FAQs

Is there a link between Breast Cancer and Sunlight?

Latest Australian research shows there is ... read more

It is not appropriate to ban commercial UV tanning units.

New South Wales (Australia) is proposing to ban commercial sunbeds from December 2012. Public submissions are open until 26 Oct 2012. Read here our submission on why we say it's not appropriate to ban commercial sunbeds: 

Submission on NSW Proposed ban on sunbeds 2012 (12 KB)

How much vitamin D do you need?
Unfortuneately there is no simple answer to this. We recommend maintaining a light tan for your skintype year round. Based on my personal experience as a skin type 2B this is about one sunbed session per week for a bit more than the minimum time for that sunbed type. Darker skin people require more exposure to generate vitamin D.

Do sunbeds enable you to produce vitamin D? 
YES most definitely they do. As a general rule the newer sunbeds give more stable UV exposure, for this reason we'd recommend these over the older models. Check this out:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQx7DyYXjcw

Are sunbeds dangerous?

Any equipment used incorrectly or inappropriately can be dangerous. Sunbeds used appropriately are not dangerous and are even beneficial to your health.

Studies show that it is overexposure to UV light (via sunlight or sunbeds) that is 'dangerous', this includes sunburn and excessive repeated exposures, such as daily use of a sunbed. In our view using a sunbed to the point that you burn or daily is inappropriate and indeed is sunbed abuse. You should NEVER sunburn and you should follow your operators guidelines for an appropriate session time for your skin type. A general guideline on frequency is to use a sunbed every 2nd day to build up your tan over 3-4weeks then reduce this to once a week or fortnight to maintain your tan. You'll not only get a great looking tan you'll enjoy the benefits of having sufficient levels of vitamin D and all the health benefits that go with that.

Should I buy a sunbed from Trade Me or similar?

Our advice is know what you're buying. We've seen some people buy old dungers and other people get bargains. There are lots of old sunbeds out there now that are difficult (or impossible) to get parts for; probably they'd be fine for home users, check they are going and know if they are giving a tan. Sunbed tubes can look like they are working but no longer give out enough UV light to give you a tan. Also check out power supply requirements, some sunbeds require 3phase power. Another factor is the acrylics, we've seen some that have gone to their local plastics place to replace these; these don't let UV light through so do not work on a sunbed. Buyer Beware!

Can I use a sunbed when I’m pregnant?

Yes you can. During pregnancy your hormones will change; because of this you may not react the same as you would usually to UV exposure. Some women experience blotchiness in their tan, others become hyper-sensitive. We advise that you significantly reduce the amount of time you are on the sunbed and as per usual avoid over exposure. Enjoy!

You also need vitamin D during pregnancy. Here's a link to a short video shows why vitamin D is important during pregnancy: http://www.grassrootshealth.net/

Why do I have to wear goggles on a sunbed?

The potential risk of eye injury from unprotected UV exposure is serious and real. The skin on your body is thinnest around the eyes; UV light can easily penetrate this skin, causing burns, cataracts, poor night vision or possible permanent loss of sight. Closing your eyes is insufficient to prevent UV light penetration. You only have one set of eyes, take care of them, use goggles every time you use a sunbed.

We recommend purchasing your own goggles to avoid the risk of catching eye diseases from using goggles that have not been sterilised properly.

Will my moisturizer enhance my tan?

Moist skin tans best, daily moisturizing locks in moisture and enhances your tanning results. However be careful in choosing your moisturiser as not all are made equal. Often moisturizers contain mineral oil which will not only clog your pores, but also strip away your tan. All Supre and Hempz moisturizers will develop and maintain your healthy tan and skin.  Use tanning lotions while on a sunbed, and moisturize daily.

Are Hempz moisturisers safe to use with acrylic nails?

Yes, Hempz moisturisers do not contain lanolin so may be used with acrylic nails.