sun-is-life-march-2026

SUN & WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Editor-in-Chief

Joe Schuster

Art Director

Dave Villafañe

Accounting/Circulation

Quinn Cooper

Senior Account Executive

Quinn Cooper

Executive Director

Aliesha Colvin

Contributing Writers

Kristin Lee Smithers, CLT

Sterling Birdsong

Steven Daffer

How To Reach Us

2741 E Belt Line Rd, Suite 113 Carrollton, Texas 75006

Interested In Advertising?

Contact quinn@sunislife.com

March 2026 | Volume 2 | Issue 3

Sun Is Life ISSN 2329-8545 (USPS 023-149) is published monthly by Glo Tanning Inc., 2741 E Belt Line Rd Apt 113, Carrollton, TX 75006. Periodicals postage is paid at Flint, MI and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Sun Is Life, 12335 N Rockwell Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73142. To authors, photographers and people featured in this publication: All materials, articles, reports and photos published in this publication are the property of Sun Is Life Magazine and cannot be used without written permission. The opinions and conclusions recited herein are those of the respective authors and not of Sun Is Life Magazine. Sun Is Life Magazine is not responsible for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photos or other materials. Every effort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by sufficient first-class postage, but the publisher will not be responsible for loss of any such material.

Copyright© 2026. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.

Marching Forward

March can blow in a wind of change, “in like a lion, out like a lamb”. It marks a time when much of the country begins to emerge from the darkness of shorter daylight in the winter months. Wildlife seems more active, trees begin to bud and the grass begins to turn greener, spirits seem higher. The prospect of the warmer summer months feel within reach. It’s a great time of year and it happens every year. But let’s go back a few years. Let’s go back about 125 years and take a look at the US. The Wright brothers took off in flight in Kitty Hawk, NC and the Ford Motor Company in 1903. Two events that would dramatically reshape travel and daily life. The age of Industrialism was in full swing. Mass immigration from Europe arrived with the prospects of a better life. The population swelled to over 100 million. Yet the working environment for many was very poor, unstable and in some cases, unsafe. Many factories were made up of women working tough jobs over long hours for low wages in these conditions. The Garment Workers Strike of 1909 was a turning point. Made up mostly of women, it was one of the largest strikes in the history of the US. Consistenting of many immigrant women and supported by middle class “suffragists”, it was a turning point that created a powerful alliance between labor reform and women’s rights. That period was the origin of National Women’s Day in our country, highlighting women’s achievements, gender equality, and ongoing social issues. In 1910, the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen proposed an annual International Women’s Day. 1978 saw a school district in Santa Rosa, California, initiate “Women’s History Week” to align with International Women’s Day on March 8. Then in 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. It was soon followed in 1987 by Congress passing legislation designating March as National Women’s History Month. Currently, National Women’s Day is celebrated annually across the country through events, school programs, community gatherings, and advocacy campaigns. Take a look around in our wellness industry. It’s filled with women that are leaders and entrepreneurs dealing with life’s complexities on a daily basis and persevere, much like the diligence of our own industry. Take a moment on March 8th and celebrate not only those that you’ve read about, but those that you may interact with on a daily basis. This month covers the sunless tanning industry and the number of women at the forefront of it. It should come as no surprise.

Cheers!

All the best,

Joe Schuster Editor-in-Chief

From the innovators behind the most trusted spray technology in the industry comes a new standard in whole-body skincare. A step-by-step skincare system designed to cleanse, tone, and hydrate skin supporting whole-body skin wellness in between WellFit sessions.

Customizable treatments for every body, every tone and every lifestyle

Smart technology guides clients through easy sessions

Automated mixing system helps to reduce waste and ensures consistent sprays

Effortless full-body application in minutes

Warm, comfortable experience

Automatic washdown cycle for easy maintenance

DEPARTMENT

ABOUT THE COVER

In celebration of National Spray Tanning Day and International Women’s Day, our cover honors the strength, diversity, and radiance of women everywhere. Each shade tells a story of confidence and individuality—where beauty is powered by science, inclusivity leads the way, and every woman’s glow becomes a statement of empowerment.

The Women Who Hold The Sun

An Ode to the Backbone of the Tanning Industry

BY ALIESHA COLVIN

March i s a month of transition. The days stretch longer, the sun lingers higher, and with International Women’s Day arriving in early March, it offers a natural pause. A moment to look at where the tanning and wellness industry is going and to acknowledge who has carried it forward all along.

Because if there is one undeniable truth about this industry, it is this: women have always been its backbone.

For much of the industry’s history, leadership followed a familiar structure. Men often occupied executive roles, founding companies, holding CEO titles, and steering large-scale decisions, while women filled the operational core. They worked the salon floors, ran schedules, trained staff, educated clients, managed relationships, and ensured that businesses functioned day in and day out.

This structure was not unique to tanning, but it shaped the industry for decades. Women were essential to its success, yet their work was often categorized as “support” rather than leadership, even as businesses relied on their expertise, consistency, and emotional intelligence to survive.

And still, women showed up.

They showed up early and stayed late. They carried institutional knowledge, built systems, trained teams, and adapted as services evolved. Over time, that lived experience became something powerful: confidence rooted in competence.

For Gabrielle Dietz, franchise owner of Glo Tanning, leadership was a natural extension of years spent immersed in the operational side of the business.

“Being in the industry since I was a teenager and watching it evolve gave me the confidence to trust myself as a leader, and now an owner,” Dietz shares. “I knew I could make choices that created real impact because I understood the business from the ground up. All of my knowledge came from the women who supported me early on in my journey, like my bestie, Diana Zajicek.”

As the industry evolved, technology advanced and offerings expanded, women were often the first to learn, adapt, and educate both teams and clients. That hands-on understanding laid the foundation for a visible shift over the last decade: women stepping into ownership, executive leadership, and decision-making roles.

“Women drive so much of this industry,” Dietz explains. “They’re not just the face of it. They’ve built the systems and teams that keep everything running behind the scenes.”

This evolution has moved the industry forward in more than one meaningful way. According to Lauren Hall of INNOVE Beauty and Wellness, women are shaping the future of tanning and wellness by redefining what leadership can look like.

“When women have a seat at the table, decisions tend to balance profitability with purpose,” Hall says, “ensuring the industry evolves in a way that builds trust, prioritizes safety, and meets clients where they are.”

Hall also notes that women bring a unique perspective to leadership because they often understand the consumer firsthand. Their influence is visible not only in ownership and strategy, but in education, product development, brand storytelling,

and community building. Increasingly, women are driving conversations around holistic wellness—not just results, but responsibility, accessibility, and long-term client care.

“Women bring a deep understanding of the consumer because they often are the consumer,” Hall points out. “Their voices matter at the decision-making level because they naturally lead with empathy, longterm thinking, and accountability.”

At the same time women step into these expanded roles, they remain the heart of the client experience.

For Kristin Smithers, owner of Sunny Shores, the work women do in creating safe and empowering spaces is intentional and deeply rooted in lived experience.

“There is so much emotional labor and intentional leadership behind creating safe, welcoming spaces, and that work is often led by women,” Smithers remarks. “We know the life and story behind each customer. We are there for the celebrations, the stress, the health journeys, the heartbreaks, wins, and even setbacks.”

Women are often the ones setting the tone the moment someone walks through the door. They read the room instinctively, noticing anxiety, vulnerability, or overwhelm, and responding with care. This allows them to create boundaries that are firm yet compassionate, providing safety that is non-negotiable without ever making a client feel judged.

“This empowerment isn’t accidental,” Smithers adds. “It comes from lived experience, from constantly supporting, educating, and protecting others.”

Smithers emphasizes that in tanning and wellness, connection is not secondary—it is foundational.

“We are never just a store,” Smithers explains. “We become part of people’s routines, and those routines turn into real relationships.”

Clients return not only for services, but for trust. They share milestones, health journeys, stress, and celebration. Sometimes, the salon “becomes the calm” in an otherwise overwhelming schedule.

“When people feel seen, heard, and supported, they trust the education, follow safety guidance, and get better results,” Smithers says.

That trust extends beyond clients and into leadership itself. Mentorship, collaboration, and shared knowledge have become defining strengths of women-led spaces.

“The women I’ve learned from still guide me,” Smithers shares. “They taught me that strength and softness can exist at the same time. That I can hold high standards without losing compassion, and that I can build something successful while still being a safe space for others.”

This philosophy is shaping the future of the industry. Lauren Hall notes that women are also leading innovation through education rather than intimidation.

“Women drive innovation not just

by creating what’s new,” she says, “but by ensuring it’s accessible, understood, and responsibly implemented for all.”

By asking “why” before “what,” women translate science and technology into real-world understanding. They empower teams, build confidence in clients, and elevate professionalism across the industry, creating loyalty rooted in trust rather than trend.

Today, a few things remain clear. Women in tanning and wellness are proving that leadership does not require sacrificing compassion. That businesses can grow while remaining safe spaces. That success can be strategic, ethical, and human all at once.

International Women’s Day is not simply a celebration. It is an acknowledgment of progress and a reminder of what is possible when women are trusted, supported, and heard.

This March, we honor the women who hold the sun.

The ones who open the doors. The ones who educate, innovate, and protect.

The ones who have always carried this industry and are now shaping where it goes next.

The tanning and wellness industry shines because of women.

And as more women take their rightful seats at the table, its future grows even brighter.

Megan Allen 7 Questions With

BY STAFF WRITER

Megan Allen, owner of Beyond Bronze Sun Studio & Spa in Ocala, Florida, is the definition of an operator who can turn a big promo into real, measurable revenue. But her success started long before the marketing calendar.

Beyond Bronze was born out of equal parts frustration and experience. After moving to Ocala in 2014, Megan was consistently disappointed by the lack of quality tanning and wellness options. Following one especially underwhelming visit, she went home and told her mom, “We could do this so much better.” With her parents’ background as franchise owners of multiple tanning salons in Oregon, that conversation quickly became a plan, and Beyond Bronze was created by Megan and her mom.

When the studio opened, Megan was just 19 and intentionally

stepped into management first, giving herself the time to learn the industry and master what it takes to run a successful business. By 2019, at 24, she officially became co-owner alongside her sister, helping lead Beyond Bronze into its next chapter.

Now celebrating 10 years in business, Beyond Bronze has grown into more than a tanning studio. It is a space built on elevated service, wellness, and community, rooted in family, passion, and a commitment to raising the standard of the tanning experience.

In this feature, Megan

pulls back the curtain on how she plans and executes sales events with intention, from long-lead strategy and cohesive branding to tiered offers, staff alignment, and a content workflow built to convert. If you have ever wondered why some promos create a rush of “freebie traffic” while others build lasting momentum, Megan’s approach shows what it looks like when marketing, operations, and leadership all work together.

