In a wave of change, tanning salons are evolving beyond mere bronze skin, embracing a holistic approach to health and wellness. Zoe Routh, a 22-year-old college student from Oklahoma, epitomises this shift. Avoiding tanning beds due to her family’s history with skin cancer, she frequents her salon for its rejuvenating spa services, including dry sauna pods and red light therapy booths.
Prompted by mounting apprehension regarding UV exposure, salon owners are rekindling their brand identity. They now focus on wellness offerings like red light therapy, which claims to clear skin and diminish wrinkles. With the U.S. wellness market projected at approximately $480 billion by 2024, industry leaders see this as pivotal for survival.
Once boasting nearly 85,000 locations in 2011, the tanning industry has faced decline, largely due to government regulations and rising awareness about skin cancer risks. With only about 21,000 establishments left, experts cite spa services as a critical remedy to reignite client interest. Companies like Palm Beach Tan are embracing self-care trends, installing cutting-edge equipment across their franchises.
These salons aim to reflect their new identities by rebranding. Palm Beach Tan is becoming “Palm Beach Beauty and Tan,” attracting clientele specifically for wellness treatments. The transformation is evident—about one-third of new visitors are exploring wellness options.
In a notable shift, the customer demographic is diversifying, welcoming a broader mix of patrons. As younger generations steer away from traditional tanning, salons must cater to new demands. Experts like Sherry Pagoto stress the necessity for these businesses to adapt and innovate to remain appealing.
Despite the promising direction towards wellness, concerns linger. Pagoto worries that offering wellness options alongside tanning beds could mislead customers, especially regarding skin health risks linked to UV exposure. Health professionals affirm that tanning beds remain connected to skin damage, emphasising informed choices.
Red light therapy is gaining traction, partly for its potential benefits, such as improving acne and reducing wrinkles. While the current studies are promising, dermatologists advise caution and highlight the need for further research to fully understand its effects. Those with certain conditions should consult medical professionals before indulging in this therapy.
Tanning salons are transforming to offer health and wellness services, responding to safety concerns around UV exposure. With a focus on treatments like red light therapy, they aim to broaden their clientele amid declining numbers. Companies like Palm Beach Tan are rebranding to reflect these changes, while experts caution about potential misperceptions regarding health claims. Continued research on new therapies is essential, as consumer education remains key.
Tanning salons are pushing the boundaries of their traditional roles by incorporating health and wellness services amid rising awareness of skin cancer risks. The strategic rebranding towards ‘sun spas’ and the introduction of innovative treatments like red light therapy signify a vital shift in the industry. Moving forward, the challenge lies in ensuring wellness claims are authentic, as the duality of offering tanning beds alongside health services remains contentious. Education around safe practices will be crucial in guiding consumers toward informed choices.
Original Source: www.usatoday.com
