Q. I'm on prescription medications. Will this interfere with tanning?

A. It might. Some prescription drugs can make your skin photosensitive — check the medication chart at the TG Tanning front desk to see whether your meds are listed. If they are, talk with your physician before you start tanning.

Q. What should I wear during a tanning session?

A. TG Tanning's rooms are all private, so you can wear as much, or as little, as you like: a bathing suit, your underwear, or — for an even, allover tan — nothing at all.

But remember to take off your wristwatch and jewelry, and even any Band-Aids or anything else that would block the tanning rays, or you'll end up with some unexpected patterns on your skin.

One thing you must wear: eye protection. Even with your eyes closed, the direct UV rays can damage your eyes. (TG Tanning supplies goggles to wear during your session.)

Q. I hate wearing goggles, or even sunglasses. Can I choose not to wear eye protection?

A. Not a chance. Ohio law — Ohio Revised Code section 4713.08, paragraph 16 (b) — says we must require them. So when your session is over, you'll still be able to see — and that's good, because we want you to find your way back!

Q. How long should my first tanning session be?

A. Exposure times are set by the tanning bed manufacturers and the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology. Your initial exposure will be brief, normally 5 to 7 minutes. Subsequent sessions may increase in increments of 1 to 3 minutes each session.

Q. How often can I safely tan?

A. Under regulations from the State of Ohio, no one may tan more than one time in a twenty-four hour period. If your skin is pink or dry and itchy, or you develop a rash, you should wait another twenty-four hours or until the reaction disappears before you resume tanning.

Q. How should I prepare my skin for my first session?

A. The first thing you should do is to check the medication chart at the TG Tanning front desk. If you're taking any meds listed on that chart, talk to your physician before you start tanning. (Yes, we did tell you that before, but we want to stress its importance.)

You can help yourself get an even tan by exfoliating shortly before your tanning session, and then moisturizing. Applying a good quality tanning lotion — immediately before your session or, better still, an hour or two beforehand — will help you get the most out of the session.

Q. Should I do anything after my session to protect my tan?

A. Keep your skin moisturized with an after-tan moisturizer or your regular body lotion. Twice-daily applications, once in the morning and again before bed, will keep your skin healthier and make your tan last longer.