FAQs

Appointments

We strongly encourage booking an appointment in advance, to ensure you get your desired service at the time of your visit! We accept walk-ins when we can accommodate them.

Appointments can be made via our "Book an Appointment" tab.

We allow tan check-ins until half an hour before close.

New clients

All new clients are required to fill out a new client waiver and show a piece of government-issued photo ID prior to their first tan. ID does not need to be Ontario-specific, because we welcome travelers, however it does need to be government-issued photo ID that shows your photo, legal name, and birthdate. Paper "replacement ID" or photos of ID will not suffice, so please be sure you're bringing a physical copy of something like a license, passport, health card, status card, etc. Please see our New Client page to learn more.

We'd love to help you reach your tanning goals, so please feel free to call us ahead of your first appointment, so we can make recommendations on which services to book!

Purchasing Online vs In-Studio

All of our tanning packages are available for purchase online!

We don't sell individual UV sessions online, because sometimes clients are required to do a time-regulated session (if it's their first visit, their first time back in 90+ days, etc), so we make recommendations for single-session tan times in-studio!

We send emails to our clients to announce specials, holiday hours, offers, giveaways, exclusive sales and more. If you're not on our list, we highly recommend that you subscribe! We never send junk, just important details and exclusive specials.

Discount codes

If you have a valid discount code, it's as simple as using it at the online checkout. Should you have any problems with your code, please email info@solacetanning.com.

Product purchases

Our studio offers a number of products available to benefit you during your tanning sessions, such as eyewear, lotions, teeth-whitener, tan extenders, and more! Staff can help you pick products that will offer optimal results, while taking your regular lifestyle, skincare, sensitivities or allergies into consideration.

Refunds

We do not offer refunds on tanning packages. Should you wish to discuss your purchase with management, please send an email to manager@solacetanning.com.

I’ve never tanned indoors before

We welcome newbies! The knowledgeable staff at Solace will determine your exposure time based on your skin type and recommend a tanning schedule. It is very important for all customers to fill out our New Client Waiver prior to their first session. Please address any questions or concerns with our staff.

How long is one session?

A session can range from 2-15 minutes, depending on your skin type and the equipment that you choose to use. Many salons have different equipment and lamps - therefore you should follow the recommended exposure time and schedule made by our friendly and knowledgeable staff.

How much does a session cost?

Session costs will vary based on equipment and service! Our base Medium level price starts at $1.90 a minute, and raises as service and equipment levels advance. We offer single sessions priced by the minute, as well as Unlimited Tanning, Minute packages, and Point packages! See our Packages and Pricing pages for more details.

What should I wear to tan?

That’s up to you! Undress and tan as you wish, whether that be in swimwear, underwear, or fully nude! Just be sure to cover those parts that aren’t familiar with UV rays throughout your session with a towel if necessary, and ensure you're protecting fresh tattoos, scars, or sunspots with SPF or bandages.

How long before I start seeing results?

Most people start seeing results by their second or third visit. A tan does not happen with a single session - you need to build a base tan. The Golden Rule of Smart Tanning is simple: Don't EVER sunburn. To maximize your tanning sessions we advise you to purchase a quality indoor tanning lotion. Indoor lotions supply the skin with essential nutrients necessary for a tan and help moisturize the skin to keep it looking young and healthy. Tanning ONCE with a lotion will give you better results than tanning TWICE without, so if you're not seeing colour development as quickly as you'd like, chat with our staff about products available for accelerated results.

How often am I allowed to tan?

A minimum of 24-hours is required between sessions based on regulations in Ontario (Skin Cancer Prevention Act. [2014]), however, it is recommended that a 48-hour time period should pass between tanning sessions. Pigmentation and/or over-exposure may not be fully visible for 12-24 hours after your original session. Two tanning sessions within this 24-hour period could result in an unintentional burn. Do not tan outdoors on the same days that you tan indoors and do not tan at more than one salon in the same day. Over-exposure causes skin damage and may lead to premature aging and skin cancer.

Why is it important to build a base tan?