You’re known for turning big sales events into real revenue, not just hype. Walk us through one promo from start to finish:

“So here’s the thing I see a lot of salon owners making a mistake in, they plan a big sale one week before and then wonder why it flops. You need to plan a year in advance, or at least six months.

First, decide what month you want and why, then decide if you want a theme. Once you decide that, it’s time to design. I like everything cohesive so my digital footprint matches my physical.

I’ll give you a real example. I started an event called Bronzechella. I used to do Free Tan Days, but over time the greed went up and the sales went down. People came in only for free services and didn’t want to be sold to. It attracted the wrong crowd and staff morale was low. I needed something sales-focused, fun, and engaging for staff and customers.

Bronzechella is a play off Coachella, desert and music festival vibes, bright colors. I marketed it as ‘the ultimate glow festival’ with two stages, UV and Wellness. The sale was the main thing. I still mentioned free tans and spa services, but it wasn’t the headline.

Next is timing. For my salon, if a sales event

runs longer than three days, it loses hype and people put it off. Since this was year one, I picked June 4th to 6th, 2025 because June is when my busy season starts to die, and I wanted to boost traffic heading into slower months. I also plan around my biggest sale, Pink Wednesday in November, so spacing matters.

To lock your dates, check your reports. Hold the event on your highest foot-traffic days. Everyone suggests weekends, but weekends are my slowest, so I moved Bronzechella to Wednesday through Friday, early in the month because my customers spend more then.

Then came specials. My goal was to keep bodies coming through slow months, so I built deals that lasted and trained staff to push the longterm lock-in. I used three tiers, Non-autopay, Autopay, and VIP. VIP was new for me and it did so well I brought it to Pink Wednesday too, now it’s permanent.

The anchor offer was buy three months, get two months free, expiring right before Pink Wednesday. I also offered a smaller month-to-month option, but not as good on purpose, because I wanted people choosing the longterm deal. Autopay got stronger discounts because they’re loyal. VIP unlocked the best lotion discounts, early access, exclusives, a mystery box, and access to all tier specials. My customers are obsessed with mystery boxes, so that alone sold it. It was limited quantity, so it created FOMO (Fear Of Missing

Out). First time I priced it at $9.99, then for Pink Wednesday I priced it at $20, and I recommend $20.

Marketing was simple.

How long I teased it, three weeks. If you sponsor on Facebook, it takes about a week to really start being pushed.

What I posted, a teaser video with the date, the biggest hooks, and VIP. I sponsored it with a detailed caption and ran it until the day before. During the three weeks, staff made TikToks and Reels hyping it up. Seven days out, I dropped the sale graphics.

I also matched it in-store, light décor ahead of time, full décor the night before, staff shirts, website refresh, email blast, and a staff meeting so everyone knew the deals and how to sell them. This was our first year doing Bronzechella and we doubled our sales from Free Tan Days with Bronzechella.”

What are your “nonnegotiables” for promo design that actually converts?

“Keep it simple and legible. Your graphic is there to stop the scroll. The biggest mistake I see salons make is cramming too much, bad fonts, not

using stroke correctly, or colors clashing with the background.

Your graphic should be the punch line, your caption is the details. If it looks like a paragraph and a product pile, people scroll.

A good graphic is something like ‘50% off all tanning lotions!’ Then feature one to three top shelf lotions so the deal stands out. Two fonts max, one bold header, one simple body font.”

Give us your exact content workflow for a busy sale week:

“I create the event flyer first because it sets the theme. Then I use elements from that flyer to build everything else.

I reuse the background for Facebook cover, create a logo for Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, website, and email. I keep the same fonts for stories and posts so it’s consistent.

For in-salon signage, I match the flyer design and make a simple tier specials sheet and a price menu in the same theme.”

3 4 5

You donate infographics to help other salon owners. What topics get the most saves and shares, and why?

“The ones that always get the most saves are tanning lotion explainers. They’re useful because they lay out the benefits in one graphic so the customer can pause and read.

It also helps when the salon is busy. Customers read the graphic, then DM questions, and we can sell that

way too. Every time I post tanning lotion infographics, we sell out of that product that same week.

I donated my first infographic back in 2018 or 2019 and salon owners told me it translated into sales. It touched my heart, so I kept sharing.”

When a negative review hits, what’s your decision process before you respond?

“Oh lord, lol. I crash out for a second, it’s human. If it’s a real fault in the salon, you apologize and fix it.

If it’s because they were told no, I sit on it for a few hours because I’m reactionary and I don’t want to respond off emotion.

Then I type my response in my notes app, edit it down once I’m calm, and send it to my staff and my sister before posting.

I’ve gained a reputation for clapping back professionally, and it has gained us new customers. I don’t believe I need to be over accommodating to a customer when they’re clearly wrong. Salon owners should be able to defend their business and staff.”

6 7

What’s your go-to public reply structure that protects your brand and calms the situation fast?

“I don’t have a template because each situation is different. I’m open and honest and I don’t hide my personality just because I’m a business owner.

If I mess up, I own it. I can be sympathetic, or I can be stern and protective if the customer comes in hot.

One thing that calms situations fast is instant messaging. If something happens and I’m not at the salon, staff messages me and we handle it while the customer is still there.”

You’re a mom building a business. What systems keep you sane and consistent?

“The biggest thing that kept me sane this year is Connecteam. It’s free if you have 10 or less employees and it’s like a simplified Facebook for staff. I can post updates and policies from my phone, send reminders, and schedule shifts, no more Excel schedules.

I’m big on staff morale too. I call out great performance in meetings, and we keep the team motivated with praise, little surprises, and support going into busy season.

The biggest difference I made was stopping being a yes man to avoid negative publicity. I don’t believe the customer is always right. I put my staff and salon before money, and I don’t fold on policies just to avoid a bad review.”

Light Therapy and Sunless Tanning

BY KRISTIN LEE SMITHERS, CLT

Sunless tanning has evolved far beyond a quick cosmetic fix. Today’s spray tanning client expects flawless, even fading, longer wear, and skin that looks healthier, not just darker. As demand for premium sunless service continues to rise, salons that pair spray tanning with light therapy are discovering a powerful opportunity to elevate results, increase client satisfaction, and create meaningful new revenue streams.

Light therapy and sunless tanning are not competing services. When used correctly, they complement each other beautifully, improving skin condition before application and supporting longevity after. The result is better tans, happier clients, and smarter service design.

Skin Prep

Every experienced spray technician knows the best spray tan starts with the skin underneath. Dryness, inflammation, uneven texture, and impaired barrier function all lead to patchy absorption and premature fading. This is where light therapy becomes a game changer.

Red and near-infrared light, when delivered at a dose of at least 5 joules and ideally closer to 15, supports cellular energy production, circulation, and skin barrier repair. When used consistently before a spray tan, light therapy helps reduce surface inflammation, improves hydration retention, and encourages more uniform cell turnover. Healthier skin accepts DHA more evenly, allowing the color to develop smoother and last longer.

Clients who struggle with blotchiness, rapid fade, or uneven wear often blame the solution or the technician. In reality, compromised skin is frequently the culprit. Incorporating light therapy into pre-tan preparation addresses the root of the issue instead of masking the symptoms.

Improved Color Development and Wear

Spray tans rely on a chemical reaction between DHA and amino acids in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, which plays a critical role in both skin health and sunless tanning results. If the skin is overly dry or irritated, that reaction becomes unpredictable. Light therapy does not change the chemistry of DHA, but it creates a more stable and receptive environment for the reaction to occur.

Well-hydrated, calm skin allows for more consistent color development and slower exfoliation afterward. Clients often report that tans appear more natural, less orange, and fade more evenly when light therapy is part of their routine.

Supporting the skin’s natural repair and renewal processes before and after a spray tan helps extend the life of the result. That means fewer touch-ups, fewer complaints, and more trust in the service.

Post-Tan Support

A common concern among technicians is whether light therapy will accelerate fading. When used appropriately, it does the opposite.

Red and near-infrared light do not exfoliate the skin and do not remove DHA. Instead, they help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which contribute to premature shedding of pigmented cells. Light therapy also supports microcirculation, helping to maintain a healthy epidermal environment as the tan naturally fades.

The key is timing and dosing. Light therapy should never be positioned as an after-service on the same day as a spray tan. It should always be positioned as a prior service.

Educated scheduling protects results while maximizing benefits.

Premium Add-On

From a business perspective, the pairing of light therapy and sunless tanning makes sense. Clients already associate light therapy with skin health, anti-aging, and recovery. When explained properly, they immediately understand why it improves a spray tan.

This creates a natural upsell opportunity without pressure. Light therapy can be offered as a pre-tan skin prep session, a maintenance add-on during the wear period, or as part of a bundled package for frequent spray clients.

Unlike products that require inventory and shelf space, light therapy leverages equipment already in many salons. It turns unused minutes into revenue and positions the business as results-driven rather than trend-driven.

Education Builds Loyalty

One of the most overlooked benefits of pairing light therapy with sunless tanning is education. When staff explain how skin health impacts

color results, clients feel informed instead of sold to. That trust leads to better compliance with aftercare instructions and more consistent rebooking.

Clients who understand why their tan looks better are more likely to commit to maintenance routines. They stop chasing solutions and start investing in outcomes. This is an invaluable shift for long-term retention.

Intelligent Sunless Future

Spray tanning continues to grow because clients want color without compromise. Light therapy aligns perfectly with that goal. It supports the skin, enhances artistry, and elevates the professionalism of the service.

Salons that integrate light therapy into their sunless programs are not just increasing ticket totals. They are improving results, reducing complaints, and setting themselves apart in an increasingly crowded market.

Everybody wins when we pair science with artistry. Light therapy and sunless tanning truly are a pair made in heaven.

The Godmother of the Glow

How Taryn Luquin Launched National Spray Tan Day and Helped Shape the Sunless Industry

BY STAFF WRITER

Taryn Luquin didn’t set out to create a holiday. She was simply thinking — the way seasoned business owners do — about what her industry was missing.

“I remember hearing about all these random national days,” she says. “And I thought, why doesn’t spray tanning have one?”

That question would eventually become National Spray Tan Day, now celebrated annually on March 6, recognized internationally, and intentionally aligned with International Women’s Day. What started as a simple idea evolved into a unifying moment for an industry that has long fought for education, professionalism, and respect.

Today, Taryn is widely regarded as the Godmother of National Spray Tan Day, a title earned not through marketing but through legacy.

At the heart of it all is Paradise

Sunless & Beauty, her mobile sunless tanning business that has operated continuously for 21 years across Orange County and Los Angeles County.

A Business Built on Movement and Intention

Taryn’s journey into sunless tanning began in 2005 while managing a tanning salon in Huntington Beach. When the salon owner asked her to research spray tanning, Taryn leaned on something she’d been developing since her teens.

“I’d been airbrushing since I was fifteen,” she explains. “I took art classes. The technique felt natural to me.”

When the salon eventually closed, Taryn didn’t see an ending — she saw opportunity.

