What are UVA and UVB ?

Very simply, UVA = bronzing, UVB = reddening

Tanning takes place in the skin's outermost layer, the epidermis. The epidermis has unique cells called melanocytes that, when stimulated with ultraviolet light, use tyrosine (an amino acid) to produce melanin. Melanin is the dark pigment found in the retina, hair and skin (excluding the lips, soles of feet, and palms of hands). It is also melanin that is responsible for the tanned, bronze look tanners seek to achieve.

When stimulated by the shorter waves of UVB light, the melanocytes produce melanin. The melanin then moves up through the epidermis and is absorbed by other skin cells. When exposed to longer waves of UVA light, the melanin oxidizes or darkens, producing a tan.

In short, UVB synthesizes pigment, while UVA ensures their oxidation. Together, the two create a tan. Since cells in the epidermis are constantly reproducing and pushing older cells upward, those cells containing oxidized melanin will eventually be shed, causing the tan to fade.

Skin Type Information

Skin Type (examples): Skin Reaction (examples):
1. Fair Skin or White Skin. Tans little or not at all: Burns Easily: Then Peels.
2. Average Caucasian. Burns Moderately: Gains Average Tan.
3. People With Light or Brown Skin. Burns Minimally: Gains Average Tan.
4. Brown or Dark Skinned People. Rarely Burns and Tans Easily


Consult your owner's manual that came with your tanning unit, for further information regarding: Skin Type, Recommended Exposure Schedules, and TE & MED Times.