Moderate exposure to UVB rays help develop a natural barrier in the skin to protect the body from excessive UV light. UVB rays stimulate the production of melanin, which absorbs and scatters radiation to thicken the epidermis (the top skin layer), thereby limiting the amount of UV light. If this photo-protection (base tan) is not developed or a sunscreen is not used, sunburn can occur and the DNA of the skin cells may become very damaged. Not building a base tan or tanning too much too often can cause your skin to thicken and actually make it harder to achieve the tan that you desire.

Why must protective eyewear be worn while tanning indoors?

The goggles that you wear while tanning indoors are very important. Your eyelids alone offer almost no protection against UV light, which can damage the cornea and retina and lead to cataracts. Not using proper eye protection may also result in short term effects such as tired, itchy eyes, headaches and loss of night vision. No one should ever be in a tanning bed/booth without approved eye protection. Buy your own pair to avoid the risk of infections like pink-eye which are easily transmitted. Don't take chances with your eyes.

Should I tan indoors/outdoors if I have received laser eye surgery?

Consult your Optometrists and/or Surgeon prior to UV exposure. They typically advise you to wait anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on the procedure. How do I prevent "raccoon eyes"? Adjusting your eyewear once in a while during your tanning session will help reduce the demarcation of tanned to non-tanned skin. You can make this adjustment by gently sliding your eyewear to a new position. You should never lift the eyewear off of your eyes during adjustment.

Why does a tan disappear?

A tan disappears because the top layer of your skin replaces all of its cells every 28-30 days. Keeping your skin moisturized will prolong a tan; however a true "base tan" can be maintained only by repeated exposure to UV light. Certain products may also decrease the life of a tan, such as lotions and body washes that have sulfates and certain mineral oils.

I am pregnant. Can I tan indoors?

There is no current scientific and/or biological reason why a pregnant woman cannot tan indoors or outdoors. In fact, some researchers believe the production of vitamin D caused by exposure to UVB may be beneficial to both the mother and fetus. However, there is some concern that the heat build-up that occurs when tanning indoors or outdoors may adversely affect some pregnant women, just as a sauna or jacuzzi might. UV rays do not penetrate deep enough to affect the baby. Most of our beds are equipped with A/C and will keep your body heat regulated and you will be comfortable. We require pregnant women to consult their physician before tanning at Solace.

How do I protect a fresh tattoo?

It is important not to expose a fresh tattoo to sunlight or indoor tanning equipment while the tattoo is still healing, since chemicals sensitive to UV exposure have been injected into the skin. Cover the tattooed area completely or don’t tan until the skin has healed. After the skin has healed the chemicals have lost their sensitivity to UV, but continue to take moderate protective measures. Tattoos will continue to lose their brilliancy with exposure to UV light, whether it comes from indoors or from outdoors.

Should I protect fresh scars?

Scars are a natural part of the skin's healing process, and they require extra care because scar tissue is very sensitive. This sensitivity makes it very easy for scars to get sunburned, which can cause them to turn brown and become more noticeable. The best thing you can do to protect a scar from UV rays is to keep it covered with clothing or a bandage. If you have a facial scar that's difficult to cover, liberally apply sunscreen -- with a sun protection factor of at least 15 -- to the area before going outside or apply a cream specially formulated for scars such a silicone SPF cream.

Does heat matter?

No, the temperature of the tanning unit does not play a part in tanning results. You will not receive a better tan if it is scorching hot or average to the touch. Tanning in equipment that is cooler or has stronger fans may actually help improve your session, as the tan will have better oxygenation, and your product will not be sweat off.

Why should I use a tanning lotion?

Many people use indoor tanning products to maximize their tanning experience. The following are reasons why consumers enjoy using tanning lotions: They supply the skin with essential nutrients necessary for a tan and help moisturize the skin to keep it looking young and healthy. Moisturized skin tans more quickly and efficiently than dry skin, resulting in a better tan in fewer visits. Indoor tanning products help counteract the drying effects of heat and light associated with tanning (moisturized skin is healthier). Active ingredients supplement the skin's cells with the same proteins that enhance the tanning process naturally. Specially formulated indoor tanning lotions help your tan last by retaining ultraviolet induced melanin longer. The latest lotion technology includes antioxidants that help prevent fine lines and wrinkles.