“I kept thinking about moms coming in with kids, trying to make appointments work,” she says. “So I thought, why not go to them?”

With Craigslist ads, equipment, and determination, Paradise Sunless was born, entirely mobile. That flexibility became a cornerstone of her success.

“I could make my own hours, reach more people, and actually build relationships,” she says.

Two decades later, her clients still return — some weekly, some biweekly — a testament to trust built over time.

Boundaries That Protect the Business and the Owner

Longevity didn’t come without hardearned lessons. One of the most important?

“Boundaries,” Taryn says without hesitation. “You have to have strong policies in place, or you will burn out.”

In her early years, she admits she was too accessible — answering texts immediately, waiting hours for late clients, stretching herself thin.

“I remember waiting an hour and a half for someone who thought they were my only appointment,” she says. “That’s when I realized this isn’t sustainable.”

Today, Paradise Sunless & Beauty operates with clear, firm policies.

“Policies aren’t mean,” she says. “They protect you as an owner. They protect your energy. And they actually make clients respect you more.”

For Taryn, leadership maturity meant recognizing that burnout helps no one — not the owner, not the team, and not the clients.

Education Is the Backbone of Professionalism

If there’s one thing Taryn is passionate about, it’s education especially for artists entering the industry.

“I cannot stress this enough,” she says. “Educational courses are the best thing anyone getting into sunless tanning can do.”

She specifically raves about Norvell’s education programs, which she herself has taken multiple times

“I’ve taken Norvell’s courses again and again,” she says. “Even after all these years. There is always something to learn.”

For Taryn, education isn’t a one-anddone certification — it’s an ongoing commitment.

“If you don’t understand DHA, skin tone, undertones, prep, and aftercare, you’re guessing,” she explains. “And guessing is how clients lose trust.”

Her dedication to learning eventually led her to become a trainer herself, stepping into the role at a time when formal sunless education barely existed.

“There was nothing out there,” she recalls. “So I filled the gap.”

She trained artists with two clear paths: start their own business with guidance, or join the Paradise team.

“Raising the standard helps all of us,” she says.

Detail Doesn’t Stop at the Appointment

Ask Taryn what separates a good spray tan from a great one, and she doesn’t hesitate.

“Detail,” she says. “Every single time.”

That attention doesn’t end when the tan is applied. In fact, Taryn believes aftercare is just as important as application — a belief that led her to develop her own aftercare products.

“You can give the best spray tan in the world,” she explains, “but if the client doesn’t know how to take care of it, the longevity suffers and they think it’s the tan, not the aftercare.”

From nail beds to elbows to heels — and beyond — Taryn’s approach is detail oriented.

“I cut up kitchen sponges,” she laughs. “That’s what I use to buff. It’s about doing whatever it takes.”

Luxury, in her eyes, isn’t about price. It’s about quality and care.

National Spray Tan Day: A Movement, Not a Marketing Gimmick

In 2017, Taryn officially launched National Spray Tan Day, intentionally

choosing March 6 to sit alongside International Women’s Day

“I wanted women to get glammed, feel confident, and celebrate themselves,” she says. “And I wanted artists to benefit from that energy too.”

As the day gained traction, participation spread internationally. When confusion arose around competing dates, the industry responded.

In 2022, through conversations and collaboration, Sunless, Inc (now INNOVE” Beauty and Wellness) publicly aligned with Taryn’s original March 6th vision. They agreed with her intention to center the day around women, empowerment and professionalism in the industry.

“That validation mattered,” Taryn says. “It wasn’t about ownership — it was about purpose.”

This marked the beginning of one unified NSTD, now officially annually on March 6th.

A Legacy Bigger Than a Tan

For those entering the industry, Taryn’s advice is clear:

“Learn the science. Invest in education. Set boundaries early.”

And above all?

“Take calculated risks,” she says. “Not reckless ones.”

National Spray Tan Day may come once a year — but Taryn Luquin’s impact is felt every single day through higher standards, better education, and an industry that continues to evolve.

She didn’t just create a holiday. She created a movement.

Built on Trust, Not Trends

How Jackie Marinace Turned Sunless Tanning Into a Safe Place for Confidence

BY STAFF WRITER

Jackie Marinace doesn’t talk about spray tanning like it’s a service. She talks about it like it’s a responsibility.

“When someone comes to me, they’re trusting me in one of their most vulnerable moments,” she says. “That’s not something I take lightly.”

That belief is the heartbeat behind TanHampton, a sunless tanning business rooted in education, intention, and emotional safety. In an industry often focused on speed, trends, and volume, Jackie has quietly built something different — a brand where confidence is cultivated long before color ever hits the skin.

Finding Her Way Into Sunless

Jackie never set out to build a career in tanning. When she first walked into a salon in 2011, it was simply a job — one of several she was juggling while earning her master’s degree in education.

“At the time, I was working multiple jobs, going to school, just trying to make it all work,” she explains. “Spray tanning wasn’t a passion yet. It was just something I was doing.”

That salon was owned by a woman named Paula, who would later become both a mentor and a turning point in Jackie’s life. Paula trained her in spray tanning, and at first, Jackie struggled — not with technique, but with the vulnerability of the service itself.

“I was very shy,” she admits. “I hated spray tanning at first. I thought, ‘Why would anyone want to be naked in front of me when I wouldn’t even want to do that myself?’”

But slowly, something shifted.

“When I started seeing how people left — happier, more confident — it changed me,” Jackie says. “It built my

confidence, too. I realized I could actually make people feel good about themselves.”

What began as a paycheck started to feel like purpose.

Choosing People Over the Plan

Life moved quickly. Jackie met Paula’s son, George. They built a family, welcoming their son Johnny, and in 2016, Paula and her husband retired, handing the business over to Jackie and George.

Suddenly, the path Jackie thought she was on — teaching in a classroom — didn’t feel right anymore.

“I realized I loved being in the salon more than I loved the idea of teaching in a traditional sense,” she says. “I was still teaching, just differently. I

was helping people feel comfortable, confident, and seen.”

The work was demanding. Long days. No real breaks. Johnny often spent time at the salon, growing up alongside the business.

“He was basically raised there,” Jackie laughs. “But I loved it. I loved the environment. I loved the people.”

The business grew. Clients returned. Word spread. In 2019, they opened a second location.

Then COVID hit.

Like many business owners, Jackie was forced to pause, reassess, and adapt. By the end of 2020, she and George separated. They split the businesses but remained close, eventually reuniting professionally in a way that allowed Jackie to focus fully on sunless tanning — the part of the work that had always lit her up.

“Sunless is what kept me going,” she says. “I truly love what I do.”

Discovering the Science Behind the Art

One of Jackie’s most pivotal moments came after Paula retired, when Jackie enrolled in Norvell’s sunless science course.

“That class changed everything for me,” she says. “I remember sitting there thinking, ‘Oh my god — this isn’t just spraying someone and hoping for the best.’ There’s real science behind this.”

Color theory. Skin chemistry. Application technique. The deeper Jackie went, the more her background in education resurfaced.

“I always say I never left education,” she explains. “I just changed classrooms.”

Jackie became a Norvell educator herself, eventually offering master certifications and training other spray tan artists. But her goal was never exclusivity.

“I truly believe there’s room for everyone in this industry,” she says. “If someone wants to do this, I’d rather teach them how to do it the right way.”

For Jackie, education is about protecting the integrity of sunless tanning as a whole.

“If someone has a bad spray tan experience, they don’t just blame that one technician,” she says. “They blame spray tanning. That affects all of us.”

Creating a Space Where People Feel Safe

Ask Jackie what truly sets her apart, and she won’t mention certifications or accolades. She’ll talk about energy.

“I can fill silence,” she laughs. “There’s never an awkward moment in my room.”

That matters more than people

realize. Spray tanning is intimate. Clients arrive nervous, self-conscious, sometimes carrying insecurities they’ve never voiced out loud.

“By the end of the appointment, they’re a completely different person,” Jackie says. “They’ll tell me, ‘You made this so easy.’”

That ease is intentional.

“I never rush someone,” she explains. “Even if my lobby is full, this is your time with me.”

Clients are encouraged to ask questions. To speak up. To text her directly if something doesn’t feel right.

“I tell them, ‘Don’t Google it. Call me,’” she says. “I give everyone my personal number.”

For Jackie, accessibility is luxury.

Standards That Don’t Bend

No matter how busy things get — even on days with 50-plus bodybuilding clients — Jackie’s standards don’t change.

“Cleanliness. Honesty. Trust. And delivering my best work every single time,” she says. “I will never half-ass a spray tan.”

Clients don’t leave until everything is perfect. Smudges get fixed. Details get refined.

“I want them to walk out feeling confident, not questioning anything.”

That commitment has built loyalty far more effectively than any marketing strategy ever could.

“My biggest growth has always come from word of mouth,” Jackie says. “Happy clients tell other people.”

Leadership Without Ego

In a female-dominated industry, Jackie sees leadership not as authority, but as presence.

“It’s about empowering others,” she

says. “Boosting confidence. Being a source of light.”

Clients talk to her. Vent to her. Trust her with pieces of their lives. Jackie holds that space carefully.

“I don’t bring negativity into the room,” she explains. “Even if I’m having a bad day, that’s not for my clients to carry.”

That emotional discipline, she believes, is what separates strong leaders from overwhelmed ones.

Advice for Women Building Something of Their Own

When asked what she wishes more women knew before opening a business, Jackie doesn’t hesitate.

“With passion, anything is possible,” she says. “If you don’t try because you’re afraid to fail, you’ll always wonder what could’ve been.”

She’s realistic about the journey.

“You’re going to mess up. You’re going to stumble,” she says. “Feel bad for a second — then ask yourself what you’re going to learn from it.”

And to the younger version of herself, unsure and quietly afraid?

“You have no idea what you’re capable of,” she says softly.

A Different Kind of Glow

Jackie hopes her story gives others permission to trust themselves, to take risks, to follow the pull toward something unexpected.

“Take that risk you feel called to and see where it takes you,” she says.

At TanHampton, the glow may fade in time but the confidence Jackie builds in her clients and her community lasts far longer.

Standards that Last

How Jordan Bell Leads Smart Bronze with Heart, Standards, and Community

BY STAFF WRITER

Jordan Bell doesn’t romanticize ownership.

She talks about responsibility. About people. About showing up, even on the days when it would be easier not to.

“It’s bigger than me,” she says. “I have a team that relies on me. I have a family that relies on me.”

That grounding perspective has shaped her leadership at Smart Bronze, a sunless tanning studio built on warmth, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to making clients feel safe, seen, and confident.

From Bed Tanning to Sunless and Finding Her Place

Jordan’s journey into tanning started the way many did — growing up bed tanning, then as an adult working in tanning salons. Owning a salon was always in the back of her mind, but it wasn’t until she landed at Smart Bronze that things truly clicked.

