Tanning

Before you jump into your tanning bed in Overland Park, KS check out these interesting facts about tanning:

1. Tanning combines a careful balance of UVA and UVB rays. These are essential in penetrating the skin to the lowest layer of the epidermis and creating the deepest color of brown. Eventually as the skin sloughs off, these lower layers are brought to the surface, revealing that gorgeous brown color you desire.
2. Tan wasn't always in. While now we are a society constantly seeking that perfectly tan complexion, it wasn't always that way. In fact, in some cultures, like ancient Rome, women used to chalk their faces in order to make them look paler. During the Elizabethan era, pale skin indicated aristocracy. Tan skin signified that the person had been in the sun working.
3. Heliotherapy is the treatment of sun. Diseases such as tuberculosis were sometimes treated with sun lamps. Those who were sick would achieve a healthy tan in hopes that the vitamin D would help their immune systems to beat the sickness.
4. Chanel made the tan a fashion statement. In 1923, Coco Chanel triggered a fashion frenzy after letting herself tan during a vacation. The trend quickly caught on and soon every model on the runway was being bronzed for the catwalk.
5. Tanning used to be achieved with simple household items. During the 1970's, many women slathered baby oil on their skin and lay in the sun throughout the hot summer days. Some even used vegetable oil or shortening. Using a sheet of tinfoil to reflect the rays of the sun, they would lay in the sun for hours during the summer months in order to achieve the perfect tan.
6. Elizabeth Taylor started the bronzing trend. During the mid-20th century, Max Factor first created a brown tinted powder. It began to be used in Hollywood and on movie sets. Elizabeth Taylor used a large amount to make her skin appear darker during her role as Cleopatra. Once this happened, women all over the world began using bronzer to achieve a perfect glow.
7. Modern day tanning has come a long way. There are now sun supplements that increase the body's production of melanin, which is the pigment that creates tanned skin. While tanning beds are still available, spray tans are now extremely popular. These sun-free tans offer a quick way to darken the hue of your skin without having to use a tanning bed.
8. It's estimated that over 30 million people use tanning beds every year in the United States. Over 70% of these tanners are women, with the majority being ages 16-29.
9. Around 1 million people use tanning salons every day.
10. Tanning can have health benefits. It is thought that exposure to the sun can help to maintain diabetes. It's also been shown to reduce the symptoms of depression and in some cases, eliminate it completely. It can also prevent high blood pressure and help to increase the immune system.

While tan skin may have not always been in style, it's one trend that is here to stay. Whether you choose to use a tanning bed in Overland Park, KS or opt for a beautiful spray tan, your skin will look gorgeous, bronzed, and glowing all year long!

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