We have a great selection of the best indoor tanning lotions. Ranging from practical and affordable to luxurious and high-end. Currently, clients that use tingle/heat complex lotions may only use them in stand-up equipment. Oils are not acceptable in any tanning equipment, and are not permitted at Solace.

What causes the scent that I smell after tanning?

In one word, “melanin” is the cause. Ultraviolet light in the UVA range causes melanin to enlarge and turn brown. During the process, dermatologists say a chemical reaction takes place. A natural side effect of the reaction is the aroma. This occurrence is normal whether you've been tanning inside or outside. Some tanning lotions have been designed to minimize or prevent the odour from occurring, but ultimately a shower will remove the odour.

Is indoor tanning the same as tanning outdoors in the sun?

Yes and no. The process of tanning is the same. Skin is tanned by UV rays. The main difference, however, is that a person cannot control the amount of UV rays that they are exposed to while outside due to changes in the earth’s atmosphere and the environment. Is tanning indoors safer than outdoors in the sun? Indoor tanning is a controlled environment, which allows you to slowly build a gradual tan, to develop pigmentation and increase your natural SPF - thus providing a safer environment. The external factors of tanning in the sun, such as time of year and day, altitude, cloud coverage, pollutants, reflective surfaces, etc. are harder to control or predict - which increases your risk of overexposure. If a person cannot tan in the sun, can he/she tan indoors? Normally, a person tans indoors only as well as he/she is able to tan outdoors. Yet, those fair-skinned people who generally cannot tolerate the uncontrolled rays of the sun often achieve some color when tanning indoors. This can be attributed to a different spectral output as well as carefully timed tanning sessions in a controlled tanning environment. Skin type, heredity, and individual photosensitivity all determine who will have success tanning indoors.

Should I remove my contact lenses prior to tanning?

When the eyes are kept closed and proper protective eyewear worn, UV light is blocked from penetrating the eye or lens. However, the heat generated by indoor tanning equipment could cause the eye to dry a bit, thereby making the lens uncomfortable. Just as one should moisturize the skin after tanning, you may also use eye drops recommended by your optometrist to remedy dryness.

My face and legs don't tan very well. What should I do?

Moisturized skin tans far better than dry skin! Our face is the only part of our body that does not produce its own moisture. Try using an indoor tanning lotion specially designed for your face. Legs are naturally more dry and exfoliated frequently because of clothing, hosiery etc. Legs also have less microcirculation than the rest of the body, which makes it without sulfated in it at least twice daily, and consider using a leg-specific tanning product.

Why do some dermatologists warn people against UV exposure?

While some dermatologists may advocate total avoidance of all sun exposure, the media seems to quote only those who do. Many dermatologists and others from the medical community have acknowledged the need for moderate sun exposure, while advocating the use of sunscreens while outdoors in an uncontrolled environment. UV exposure can be beneficial for many reasons as long as over-exposure doesn’t occur. For more information visit www.tanningtruth.com. Can tanning cause skin cancer? Excessive exposure to any UV light source may lead to skin damage, which may cause skin cancer. While there has been no comprehensive study on the causes of skin cancer, three high risk groups have been identified: 1) severe sunburns at a young age 2) history of skin cancer in the family and 3) very fair skin, red hair, freckles or moles. If you fall into one or more of these groups, any UV light exposure should be treated with even greater caution. The fact is, most forms of skin cancer are treatable. Even melanoma, which accounts for only 5% of all skin cancer, is 90% treatable if caught in its early stages. Early diagnosis is essential. It is recommended that all UV exposure be moderate.

May people who have had skin cancer tan indoors?

No, not at Solace Tanning Studios. It is strongly recommended that those who have suffered skin cancer avoid tanning either indoors or outdoors. Such people may be genetically predisposed to contract skin cancer or be unusually susceptible to it. Any exposure may trigger another outbreak.

What is a photosensitizing agent?