After graduating college in 2011 with a social work degree, Jordan struggled to find work in her field. Smart Bronze offered a job and unexpectedly, a calling.

“I really fell in love with the sunless side of tanning,” she says. “You get to know your customers in a different way. You build a closer relationship.”

She left briefly to try what she calls a “big girl job” in a traditional office setting, but the cubicle life didn’t fit.

“I wasn’t made for that,” she admits.

She returned to Smart Bronze as manager, and in 2015 made the leap into ownership.

“The financial investment was terrifying,” Jordan says honestly. “But I believed in the business. I knew my

life and my family’s life would be very different if I didn’t take that leap.”

Nearly eleven years later, she’s grateful she did.

Confidence Is the Product

Ask Jordan why she stayed in the industry, and her answer isn’t technical.

“It’s the confidence,” she says. “People walk in and kind of strut out.”

For her, tanning has never been about vanity. It’s about transformation — the quiet kind that shows up in posture, energy, and self-assurance.

“That’s my favorite part of the job,” she says. “The relationships, and the confidence we give people.”

The Smart Bronze Experience Starts with Comfort

Jordan knows how vulnerable spray tanning can feel, standing under bright lights, undressed, in front of a stranger. That understanding shapes everything about Smart Bronze.

“I want people to feel welcome and comfortable immediately,” she says. “It’s not easy to do this.”

The environment matters. So does the team.

“Our employees are some of the kindest women I’ve ever met,” Jordan says. “We don’t do the mean-girl thing.”

Clients are greeted with smiles, conversation, and genuine care. Over time, that consistency builds trust.

“We see them every week. We know their lives. It almost becomes family,” she says.

“You Are Entirely Up to You”

Jordan’s leadership mantra is simple but powerful: You are entirely up to you.

“You don’t have to follow a rule or a plan just because everyone else does,” she explains. “If it doesn’t work for you, it doesn’t work for you.”

That philosophy guides how she runs Smart Bronze — staying true to what feels authentic instead of chasing trends or external pressure.

“Staying true to yourself makes the experience more enjoyable,” she says.

Leading Humans, Not Robots

As an owner, Jordan had to unlearn the idea that leadership meant rigidity.

“I had to learn empathy,” she says. “I employ human beings, not machines.”

She’s intentional about how her team learns, adapting training styles to fit visual learners, readers, and hands-on employees.

“If they feel supported, they’re happier — and they stay longer,” she says.

For Jordan, empathy isn’t weakness. It’s stability.

Training,

Standards, and the Fear of “Orange”

Education is central to Smart Bronze but not in an overwhelming way.

When training new artists, Jordan focuses on three non-negotiables:

1. Customer relations

2. Cleaning

3. The art and science of the tan

“If clients don’t feel welcome, nothing else matters,” she says. “If the salon isn’t clean, we can’t operate.”

The third piece, understanding how the tan works — builds confidence for both the artist and the client.

That confidence is crucial when addressing the most common fear in spray tanning.

“Orange,” Jordan says, without hesitation.

Smart Bronze never repeats the word.

“We say ‘unnatural looking,’” she explains. “And we explain why that happens — inferior products or too much color.”

By educating clients on skin tone, prep, and proper application, the fear dissolves.

“Our non-negotiable standard is that the tan must look natural,” Jordan says. “Like it could’ve come from the sun.”

Marketing Through Community, Not Noise

Smart Bronze’s growth hasn’t come from flashy campaigns.

“Word of mouth has been huge,” Jordan says.

So has community involvement. Rather than spending heavily on traditional advertising, Smart Bronze donates consistently to local schools, silent auctions, and fundraisers.

“Our name is at every event,” she explains. “And we’re giving back to our community.”

It’s advertising but rooted in presence and trust.

Educating Without Overwhelming

Jordan is keenly aware that first-time clients are often overstimulated.

“They’re not retaining much when they’re standing there naked,” she laughs.

So Smart Bronze educates through repetition:

• On the website

• Verbally at booking

• In confirmation emails

• With take-home cards

Over time, information sticks without pressure.

“That’s how you build loyalty,” she says.

National Spray Tan Day: Celebration Over Stress

For Jordan and her team, National Spray Tan Day isn’t chaotic — it’s joyful.

“It’s a fun day,” she says. “The girls are excited.”

Smart Bronze celebrates with free booth tans, giveaways, snacks,

champagne, and a drawing for a free month of tanning.

Behind the scenes, the team preps content, services equipment, and leans on resources from Innove Beauty & Wellness to keep everything running smoothly.

Watching the day grow year after year has been meaningful.

“It started as nothing,” Jordan says. “And now it’s international.”

A Legacy Her Children Can See

Jordan’s children grew up in the salon, falling asleep to the hum of HVLP machines, learning routines, helping clean.

“What I want them to see is that hard work matters,” she says. “Nothing is handed to you.”

When ownership feels heavy, that perspective grounds her.

“This is bigger than me,” she says. “And that keeps me going.”

In an industry built on confidence, Jordan Bell leads with something quieter — consistency, care, and the kind of leadership that lasts.

As the industry’s top trusted name, we set the standard for innovation, safety, and customer satisfaction, backed by years of expertise and proven success.

Our advanced VersaSpa spray system delivers whole-body skincare in minutes, leaving skin refreshed, radiant, & visibly improved.

“I’ve

completed 50+ sessions, it’s so easy to follow” – Tenley, Spa Owner

Walk-In To Loyal Client Creating A Consistent Experience

BY STAFF WRITER

When it comes to building trust in a business-client relationship, there are few things as important as offering consistency. While TV tropes might make it seem like it is cute and quirky to have a salon that is always doing something different or changing things up, reality is a bit different.

Every major franchise, from Wal-Mart to McDonald’s, has become popular as a result of the

consistency offered by the franchise. To a point, one can even argue that consistency and predictability mattered more than quality with some of those chains.

As a salon owner, you owe it to yourself and your clients to create an experience that is consistent, reliable, and easy enough to replicate. Today, we are going to talk about how it is done, and we laid it out in simple, easy-to-follow steps.

First, start with the right training.

The first thing that you need to do is ensure that all of your trainees know what to do at the salon. In order to ensure that you are getting a decent standard of care across the board, you need to educate your staff on how to deliver great service.

This can include things like:

Sun Is Life Certification. If you want to learn how to administer the best in health and wellness, the Sun Is Life certification is a good way to do it. It is proof that you are part of the tanning industry as a professional.

Creating a training course for your staff that is unique to your salon. This can include things like brandspecific training on greetings, as well as protocols on how to clean sunless equipment.

Having seasonal updates on the newest lotions to hit your salon’s shelves. Every season brings in new lotions. You might as well take time to explain the perks of each new product to your staff.

Have a codified protocol for your day-to-day operations.

Do you have an actual rulebook for your business? As in, a set-in-stone print guide for the expectations put forth by you in your regular business operations? While most people have a loose idea of what they want staff to do, the truth is that having a rulebook or an actual set of referenceable rules can make a world of difference.

A good rulebook will have the following as part of the general rules to follow:

It will have a dress code. You cannot get consistent without people wearing the same thing day in, day out. This includes things like sneakers, hair guidelines, and what happens if an employee does not pass muster.

You also should spell out opening, closing, and intake protocols. These three retail aspects are so simple, yet they can be botched so easily. This is doubly true with new client intake, which should be a major focal point of any salon. It is a first impression, c’mon.

Consider adding and diagraming your cleaning protocols. How do you clean your tanning beds? What do you use? How long do you let that full-body sauna “cook” before a person is allowed in? These are important questions to ask.

Avoid too much “variety” when it comes to purchasing sunless equipment.

Let’s face it, the tech that you purchase for your store is part of the brand. While it is tempting to splurge on the latest and greatest sunless equipment, the truth is that you have to be a bit more careful if you have multiple stores.

If you have multiple stores, you cannot stock one store with all the hottest stuff while the other stores falter. You need to have a fairly consistent span of offerings. Otherwise, people will not feel certain that they can get the sunless equipment they want when they go to another brand.

Speaking of sunless equipment, you have to maintain what you have.

For tanning salon regulars, there are few things as aggravating as liking a particular salon sunless equipment, only to find out later that it is a sunless equipment that is always on the fritz. No chain wants to have their own example of the “McDonald’s ice cream machine” gag in their arsenal.

A constantly broken sunless equipment is a major mark against providing a consistent experience. It is not fun, and if you are really bad about maintenance and cleaning, it can even become a potential issue of false advertising.

Keep your decor consistent too.

Let’s talk a little bit about decorations. In any franchise, be it clothing or salon, there is a certain ambiance you expect from chains. That is because the decor and the architecture of every retail store features is a part of the brand.

Think about it. Would McDonald’s be recognizable without the Golden Arches or those red faux leather booths? Would Abercrombie and Fitch be as recognizable without that gust of heavy-hitting cologne that hits you as soon as you walk in the doors? It would not be recognizable at all.

Consistency is key. Your decor has to remain similar across all moments.

Built to Last: How Heartland Distribution Is Shaping the Next Era of Tanning and Wellness

From equipment and education to events and diversification, Heartland’s executive leadership team shares how strategy, content, and community are driving sustainable salon success.

BY JOE SCHUSTER

“Your Success is Our Success”

For over four decades, Heartland Distribution has been a cornerstone of the tanning and wellness industry. Entering its 44th year in 2026, the company has transitioned from a legacy equipment manufacturer to the industry’s premier resource for distribution, technical support, and business education. Let’s catch up with some of their leadership team.

Brad Henson President & Managing Partner

Focus: Corporate Strategy, Finance, and Equipment Operations With over 40 years of experience, Brad has steered Heartland through decades of industry upheaval. Since his brother Greg’s retirement, Brad has led the company with a focus on financial stability and technical legitimacy. He remains a hands-on leader,

SUCCESS STORIES

particularly in the equipment sector and the flipping of used equipment. Brad is a staunch advocate for industry education, believing that modern salon owners require high-level “content” to justify their investments in time and travel.

Tammy

Reid

Executive Vice President

Focus: Distribution, Sales Leadership, and Event Curation Tammy’s journey began in 1996 as an independent salon owner and Heartland customer. Her transition to the corporate side 30 years ago has given her a unique “owner-first” perspective. She oversees the distribution arm of the business and manages a team of 15+, including the buying and sales departments. Tammy is the architect of the “Mind Your Business” (MYB) event series, championing the idea that networking and peer-to-peer reflection are the keys to long-term owner retention and mental health.

Kristen

Jackson

Director of Marketing & Sourcing

Focus: Brand Innovation, Digital Resources, and Product Sourcing

A 17-year veteran of the industry, Kristen is the creative force behind Heartland’s modern identity. She manages the industry’s most detailed catalog—now featuring specialized tags for Red Light and SPF—and has pioneered Heartland’s digital expansion. Under her leadership, the Heartland podcast and weekly blog have become essential resources for salon owners. Kristen also works closely with the buying department to source the ancillary products (Cryo, Halo, and Poly therapies) that are defining the future of wellness.

