JULY 15, 2009 — Fully 5 of 6 indoor tanning operators believe that their tanning clients sunburned less often during the early July North American holidays than did non-tanners, according to the results of a SmartTan.com poll conducted in the week following the holidays.

“Every poll ever conducted on this topic — of tanners and non-tanners and of tanning facility operators — shows that tanners sunburn less often than do non-tanners,” Smart Tan Vice President Joseph Levy said. “This result re-affirms that belief.”

According to the poll, 83 percent felt tanners sunburned less often during the July holidays, while only 6 percent felt that tanners sunburned more often outdoors. Another 11 percent felt there was no difference between the two groups.

Having a suntan is the body’s natural protection against sunburn, as melanin serves to protect skin cells from sunburn by natural design. People with tans who use sunscreen outdoors actually multiply the effectiveness of the sunscreen in preventing sunburn as compared to non-tanners who use sunscreen.

“Those who contend that base tans aren’t protective against sunburn are denying biology and are ignoring what is really happening outside,” Levy said. “Base tans make sunscreen 3-4 times more effective at preventing sunburn. Base tans work.”