Photosensitivity is defined as a chemically induced change in the skin that makes an individual unusually sensitive to light. Diseases, allergies, cosmetics or medications may cause photosensitivity. Medications such as psoralen, diuretics, birth control pills, tranquilizers, antibiotics and high blood pressure medicine may also affect one's photosensitivity. Certain substances such as citrus fruits, celery, cosmetics and soaps can also increase photosensitivity. Harsh disinfectants, some lotions and sunscreens may also cause sensitizing reactions. If you are unsure if your medication is a photosensitizing agent, consult your pharmacist. Please review our list of photosensitizing agents at reception prior to tanning.

How does a photosensitizing agent affect me while exposed to UV rays?

Photosensitizing agents can increase your chance of sunburn as well as negative reactions to UV exposure such as: rashes, hives, swelling, stinging, etc.

What does Smart Tanning mean?

To tan smart is to build up your tan in a controlled and gradual manner. This gives your body a natural tan without burning, giving pigment a chance to develop and increasing your protection to UV light. It may take longer but you reduce the risk of over exposure and skin damage. Gradual exposure utilizing the advice of our knowledgeable staff will not only build a better tan but will prevent the negative aspects of over exposure.

What causes white spots?

There are several reasons why white spots become noticeable on the body once the tanning process begins: Patches of skin, which do not tan, could be the result of genetic determination. White spots could also appear due to the presence of a fungus, which lives on the skin's surface. While the fungus is harmless, it doesn’t absorb UV light, which would normally penetrate the skin. This fungus did not appear as a result of tanning; it merely becomes noticeable once tanning occurs. It can be remedied though the use of prescription drugs or some other topical lotions. White patches of skin, which are often prominent on the shoulder blades and just above the buttocks, can be caused by the pressure from the body as it reclines on a hard tanning bed surface. This pressure inhibits the flow of blood through that area of skin. Since blood carries oxygen, which is essential to the tanning process, this area does not tan. Periodic body shifting during tanning will make these patches disappear. Certain medications can react unfavorably with exposure to UV light. For example, birth control pills can cause blotches and uneven pigmentation of the skin.

Why do some people itch after tanning indoors?

Itching and/or rashes may be linked to several unrelated causes. Some people are naturally photosensitive to UV exposure while others are susceptible to heat rashes, a cause totally unrelated to UV light. Certain chemicals or ingredients found in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, and even the acrylic cleaner might cause itching. Customers should be advised to tan with the skin as clean as possible. If discontinued use of a suspected product does not inhibit the rash, discontinue any exposure to UV light and consult your physician. Heat rash, or tanner's itch, may also indicate that the light and heat generated by tanning bulbs or the sun have dried your skin, especially in previously unexposed areas. Discontinue tanning for a few days, then slowly build your time allowing melanin production to increase. For temporary relief try an unscented emollient cream. If symptoms persist, discontinue tanning and consult your doctor.

Can tanning cure acne?

Phototherapy (or use of UV light) has been effective in easing the skin problems common to this condition. However, there are also many drugs, including tetracycline and Retin-A, widely used for the treatment of acne that can render the skin photosensitive. Therefore, one should avoid UV exposure when medicated. Treatment of acne should be administered by a qualified physician.

Does UV exposure help treat depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

There exists a growing body of scientific evidence, which indicates that some people actually require more light exposure in order to function properly. Exposure to bright light, such as that emitted by the mid-day summer sun, causes the brain to suppress the release of the hormone melatonin. Melatonin acts as a depressant in the body if generated during the daytime. Thus, when affected people are exposed to longer hours of bright light, they feel happier, euphoric and more able to enjoy life. Bright light sources emitting only visible light are now frequently used to successfully treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Sub-syndromal Seasonal Affective Disorder (SSAD).

Does indoor tanning aid in the treatment of osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by frequent bending and/or breaking of the bones due to a lack of sufficient calcium. Adequate calcium intake is essential for the development of strong bones and teeth. It is widely recognized that the body in the intestine does not absorb calcium unless vitamin D3 is present. Vitamin D3 is often referred to as the "sunshine" vitamin because it is produced in the skin upon exposure to UVB rays. Some studies show that indoor tanning lamps (which emit a certain amount of UVB) may initiate the production of vitamin D3 which in turn aids in calcium absorption.