Catalog and Digital Resources Jackson emphasized that the Heartland catalog is the most

detailed in the industry, serving as a valuable resource, and is available in print, digital, and a retail version that omits salon pricing. “0ur digital resources include a successful podcast that features industry professionals, a weekly blog, and a webinar series led by our Jessica Stone that addresses salon challenges without being product-specific. These are such great resources that salons can learn from.”

Industry

Challenges and Diversification When asked about future industry roadblocks, Tammy Reed mentioned economic uncertainty as a key factor but believes the industry has largely overcome its prior negative perception through diversification. “Successful salon owners now diversify their portfolios with services like cryotherapy, halo therapies, and poly treatments, making the business about something for everyone versus just one niche area”, says Reed.

Brad Henson followed with, “The newer generation of industry participants now have a broader vision, focusing on those new ancillary products that are now paramount for year-round success, with tanning remaining the backbone”.

Importance of Education and Event

Content Henson also stressed the necessity of education for clients regarding current and future industry trends. He says, “The Heartland series of industry gatherings are focused on content and education, allowing salons to co-mingle and discuss pertinent issues. The current client base demands content and education at these events to justify the time and expense of travel, expecting to leave with information that will improve their business. Sun is Life certification has always kicked our January events.”

The Two Annual Heartland Events

The company hosts two annual events, that Reed referred to as the “mullet of the tanning industry events,” where January is “business in the front” and May is “party in the back” . Their January event focuses on educating staffers and preparing them for the coming season, which they view as a salon investment. The second event, MYB, which stands for “Mind Your Business,” is ownersonly and began during COVID-19 to connect salon partners and reflect on the season.

Investment in Events

The Heartland team focuses on helping salons succeed beyond just selling products, offering “value ads” like education and the mobile app to make things more convenient for busy salon owners. Jackson reiterated that “both annual events are beneficial, with the January event providing education and momentum for the season, while the MYB event allows colleagues to meet and reflect”, emphasizing that attending both is a necessary investment

MYB Event Details and Networking

The MYB event, which will be in its sixth year, has moved to a new location at Margaritaville, as the team likes to offer different environments. Reed notes the high rate of returning attendees who appreciate that it is not a highpressure sales environment, but rather an opportunity for roundtable discussions and reflection on the past season. “The event serves as a great networking opportunity where attendees have formed lasting friendships. They’re also really a lot of fun!”, says Reed.

We wish Heartland all the best in 2026 and look forward to these industry shaping events.

The Colors Nanometers Matter

BY KRISTIN LEE SMITHERS, CLT

If you have been around light therapy long enough, you have heard people talk about “the best wavelength” as if one number solves everything. Science does not work that way. Photobiomodulation, also called PBM, is more like a toolbox. Different nanometers (nm) interact with tissues differently, penetrate differently, and show up in research for different goals. PBM is commonly described as using visible and nearinfrared, non-ionizing light, often discussed across roughly the 400 to 1100 nm neighborhood, depending on the device and application.

Quick glossary

nm (nanometer): the unit used to describe wavelength (color).

Photon: a “packet” of light energy. Chromophore: a light-absorbing target in tissue.

Mitochondria: the cell’s energy center.

Irradiance (mW/cm²): how much light power is hitting each square centimeter of skin at your real treatment distance.

Fluence (J/cm²) : the total energy delivered per square centimeter over time.

What is photobiomodulation?

Photobiomodulation is the use of non-thermal, non-ionizing light to influence cellular function. In many PBM models, photons are absorbed by chromophores linked to mitochondrial activity, with cytochrome c oxidase commonly discussed, and this can trigger downstream changes in cellular signaling and energy processes.

PBM has a strong research base, but results depend heavily on the parameters, especially wavelength, irradiance, distance, time, and total dose.

What does what?

Think of wavelength like “job roles.” You can get great results, but you need the right role and the right dose.

Blue (often discussed around 415 to 420 nm in acne studies)

Best known for skin clarity and acne support in the light therapy literature. Systematic reviews have found multiple randomized trials, while also noting variability and study limitations. Blue is mainly a surface-focused conversation. It is

not interchangeable with red or nearinfrared.

Green (around the 500 to 570 nm band)

Green is most “established” in dermatology when you are talking about 532 nm laser systems used for specific vascular or pigment targets, which is not the same as LED PBM. For salon-style PBM conversations, keep it cosmetic, supporting the appearance of a more even-looking tone, with results being device- and protocol-dependent.

Yellow / Amber (often discussed around 585 to 590 nm)

Often positioned for “calming” and the appearance of redness. Research exists in dermatology settings, but protocols and devices vary widely, so keep your claims appropriately cosmetic and wellness-based.

Red (commonly 633 to 660 nm)

Red is a workhorse for skin appearance and recovery-oriented use, and it is frequently paired with near-infrared. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial concluded that 830 nm and 633 nm LED phototherapy was effective for skin rejuvenation outcomes in that protocol. Red is a strong “skin and glow” player, and it pairs well with near-infrared.

Near-Infrared,

NIR (commonly discussed around 810 to 850 nm in PBM)

NIR is known for deeper penetration relative to visible wavelengths and is widely discussed for recovery, comfort, and inflammationmodulation goals. NIR is not “better” than red. It is different, and many

strong protocols layer red plus NIR.

Dose matters

One of the most important PBM concepts is the biphasic dose response. Too little tends to do nothing, an effective window supports a positive response, and too much can reduce the benefit. This is repeatedly discussed in PBM literature and is a major reason “more is better” does not hold up in practice.

In plain English, PBM follows a “Goldilocks” pattern. Too little energy may not create a noticeable change, the right amount supports the desired response, and too much can blunt the benefit or make results less noticeable.

This is why two people can use the same wavelength and get different outcomes. Dose, distance, and consistency determine whether you land in the effective range. Every body has a slightly different “sweet spot,” influenced by skin thickness, melanin level, hydration, circulation, body composition, inflammation load, sensitivity, age, medications, and how deep the target tissue is.

On top of that, devices vary in strength, beam spread, and true irradiance at the skin. So two people doing “10 minutes” may be receiving completely different energy densities. The end result is a range of experiences. One person may need a higher dose or closer positioning to feel benefits. Another may respond best to a lower dose and fewer sessions. Someone else may notice subtle improvements that build steadily with consistent use over time.

How much do I need?

Everyone loves the word “joules” because it sounds fancy and concrete, but what matters most in PBM dosing is usually:

...continue reading on page 42

From page 39 - The Colors

Fluence (J/cm²): total energy delivered per area Irradiance (mW/cm²): power delivered per area

These are central to PBM outcomes in the research, and they are what let you dose intentionally instead of guessing.

The formula, written the way salons actually see it (mW/cm²)

Time (seconds) = (Target dose in J/ cm² × 1000) ÷ Irradiance (mW/cm²)

Why the 1000? Because device specs are usually in mW, and 1 W equals 1000 mW.

Example (Target dose: 30 J/ cm²)

If your device delivers 50 mW/cm² at the distance you actually use it:

Time (seconds) = (30 × 1000) ÷ 50 = 30,000 ÷ 50 = 600 seconds 600 seconds equals 10 minutes

So at 50 mW/cm², it takes 10 minutes to deliver 30 J/cm² to that area.

Shortcut:

Time (minutes) = (Target J/cm² × 16.67) ÷ Irradiance (mW/cm²)

Distance matters, but not for the reason most people think

Many light sources are relatively weak, and their irradiance drops quickly as you move away from the device. That is not opinion. It is optics and geometry. A 2025 paper evaluating home PBM LED devices measured beam divergence and calculated irradiance and fluence specifically because real-world dosimetry changes with design and distance.

Closeness is not the goal, dose at the tissue is the goal

Distance itself is not magic. Distance matters because it changes irradiance, and irradiance changes dose.

With some devices, stepping back can drop irradiance so much that sessions become under-dosed within practical time limits.

With stronger or better-designed systems, you can still deliver a meaningful dose at a more comfortable working distance because the irradiance remains high enough at that distance.

So yes, some systems are ineffective after a centimeter or two. Others can deliver an excellent dose from farther away. The professional question is never “how close should I be?” It is, “What is the irradiance at the distance I will actually use?” and “How long at that distance to reach my target J/cm²?”

When you match the right wavelength range to the right goal, verify irradiance at the distance clients actually use, and calculate

a meaningful J/cm², light therapy stops being a trend and becomes a repeatable service.

Marketing and claims reminder:

If you advertise a light therapy service or device with medical-style claims, for example “treats,” “heals,” “reduces pain,” “cures,” “diagnoses,” or “inflammation treatment,” your claims should match the device’s cleared intended use and labeling. FDA considers intended use to be shown not only by the label and instructions, but also by promotional materials. If you promote an uncleared medical use, you can create regulatory risk for the product and for how it is being offered. On the advertising side, the FTC expects health-related benefit claims to be truthful, not misleading, and supported by competent and reliable scientific evidence, and the level of evidence needs to fit how strong your claim is. If you cannot substantiate a medical claim to that standard, keep language in the cosmetic and general wellness lane, such as appearance, comfort, relaxation, and recovery support, and avoid implying disease treatment.

Insightful Tactics For Any Salon Local Marketing on a Budget

BY STAFF WRITER

If you’re opening your first tanning salon, chances are you’re asking yourself one important question. How do you actually get customers through the door once you open?

The answer is simple. You have to start marketing your salon ASAP!

Marketing is a cornerstone of any business these days, especially in the world of retail. The issue that most budding business owners have is the budget. Marketing is difficult when you’re on a shoestring budget.

The question is, how do you market locally and keep your budget intact?

I’ve got the tips as a marketing professional who has helped launch several businesses.

Sign, Sign, Everywhere a Sign

Local traffic is often foot traffic, or at least traffic that drives by businesses. The easiest way to let people know you’re here and ready is to have signs that are eye-catching, easily identifiable, and a little promotion-heavy.

Have a chalkboard sign outside your location with weekly specials. Get one of those massive, obnoxious banners when you have a grand opening. Get a sign spinner on special weeks, like Bama Rush, if you see a major influx during those times.

Signs are remarkably useful when it comes to getting foot traffic. With that said, there are no reliable studies on how well they work, simply

because their efficacy all depends on where they are located.

Go Social

Now, let’s talk about social media. Social media is going to be the lifeblood of your salon, provided that you do it right. Here’s how:

First, make sure that you have an online presence that can be directly linked to your address. Registering your business on Google Places will make it easier for locals to drive to your business. In time, you will also be able to advertise your work on Google Places.

Keep your reviews positive. Offer professional replies to all negative reviews, or dispute them if they are unfair.

