relaxing as the mind wanders and takes a mini vacation in the sun.

Tanning beds, the most popular tanning method used in salons, come in two designs, horizontal or vertical. They are fitted with long fluorescent bulbs that mimic the effects of the sun's UV spectrum. Ultraviolet light consists of two waves of energy,

UVA and UVB. Different tanning units use different combinations of these two tanning rays that are designed to tan with minimum risk of sunburn. The number of lamps in a tanning bed or booth depend on which level you need to tan. The vertical booth, although appears to be a little claustrophobic, is said to give a more even tan than the horizontal bed. Typically, the cost for an 8 to 20 minute session on the tanning bed runs anywhere between $3-12, with the best specials being offered between the months of January and June in most salons.

For those heeding the warnings of sun exposure and UV rays, sunless tanning has become an option in some salons. Airbrush Tanning, though a little more expensive, has become increasingly popular. This comparatively new tanning system utilizes an air compressor in which air from the compressor collects small quantities of tanning color and distributes a fine mist of the solution evenly over the skin through the end of an airbrush. The active ingredient in the airbrush tanning solution is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and bronzer. On coming onto

contact with the skin DHA reacts with amino acids of the skin and produces a natural pigment called melanoidin which bonds with the proteins contained in the skin cells. Single chamber sunless tanning booths are another option and work in more or less the same way but on a larger scale. Pistons in the compressor compress air forcing it out through the nozzle of an airbrush or spray head at a rapid rate.

Tanning tips include; when looking for a tanning salon in your area, especially for the first time, choose a reputable salon with trained staff that focus on safety, cleanliness and comfort and that will monitor you and closely follow your progress. Professional  tanning staff will advise on the safest level of UV exposure depending on the client's skin type and how to properly maintain a tan without

contracting a dangerous sunburn. A good salon will provide FDA compliant eye protection to protect the eyes from UV rays. It is also advised to protect the lips with lip balms or sunscreens. Keeping the skin well moisturized before and after each tanning session is highly

recommended. Choose a minimum dose of light and limit your exposure time and  if you are taking any medications, let one of the staff know as some medications can cause reactions with UV light.

The new year often draws attention to our self image. Extra weight gained over the Christmas season, lack of outdoor activities due to

the cold weather. Resolutions to diet and exercise usually follow as America tries to get back in shape, which is probably why the first few months of the year is the busiest season for health spas, fitness centers and tanning salons. No matter which method of tanning you use, whether it be natural sunlight, tanning bed or sunless tanning, make it as safe as you possibly can and have a very  happy, healthy new year.