Tanning trends: Time to perfect the summer tan

Tara Evans of Tanic Tan explains the spray tanning booth process to Hunter Dockins. Tanning salon officials say sunless tanning grows in popularity each year. If they haven't already, now is the time for individuals to perfect their summer tan. (David Jenkins)

SIKESTON -- Summer has officially arrived, which means there's still time for individuals to perfect their tan this season.

Whether choosing an indoor ultraviolet tan or a spray tan, local tanning salons offered tips for use of both methods.

"We stress the key to everything is moderation," said Pam Boyer, owner of Electric Rayz in Sikeston.

When it comes to indoor tanning, salon experts say moderation is the key, and it should be treated the same as when tanning outdoors. Start slowly and use protective wear for the eyes, they said. (David Jenkins)

She encouraged all clients to get educationally informed on the tanning methods they use. For example, individuals who are taking medications, such as those to treat blood pressure or antibiotics, may prohibit them from using a tanning bed.

"Those who tan in a bed need to start out very slow -- just like you would in the sun," Boyer said.

Boyer said she encourages everyone experiencing their tanning session for the first time of the season -- or the first time ever -- to only go about five or six minutes in the bed.

Tiffany Eastwood, owner of Tanic Tan in Sikeston, agreed.

"The No. 1 key to UV tanning is working your way up," Eastwood said, adding a good base tan is essential in achieving the best tan.

Boyer said precautions for using tanning beds are the same as tanning outdoors under the sun.

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