Post regularly on the social platforms that tend to be beauty-heavy in your area. Meta, Facebook and Instagram, tend to be the best for this. Have large, smooth videos touring your salon. Do before and afters. Have your staffers talk about how they work their tan magic. The more creative and engaging the content is, the better it is.

You don’t necessarily have to pay for a boost to social media posts to see a return here. In fact, there’s evidence that Meta and similar platforms are getting you to pay for a large percentage of bot views, so it may not even be as worthwhile as you think.

However, if you have a couple hundred dollars to spare, this could still be a good way to make sure that you make a major splash in your local area, provided you put in the time.

PRO TIP: A little local SEO in the form of blog posting tends to work wonders. However, this approach can often take months to fully set up and see results. This is why social media tends to be a better choice.

than $500 a pop. The return on investment can vary wildly depending on what you’re doing there, but it can be pretty high.

Mailers

Hit Up Local Events

Most communities have local events like state fairs, sidewalk sales, local college events, or even small celebrations for specific days. If you’ve peeped the show, you’d notice that a lot of those events have local vendors showing off their services at their own booths or tables.

This is a smart, smart move.

People who attend these events are local and tend to remain local. They’re looking for local merchants who will add to Main Street rather than Wall Street. Introduce your company. Shake some hands. You might be surprised at how well this works.

In most cases, booths won’t be more

Mailers have a surprisingly strong staying power in marketing. Around 1 percent of all the mailers you send will convert into sales. Knowing that, it’s up to you to do the math on whether it’s worth it for your salon. With that said, it’s often a good choice if you are dealing with a grand opening.

Turn Your Clients Into Your Sales Staff

This is the easiest way to make your company “local famous,” but you have to be proactive in it. Here’s how to do it:

• Set up your email list. Encourage clients and visitors to add their names to your email list. Use this to send occasional promotional emails to your local base. It keeps your store top of mind.

• Offer a referral program. The easiest way to do this is to have referrals that are traceable, such as with a code or via a name. Encourage people to talk about referrals, offering them free tan sessions, free swag, and free lotions in exchange for getting their friends in there.

• Have “Bring a Friend” days at your location. Offer two-for-one tans and more.

It’s simple, and it works. Word of mouth is remarkably powerful and still highly regarded in advertising. The more you become your area’s “glamorous little secret,” the happier you’re going to be.

The Bottom Line

If you want to make a splash in your local area, you have to focus on ads that actually get circulated in your region. Have your boots on the ground. Get creative. The more you focus on locality, the better off your return on marketing investment will be.

The Changing Landscape of SBA Financing for Startups

BY STERLING BIRDSONG

A Shifting SBA Lending Landscape

Over the last several years, the Small Business Administration (SBA) lending environment for startups, particularly franchise startups, has shifted in a meaningful way. What was once a relatively consistent and predictable structure has become more nuanced, more conservative, and in some cases, more challenging for first-time operators to navigate.

Higher Equity Requirements for Startup Loans

How Expansion Changes the Equation

Once a borrower successfully opens and operates a location that demonstrates stable cash flow, the equation changes. At that point, lenders are often far more willing to structure future deals with only 10 percent down, particularly when the expansion is within the same brand and operating model. In fact, under SBA rules, expansion loans technically do not require a down payment at all.

SBA Rules Versus Bank Reality

Franchise systems with 50 or more operating units are generally no longer viewed as “emerging” concepts by lenders. These brands tend to receive more favorable treatment because they offer deeper operating data, stronger franchisor support, and a more predictable performance profile. In effect, scale creates purchasing power, even in the lending space.

Why Loan Terms Vary So Widely

One of the most notable changes is the increase in required equity injections for startup SBA loans. Just a few years ago, a 10 percent down payment for a startup franchise was often achievable, assuming the borrower had strong credit, relevant experience, and alignment with a solid brand. Today, many banks are increasingly requiring 15 percent down for startup transactions.

Why First-Time Operators Face More Scrutiny

It is important to clarify that this tightening primarily applies to franchisees who do not yet own or operate an existing location. From a lender’s perspective, first-time operators inherently carry more risk. Without a proven, cash-flowing unit, banks are leaning more heavily on additional borrower equity as a risk mitigant, even when the SBA’s guidelines technically allow for less.

That said, there is a critical distinction every borrower must understand.

What the SBA allows and what banks will actually approve are not always the same thing.

The SBA sets the outer bounds of what is permissible. Banks, however, apply their own internal credit policies, risk tolerances, and portfolio considerations on top of those rules. As a result, even though the SBA may not require a down payment for an expansion loan, many banks will still look for some level of borrower equity, liquidity, or balance sheet strength before issuing an approval.

The Role of Franchise Brand Scale

Another major factor influencing approvals today is brand scale.

For borrowers, this means that the same individual with the same financial profile can receive very different loan terms depending on:

• Whether the deal is a startup or an expansion

• Whether they already operate a successful location

• The maturity and size of the franchise brand

• The specific bank underwriting the loan

Strategy Matters More Than Ever

Understanding these dynamics, and positioning a deal accordingly, has never been more important. In today’s SBA environment, structure, lender selection, and strategy matter just as much as borrower qualifications.

Transform Your Salon into a Thriving Wellness Recovery and Longevity Lounge

Upgrade Your Memberships with Signature Quality Wellness Services

BY STEVE DAFFER

The salon industry is evolving faster than ever, and today’s most successful membership models are no longer built on tanning alone. Modern clients are seeking something deeper: recovery, rejuvenation, longevity, and wellness experiences that feel both luxurious and results-driven. The future belongs to salons that embrace this shift and offer more than a service — they offer a reason to return again and again.

For over 37 years, Wellness USA has helped salon owners lead this evolution. Founded by Steven Daffer, Wellness USA has become a trusted name in advanced spa and wellness equipment, providing innovative modalities that elevate memberships, increase retention, and set businesses apart in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

At the center of this movement is the rising demand for signature wellness technology that supports anti-aging, hydration, pain relief, and body transformation. Wellness USA delivers with three standout experiences designed to redefine the member journey and position your salon as a true recovery and longevity lounge.

The RedFuzion PRO MAX is a

powerful anti-aging solution featuring six rejuvenating wavelengths of advanced red-light therapy. This full-body system is designed to support cellular renewal, skin revitalization, and recovery, making it one of the most in-demand wellness upgrades for premium memberships. Clients love the futuristic experience and the visible results that keep them coming back.

Equally transformative is the Cocoon Aqua, a vitamin-infused body hydration therapy experience that surrounds members in soothing warmth and restorative steam. This one-of-a-kind service promotes deep hydration, radiant skin, and total-body refreshment. It’s more than relaxation — it’s a signature ritual that builds emotional connection and consistent return visits.

For clients seeking weight loss support and pain management, the Cocoon Deluxe Wellness Pod offers an immersive recovery experience unlike anything else in the salon space. Combining infrared heat, therapeutic comfort, and full-body

wellness benefits, it delivers a highvalue service that feels like a luxury spa retreat while helping members reach real wellness goals.

Beyond these flagship experiences, Wellness USA offers a complete line of infrared and red-light wellness solutions designed for salons, gyms, and wellness centers of all sizes. Many systems can be installed quickly, allowing businesses to expand their wellness footprint seamlessly.

By integrating red-light rejuvenation, hydration therapy, and recoveryfocused wellness pods into your membership offerings, salons can increase perceived value, boost recurring revenue, and create transformational client experiences.

The future of tanning is Wellness. CALL TODAY!

Taking Sunless Head On!

BY STAFF WRITER

This month our Salon Prose dug into sunless spray tanning with a variety of questions. They’ve given us some great responses, we’ve broken them down into two groups over two issues. The responses tackled the questions with honesty and clarity and are not informative, but quite entertaining. Read on!

Do you feature sunless as an “alternative” or as a “compliment” to UV indoor tanning? What is the biggest objection to overcome with spray tanning services?

equipment, enabling them to clearly explain procedures based on firsthand experience. By demonstrating our own results, we effectively illustrate that spray tanning offers excellent outcomes in just one session. Experience has shown that confidence in our equipment and the ability to communicate its simplicity are essential for successfully promoting spray tans to new clients. Additionally, for guests preparing for sunny beach vacations, we recommend scheduling a spray tan two days prior to departure as a finishing touch to complement the base tan developed over the preceding 30 to 45 days.

an outstanding tan without the time investment associated with traditional UV tanning.

At both our Total Tan locations, we provide UV tanning, automated spray tanning, and custom airbrush tanning services. While UV tanning remains our primary source of revenue, the spray tanning segment continues to expand annually. Most clients remain loyal to their preferred method of tanning; however, we welcome the opportunity to introduce them to alternatives, particularly those unfamiliar with spray tanning. Common concerns include apprehension about unnatural color results, becoming too dark, or uncertainty regarding the process.

Our staff are thoroughly trained and required to use each piece of

When guiding newcomers through our automated booth, I demonstrate each step of the process, answer questions, and share helpful tips. I highlight our premium, anti-orange solution and suggest lighter shades for first-time users, recommending a test session before important events to ensure the perfect end result.

We frequently offer complimentary spray tans to our regular UV clients, and they consistently express appreciation for the results and positive feedback they receive. Spray tanning serves as an excellent complement to our standard UV tanning services and provides an ideal alternative for individuals seeking

Vic Perrin Total Tan

Spray tanning and sunbed tanning are often treated like opposites, but in our experience, they work best together. We offer spray tanning as a complement to sunbed tanning, yet there’s still a noticeable divide among clients as many people tend to identify as either a “spray tanner” or a “bed tanner,” rarely both. Because of that, we encourage members who have spray tanning included in their membership to think of it as a “cocktail” rather than a replacement. Tan first, then spray for an added boost. It’s about enhancing results, not choosing sides. When clients use both intentionally, they see better color, longer-lasting results, and

more confidence overall. One of the biggest challenges in the industry is converting walk-in spray tan clients into members. Even though the value is clear — one spray tan is $40, while our Spray Club membership is $69.99 a month for unlimited sprays — spray tanners are surprisingly the hardest group to commit to a membership. With our other services, memberships are an easy yes. With spray tanning, there’s more hesitation. To combat that, we’ve made it a priority to offer a membership to every spray tan walk-in. Not in a pushy way, but in an educational one — helping clients understand how often they actually spray and what makes the most sense financially and practically for their lifestyle. We’ve also introduced

a half-off Spray Club membership for clients 21 and under, which has helped remove the financial barrier and encourage younger clients to build consistent self-care habits early. We also understand that add-on sales are crucial to make the most out of a walk-in client. And of course deliver exceptional spray tan results so they come back again and again. At the end of the day, it comes down to reframing spray tanning. It’s not just for special occasions, and it’s not an all-or-nothing service. When clients see it as part of a routine — especially when paired strategically with sunbed tanning — everything changes.

