As the debate goes on regarding the use of sunbeds, between government regulators and tanning associations, salon owners should be aware that, regardless of the rights or wrongs of the debate, the fact that it is taking place at all could have an impact on the industry. Many people who work very hard to make a living in the tanning industry argue that the regulations are too stringent, and that the media is responsible for scare-mongering, and thereby damaging the industry. But business is business, and even if it is just scaremongering, they should be aware if people are actually turning away from sunbeds. The good news is that there are increasingly attractive and viable alternatives to ultraviolet tanning, which give businesses a chance to retain the custom of those who are changing their minds about sunbeds, but who still want to have a good looking tan. If this is to be achieved, they have to be sold on the arguments for alternative tanning techniques. So, what are the other benefits and advantages of the main alternative, airbrush spray tanning?

DHA spray tanning has several important selling points when compared to sunbeds. Its active ingredient, dihydroxyacetone, reacts with the amino acids on the surface of the skin, making the skin change to a darker hue. Once sprayed, the body maintains the tan for up to ten days, whereas sunbed tans need to be maintained and topped up with much higher regularity. Also, the effects of airbrush spray tanning are very fast; a tan will be fully visible within twelve hours of the DHA application, meaning that a good tan can be achieved at short notice. If a customer wanted to appear visibly more radiant for a special occasion in a few days’ time, for instance, a single sunbed session would not do the trick. Rather, they would have to use spray-on tan in order to get the result in time. Similarly, the fact that it doesn’t need topping up for ten days after the application is an advantage over sunbed tanning. To maintain a sunbed tan you probably need to have a session at least once per week. Having to visit the salon less often can free up a customer’s schedule.

DHA is well established and trusted by beauticians, and has been in use for cosmetics for over thirty years’ time. It is a safe and cost-effective method of artificial tanning. It has also improved a lot and tanning spray products are, on the whole, much better than they have been in the past. Customers will need to be convinced that the spray will not turn them the orange-like colour of stigmatising caricatures, and that the industry has made great progress in advancing the technology to achieve an authentic bronze tanning effect.

It seems likely that sunbeds will remain the first choice of tanning enthusiasts for years to come. But, in challenging economic times it is important to know if people are deciding against ultraviolet tanning. And if this is the case, salon owners need to ensure that they have understanding of the alternatives, such as airbrush spray tanning. This responsibility should be shared by tanning associations, but every business owner will benefit from an understanding of the benefits of diversification when it comes to the services that they offer. It seems that now might be a good time to try some promotions and marketing in an effort to change some of customers’ negative perceptions of spray tanning.