of 18—the FDA-recommended minimum age for tanning beds. The minimum age for tanning is regulated by individual state laws.

If you’re between the ages of 14 and 18 and would like to enjoy our tanning bed, you’re welcome to do so, provided that your parent or legal guardian co-signs an informed consent form and agrees to take full responsibility for any charges you may incur. 

If you’re under 16, we ask that your parent or guardian stay at the facility for the duration of your tanning session. No one under age 14 may use a tanning bed.

Yes, appointments are required and you must be a member of Southern Sun.

NO, no one under the age of 18 may be the tanning room without a signed consent form.

A growing body of scientific evidence exists that shows some people require more light exposure in order to function properly. Bright light exposure, such as the mid-day summer sun, causes the brain to suppress the release of the hormone melatonin which acts as a depressant in the body if generated during the daytime. Effected people, exposed to longer hours of bright light, feel happier and more able to enjoy life. Bright light sources emitting only visible light are now frequently used to successfully treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Sub-syndrome Seasonal Affective Disorder (SSAD). 

Indoor tanning provides a controlled environment with consistent exposure to UV rays, allowing for a more even and longer-lasting tan. It also allows for year-round tanning, regardless of weather conditions.

It can take up to 24 hours for your skin to fully show pigmentation and reddening after exposure. The FDA requires that there be at least 24 hours between tanning sessions.  

You can shower right after tanning, but you should avoid using shower gels, scrubs, shampoos, or loofahs for the first 24 hours. 

Your choice! Our tanning beds are clothing optional. However, you should wear FDA-approved eye protection.

Yes, absolutely.

Indoor tanning lotions also known as “accelerators” add nutrients your body needs to produce melanin. Our line of quality accelerators contain vitamin A, C, E, and botanicals that moisturize and increase blood flow, thus increasing oxygenation of melanin cells to help speed up the tanning process. UV rays reflect off of dry skin, the moisturizers in tanning accelerators help you absorb UV rays for better results. You will tan about twice as fast and keep your tan twice as long. 

Getting an exfoliation in before your session is recommended since it helps the tanning lotion to soak in better thus helping you to get a better all-around tan! Once your tanning session is completed, your skin is still tanning therefore it is ideal to wait a few hours after your session in order for you to reap the full benefits. 

Don’t forget a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and tan glowing!

NO, just as the word indicates outdoor products should ONLY be used outdoors, as they can cause a film on the acrylic. This actually inhibits the tanning process, rather than acting as an amplifying agent. There are many excellent indoor tanning products for that purpose. 

Moderate exposure to UVB helps develop a natural barrier in the skin to protect the body from excessive UV light. UVB stimulates the production of melanin, which then surrounds the core of cells to protect DNA. This melanin substance absorbs and/or scatters  radiation.

In addition to UVB thickens the epidermis (the top layer of skin), there by limiting the amount of UV light, which could penetrate the lower skin layers. If this base tan is not developed or a sunscreen is not used, sunburn can occur and the DNA of the skin cells may become damaged.  

Our face is the only part of our body  that does not produce it's own moisture. Our legs become a little dryer because  of clothing, hosiery etc.  Fact is that moist skin tans much better that dry  skin. Use a moisturizer at least twice daily. This is not only applicable to the  face and legs but all parts of your body. 

ABSOLUTELY! It is of utmost importance! Your skin can tan - your eyes can't. Federal law requires all tanning salons to supply customers with proper eye protection. This eyewear must meet federal government standards by blocking 99% of UVA and UVB rays. Closing the eyelids, wearing sunglasses, or using cotton balls over your eyes is not adequate protection as the UV rays will easily penetrate these things and continue into the eyes.

For answers to any question about a drug or product that you use, you should consult a physician.

When you are taking photosensitizing medication it is not recommended to tan outdoors or indoors. If you aren’t sure, ask your doctor to see a list of medications, which can greatly increase the risk of overexposure. 

Many common medications and even ingredients in food, shampoos & soaps can cause photo sensitivity which may lead to overexposure. If you are taking prescription medications please check with your physician regarding possible photo sensitivity. Perfumes and colognes containing Furocoumarins, compound from natural products such as plants and fruits, can cause your skin to become highly sensitive to UV light. Food and fruits that contain photosensitizing agents: celery, carrots, lime, coriander, parsley, fennel, dill, buttercup, mustard and fig.

Not everyone will experience a photosensitive reaction. Also, someone who experiences a photosensitive reaction once will NOT necessarily experience it again or every time.

Medications will NOT cause the same degree of skin reaction in all individuals.

Please consult your physician.