Emily Sigmon, Owner Carolina Tan & Wellness

In the tanning and wellness industry, the conversation often circles around whether sunless tanning should be positioned as an alternative to UV tanning or as a complement to it. From my perspective, it’s not an either-or situation. Sunless tanning plays a valuable role in both categories, depending on the client’s needs, lifestyle, and goals.

Sunless as an Alternative: For clients who prefer to avoid UV exposure, have time constraints, or need immediate color for an event, sunless tanning stands on its own as a complete solution. It offers customizable depth, instant gratification, and a predictable outcome — making it a true alternative for those who want a bronzed look without UV sessions.

Sunless as a Complement: At the same time, sunless tanning enhances the experience for UV tanners. Many clients use it to boost their base tan, even out stubborn areas, or achieve a deeper shade for special occasions. When paired with UV tanning, sunless becomes a finishing touch that elevates the overall result. In this way, it complements UV services rather than competing with them. In my salon, we offer both UV tanning and Sunless tanning options, and have a different clientele for each service.

Christine Nelson Glo Tanning Spa

Spray tanning has been in use for quite some time. How long did it take for you to “master” all of the nuances of spray (cleaning, expected results, differences in solutions, etc?) How have your customer results changed over the years?

When we first opened in 2017, we only offered custom airbrush spray tans— no automatic spray booth. While our customers loved their results, many

asked about automatic sprays because they felt self-conscious or didn’t want anyone seeing them naked. We quickly realized that adding an automatic spray tan booth wouldn’t just make our customers more comfortable—it would also save time, increase revenue, and reduce staffing needs. Instead of scheduling an extra employee just for sprays, our team could focus fully on the customer experience for EVERY customer that came in. We invested in a VersaSpa, and within six months, it had completely paid for itself. When we opened our second and third locations, adding a sunless spray booth was an easy decision. Demand grew so quickly that we ended up adding a second booth at one of those locations as well. This past year, we knew it was time to upgrade to the new and improved version of our original one— and the difference has been huge.

We’re seeing more sunless EFT signups than ever before. Customers are upgrading their tanning memberships to our “All Access” memberships because they now have the option to use WellFit features like Hydrate and Lift—something many of them wouldn’t have considered before. As times change, we’re noticing that customers want fast, easy, and effective solutions. Everyone is busy and wants results now. Switching to a rapid solution that allows for a quick rinse has significantly boosted our sales and customer satisfaction. What truly sets our salon apart from competitors is education and Sun is Life certification is a great start. Our staff is also fully trained on all spray tan options, the differences between solutions, proper pre- and postcare, and how to confidently walk a first-time customer through the booth experience. We treat every customer as if they are the only one spending money with us—giving them our full, undivided attention. We also strongly believe in hands-on experience. Having staff personally try the booth and different solutions makes a huge

SALON PROSE

difference. Even if they choose to rinse it off right away (though we’re not sure why they would!), experiencing it firsthand helps them better educate and reassure customers.

Victoria Cordes Bear Naked Tanning

After 11 years in spray tanning, I’ve learned that mastery is an ongoing process rather than a finish line, though it took about a year of daily hands-on work to feel truly confident in the fundamentals. Over time, I’ve gained a deep respect for the chemistry of solutions, the importance of skin health, and how preparation and aftercare directly impact results. My client outcomes have evolved from simply achieving color to creating balanced, natural-looking tans that support overall skin wellness. Today, every application is intentional, customized, and rooted in both experience and care!

Kristy Mazeika Tan Oconee

I wouldn’t say we’ve ever fully “mastered” spray tanning — because the truth is, it’s an evolving process with constant learning — but we’ve absolutely refined our systems over

time. Early on, there was a learning curve with cleaning protocols, equipment maintenance, solution performance, and understanding how different skin types and prep routines affect results. What’s made the biggest difference for us has been consistency and standardization. We’ve learned that sticking with the VersaPro booth and VersaPro solutions delivers the most reliable, predictable, and highquality results for our clients. That consistency has allowed us to control variables, improve outcomes, and build trust. There will always be occasional maintenance hiccups — that’s part of any equipment-based service — but our focus is on quick diagnosis, fast fixes, and transparent communication. Because of that, client results have become more consistent, more natural-looking, and more dependable over the years.

The biggest evolution in spray tanning hasn’t just been technical — it’s operational: better systems, better training, faster problem-solving, and a stronger commitment to quality control. That’s what has truly elevated client results and long-term trust.

Patty Warren Co-Owner | Image Sun Tanning Blue Springs

Tired of

Managing Payroll, HR, and

Hiring

Alone?

How Smart Salon Owners Are Reclaiming Time (And Their Sanity)

Disconnected systems and poor support are out. Reliable tools and real help are in.

Running a salon should be about people, not paperwork

We hear this often from salon owners: “We were nervous to make a change because of how bad things had gone before.” Many had a provider that overpromised but underdelivered. When problems came up, there was no one to call, no follow-up, and no real help. Some even faced serious issues like taxes not being filed correctly.

We talk to salon owners every day who felt stuck, stressed, and unsure of what to do next. Many of them trusted a provider that promised to make things easier but ended up making things harder.

When problems came up—like payroll mistakes, system errors, or even missed tax filings—they had no one to call. The person who sold them the service stopped answering, and support was slow or unhelpful. These owners were left to fix big problems alone. Some waited on hold for hours or had to explain the same issue to different people. It was frustrating and unfair.

Here’s what we hear most:

Most salon systems are hard to use and don’t work well together. You waste time entering the same info again and again. Support is often missing. You need tools that are simple, connected, and backed by real people who are there when you need help.

“Our biggest frustration was the lack of customer service and follow-up. We experienced a wide variety of issues that even ranged to our taxes not being filed properly. The salesperson who previously sold the deal ended up being nowhere to be found.”

Glo Tanning CEO, Onyi Odunukwe

. Hiring and Onboarding Still Involves Binders and aperwork

1. Hiring and Onboarding Still Involves Binders and Paperwork

3 You’re Still the One Making Sure Everyone

Correctly

The Five Biggest Time-Wasters For Tanning Salon Owners (And What To Do About Them)

Hiring in salons happens a lot Whether it’s a busy season or omeone just left, you ’ re probably bringing in new people ften. If you ’ re still using paper packets, printing forms, and ollecting signatures in person, it can slow everything down Mistakes happen more often and managers spend extra ime doing tasks that could be easier

1. Hiring And Onboarding Still Involves Binders And Paperwork

Hiring in salons happens a lot Whether it’s a busy season or someone just left, you ’ re probably bringing in new people often If you ’ re still using paper packets, printing forms, and collecting signatures in person, it can slow everything down Mistakes happen more often and managers spend extra time doing tasks that could be easier.

Payroll can be stressful when you ’ re doing it all yourself. You may be checking timecards, making sure special rates are correct, or fixing problems before payday This can take hours each pay period and leaves room for mistakes

The Five Biggest Time-Wasters for Tanning Salon Owners (And What to Do About Them)

Hiring in salons is a regular occurrence. Whether it’s a busy season or someone just left, you’re probably bringing in new people on a somewhat regular basis.

The Five Biggest Time-Wasters for Tanning Salon Owners (And What to Do About Them)

Payroll can be stressful when you ’ re doing it all yourself You may be checking timecards, making sure special rates are correct, or fixing problems before payday This can take hours each pay period and leaves room for mistakes.

double-checking numbers, or fixing small mistakes that take too much time. When systems don’t share information, it slows everyone down.

est Practice: Many salons now use digital tools for hiring nd onboarding These tools let new hires apply online, fill ut forms, and complete tasks from their phones. This means everything is ready before their first day It saves me, lowers the chance of errors, and helps new team members feel ready to work right away.

Best Practice :

Best Practice: Many salons now use digital tools for hiring and onboarding These tools let new hires apply online, fill out forms, and complete tasks from their phones This means everything is ready before their first day It saves time, lowers the chance of errors, and helps new team members feel ready to work right away.

4. You’re Fielding Every PTO Request And Shift Swap

Best Practice: Many salons switch to payroll systems that handle these tasks for them These systems can apply the right pay rates, catch errors, and handle taxes without extra work It gives you peace of mind and saves time

1 Hiring and Onboarding Still Involves Binders and Paperwork

1 Hiring and Onboarding Still Involves Binders and Paperwork

Best Practice: Many salons switch to payroll systems that handle these tasks for them These systems can apply the right pay rates, catch errors, and handle taxes without extra work It gives you peace of mind and saves time

3 You’re Still the One Making Sure Everyone Gets Paid Correctly

3 You’re Still the One Making Sure Everyone Gets Paid Correctly

Hiring in salons happens a lot Whether it’s a busy season or someone just left, you ’ re probably bringing in new people often If you ’ re still using paper packets, printing forms, and collecting signatures in person, it can slow everything down Mistakes happen more often and managers spend extra time doing tasks that could be easier

Hiring in salons happens a lot Whether it’s a busy season or someone just left, you ’ re probably bringing in new people often If you ’ re still using paper packets, printing forms, and collecting signatures in person, it can slow everything down Mistakes happen more often and managers spend extra time doing tasks that could be easier

2 Your Systems Don’t Talk to Each Other

If you’re still using paper packets, printing forms, and collecting signatures in person, it can slow everything down. Mistakes happen more often and managers spend extra time doing tasks that could be easier.

Best Practice:

2 Your Systems Don’t Talk to Each Other

If your scheduling app, payroll provider, time clock, and point-of-sale system don’t connect, you might be doing the same work more than once That could mean retyping hours, checking numbers again, or fixing small mistakes that take too much time. When systems don’t share information, it slows everyone down

f your scheduling app, payroll provider, time clock, and oint-of-sale system don’t connect, you might be doing the ame work more than once. That could mean retyping ours, checking numbers again, or fixing small mistakes that ake too much time When systems don’t share information, t slows everyone down.

Using one connected system or linking your tools can make a big difference. When data flows between platforms, you don’t have to re-enter it. This saves time and makes sure pay, hours, and records are more accurate.

Best Practice: Many salons now use digital tools for hiring and onboarding These tools let new hires apply online, fill out forms, and complete tasks from their phones This means everything is ready before their first day It saves time, lowers the chance of errors, and helps new team members feel ready to work right away

Many salons now use digital tools for hiring and onboarding. These tools let new hires apply online, fill out forms, and complete tasks seamlessly from their phones. This means everything is ready before their first day. It saves time, lowers the chance of errors, and helps new team members feel ready to work right away.

Best Practice: Many salons now use digital tools for hiring and onboarding These tools let new hires apply online, fill out forms, and complete tasks from their phones This means everything is ready before their first day It saves time, lowers the chance of errors, and helps new team members feel ready to work right away

2 Your Systems Don’t Talk to Each Other

3 You’re Still the One Making Sure Everyone Gets Paid Correctly

Payroll can be stressful when you ’ re doing it all yourself You may be checking timecards, making sure special rates are correct, or fixing problems before payday This can take hours each pay period and leaves room for mistakes

Payroll can be stressful when you ’ re doing it all yourself You may be checking timecards, making sure special rates are correct, or fixing problems before payday This can take hours each pay period and leaves room for mistakes

1 Hiring and Onboarding Still Involves Binders and Paperwork

4. You’re Fielding Every PTO Request and Shift Swap.

4 You’re Fielding Every PTO Request and Shift Swap

Handling every time-off request and shift change by hand takes a lot of time It also slows down your day when you have to answer every question or update every schedule yourself

Payroll can be stressful when you ’ re doing it all yourself You may be checking timecards, making sure special rates are correct, or fixing problems before payday This can take hours each pay period and leaves room for mistakes

As a manager, you get it. It seems easy to be the one in charge of approving PTO at first glance. Handling every time-off request and shift change by hand takes a lot of time. It also slows down your day when you have to answer every question or update every schedule yourself.

Handling every time-off request and shift change by hand takes a lot of time It also slows down your day when you have to answer every question or update every schedule yourself

Best Practice: Many salons switch to payroll systems that handle these tasks for them These systems can apply the right pay rates, catch errors, and handle taxes without extra work. It gives you peace of mind and saves time.

Best Practice: Many salons switch to payroll systems that handle these tasks for them These systems can apply the right pay rates, catch errors, and handle taxes without extra work It gives you peace of mind and saves time

Hiring in salons happens a lot Whether it’s a busy season or someone just left, you ’ re probably bringing in new people often If you ’ re still using paper packets, printing forms, and collecting signatures in person, it can slow everything down Mistakes happen more often and managers spend extra time doing tasks that could be easier

3. You’re Still The Only One Making Sure Everyone Gets Paid Correctly

Best Practice:

4 You’re Fielding Every PTO Request and Shift Swap

4 You’re Fielding Every PTO Request and Shift Swap

Best Practice: Many salons switch to payroll systems that handle these tasks for them These systems can apply the right pay rates, catch errors, and handle taxes without extra work It gives you peace of mind and saves time

Best Practice: Self-service tools let employees make requests and see their schedules from their phones. Managers still approve changes, but they don’t have to be involved in every small detail This gives staff more control while helping managers focus on bigger tasks

Best Practice: Many salons now use digital tools for hiring and onboarding These tools let new hires apply online, fill out forms, and complete tasks from their phones This means everything is ready before their first day It saves time, lowers the chance of errors, and helps new team members feel ready to work right away

2 Your Systems Don’t Talk to Each Other

2 Your Systems Don’t Talk to Each Other

Best Practice: Using one connected system or linking your tools can make a big difference When data flows between platforms, you don’t have to re-enter it This saves time and makes sure pay, hours, and records are more accurate

Best Practice: Using one connected system or linking your ools can make a big difference When data flows between latforms, you don’t have to re-enter it This saves time and makes sure pay, hours, and records are more accurate.

4 You’re Fielding Every PTO Request and Shift Swap

Payroll can be stressful when you’re doing it all yourself. You may be checking timecards, making sure special rates are correct, or fixing problems right before payday. This can take hours each pay period and leaves room for mistakes—or even major legal issues.

If your scheduling app, payroll provider, time clock, and point-of-sale system don’t connect, you might be doing the same work more than once That could mean retyping hours, checking numbers again, or fixing small mistakes that take too much time When systems don’t share information, it slows everyone down

Best Practice:

2. Your Systems Don’t Talk To Each Other

Best Practice: Self-service tools let employees make requests and see their schedules from their phones Managers still approve changes, but they don’t have to be involved in every small detail This gives staff more control while helping managers focus on bigger tasks.

Handling every time-off request and shift change by hand takes a lot of time It also slows down your day when you have to answer every question or update every schedule yourself

Handling every time-off request and shift change by hand takes a lot of time It also slows down your day when you have to answer every question or update every schedule yourself

Self-service tools let employees make requests and see their schedules from their phones. Managers still approve changes, but they don’t have to be involved in every small detail. This gives staff more control while helping managers focus on bigger tasks.

Handling every time-off request and shift change by hand takes a lot of time It also slows down your day when you have to answer every question or update every schedule yourself

If your scheduling app, payroll provider, time clock, and point-of-sale system don’t connect, you might be doing the same work more than once That could mean retyping hours, checking numbers again, or fixing small mistakes that take too much time When systems don’t share information, it slows everyone down

5 When Something Goes Wrong, Support is Nowhere to Be Found

Best Practice: Self-service tools let employees make requests and see their schedules from their phones Managers still approve changes, but they don’t have to be involved in every small detail This gives staff more control while helping managers focus on bigger tasks

Best Practice: Self-service tools let employees make requests and see their schedules from their phones Managers still approve changes, but they don’t have to be involved in every small detail This gives staff more control while helping managers focus on bigger tasks

5. When Something Goes Wrong, Support is Nowhere to Be Found

5. When Something Goes Wrong, Support Is Nowhere To Be Found

If your scheduling app, payroll provider, time clock, and point-of-sale system don’t connect, you might be doing the same work more than once That could mean retyping hours, checking numbers again, or fixing small mistakes that take too much time When systems don’t share information, it slows everyone down

Best Practice: Using one connected system or linking your tools can make a big difference When data flows between platforms, you don’t have to re-enter it This saves time and makes sure pay, hours, and records are more accurate

If your scheduling app, payroll provider, time clock, and pointof-sale system don’t connect to each other, you’re probably doing the same work more than once. That could mean retyping hours,

Best Practice: Using one connected system or linking your tools can make a big difference When data flows between platforms, you don’t have to re-enter it This saves time and makes sure pay, hours, and records are more accurate

When a problem comes up, getting help should be easy But if you ’ re waiting on hold or explaining your issue to different people, it just adds more stress

Best Practice: Self-service tools let employees make requests and see their schedules from their phones Managers still approve changes, but they don’t have to be involved in every small detail This gives staff more control while helping managers focus on bigger tasks

When a problem comes up, getting help should be easy But if you ’ re waiting on hold or explaining your issue to different people, it just adds more stress.

5 When Something Goes Wrong, Support is Nowhere to Be Found

5 When Something Goes Wrong, Support is Nowhere to Be Found

Best Practice: Using one connected system or linking your tools can make a big difference When data flows between platforms, you don’t have to re-enter it This saves time and makes sure pay, hours, and records are more accurate

Most salons switch to payroll systems that handle these tasks for them. These systems can apply the right pay rates, catch errors, and handle taxes without extra work. It gives you peace of mind and saves time.

Or call 800-863-8013 to talk to someone who understands

Best Practice: A dedicated support rep who knows your setup can fix issues faster You don’t have to repeat yourself, and problems get solved quickly so you can stay focused on your business.

5 When Something Goes Wrong, Support is Nowhere to Be Found

When a problem comes up, getting help should be easy. But if you’re waiting on hold or explaining your issue to different people, it just adds more stress.

When a problem comes up, getting help should be easy But if you ’ re waiting on hold or explaining your issue to different people, it just adds more stress

When a problem comes up, getting help should be easy But if you ’ re waiting on hold or explaining your issue to different people, it just adds more stress

When a problem comes up, getting help should be easy But if you ’ re waiting on hold or explaining your issue to different people, it just adds more stress

Best Practice:

Best Practice: A dedicated support rep who knows your setup can fix issues faster You don’t have to repeat yourself, and problems get solved quickly so you can stay focused on your business.

Best Practice: A dedicated support rep who knows your setup can fix issues faster You don’t have to repeat yourself, and problems get solved quickly so you can stay focused on your business

Best Practice: A dedicated support rep who knows your setup can fix issues faster You don’t have to repeat yourself, and problems get solved quickly so you can stay focused on your business

A dedicated support rep who knows your setup can fix issues faster. You don’t have to repeat yourself, and problems get solved quickly so you can stay focused on your business.

Best Practice: A dedicated support rep who knows your setup can fix issues faster You don’t have to repeat yourself, and problems get solved quickly so you can stay focused on your business

2026 NU TOUR

MARCH

3/11/26: Woodstock, Ontario

APRIL

4/19/26: Phoenix, AZ

MAY

5/17/26: Chicago, IL

JUNE

6/28/26: Orlando, FL

JULY

7/23/26: Kansas City, MO

the experts

Joe Schuster

In addition to serving as our Editor in Chief, he’s also one of our contributing writers and serves as the Director and Instructor for our Sun is LIfe certification and training.

Quinn Cooper

Quinn Cooper has been a professional in the tanning industry for years, showing his passion for wellness at every turn. He is a proud Senior Account Executive of SUN IS LIFE as well as being a salon owner himself.

Founder of Wellness USA, has spent over three decades guiding salon owners through industry transformation. Under his leadership, Wellness USA became a trusted authority in advanced spa and wellness technologies, empowering businesses to elevate memberships, boost retention, and stand out in competitive marketplaces.

Kristin Smithers, the Red Light Queen™, is a Board Certified Light Therapist through the Board of Advanced Natural Health Sciences. A lifetime SPIE member and WALT member, she’s been active in the tanning industry since 2016 and a salon owner since 2019, blending science with real-world results.

Executive Director of Sun is Life Magazine, Aliesha Colvin, has spent over a decade in the beauty world and the last three of those helping shape the tanning industry’s creative side. Outside of the office, she channels her energy into her photography business and her social media communities –where she platforms others loving the skin they’re in.

Sterling Birdsong is the founder of Lendstra, an SBA Loan Advisory & Brokerage service that helps entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of SBA financing. Visit Lendstra.com to start your path to financing today.

EXPERIENCE

y -where

Indulge yourself in unparalleled comfort with our exclusive promotion on the Fujimi Luxury Massage Chairs! Introducing the EP9000MAX and EP7000S models, designed to bring the spa experience right to your home or business. Elevate your relaxation with advanced 3D massage technology, customizable settings, and heated therapy options for a truly transformative experience. Enjoy soothing massages with a sleek design, zero gravity recline, and a variety of invigorating programs to relieve tension and rejuvenate your body. Don’t miss this opportunity, take advantage with the information provided below.

5 3 7 6 1 9 5 9 8 6 8 6 3 4 8 3 1 7 2 6 6 2 8 4 1 9 5 8 7 9

Word Search GAMES

CELEBRATE SUNLESS WOMANHOOD LEADERSHIP INSPIRE SELF CARE SHINE SPRAY TAN WELLNESS SUPPORT RESILIENCE STRENGTH EMPOWERMENT GLOW COMMUNITY BEAUTY INNOVATION

7 WAVELENGTHS - 605NM, 630NM, 660NM, 670NM, 830NM, 905NM, 940NM

IRRADIANCE - 150-200 MW/CM²

JOULES - 80 - 100

TREATMENT TIME - 10 MINUTES

RESULTS - IMMEDIATE

Sudoku Answers

Word Search Answers