MegaSun started their journey in the UK during the 1980s. As they explained, “We opened our first New Zealand studio in Tauranga in 2003 and Auckland in 2005.
"We got into indoor tanning after a discussion with a leading dermatology professor, Dr. Sam Shuster, who worked in the department next door. He was adamant that sunbeds have a role to play ‘in educated hands’, stating, a suntan is an evolutionary device which protects against burning, is a sign of increased pigment in the skin, and a natural biological response to the sun, not a sign of skin damage. There are many good reasons why we won't and shouldn't give up our tan.”
What conditions can you help with?
We are essentially a cosmetic tanning service, but what sets us apart, are our unique, patented, multi-wavelength hybrid SmartSunlight lamps, powered by CPI® technology. Our lamps all guarantee vitamin D synthesis, we get a number of medical specialists and doctor referrals as they say people benefit from these additional components.
Vitamin D Boosters, have a positive effect on conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, depression and numerous other disorders which can be readily researched. The Blue Light treats acne, blemishes and other skin conditions, the Red Light, also called Collagen softens and strengthens skin. UVA deepens skin colour and UVB creates and maintains skin colour.
We notice you are selling a number of accelerators - how do these help?
Achieving a tan is a complex 28–30 day biologic process. This is where tanning products, (solar cosmetics) generally referred to as accelerators, make a vast difference in accomplishing an outstanding tan and the majority of our clientele use them. Fair skins can increase their tanning ability 42-50%, and darker skins from 50-84%, if they use the products correctly. When UVB hits the skin, it is absorbed more easily, tans faster, produces a much darker tan, and holds the tan much longer if the recommended accelerator is used.
What training do staff need?
Most countries have standard training courses, but sadly New Zealand doesn’t. At megaSun we knew it was imperative to address the lack of training and combined data from global courses. Using our cosmetic science and teaching qualifications, plus our strict training, we took the best of each and created our own Tanning Ambassador Course. We presented this to the Health Licence inspectors who were more than impressed and it was approved. Ongoing education is the key to success for all of us.
What motivates the team?
The list is long so this is a brief precis: Giving clients a premium customer service and delivery that they don't always get elsewhere. Getting compliments from clients who are impressed with the difference we’ve made to their skin and their tan. Educating the team and clients in a happy, relaxed environment.
What feedback do you get from clients?
Word of mouth can be the best or worst feedback. We are truly blessed to receive high praise and positive feedback. In addition to the family, with the addition of new, younger staff popular with clients of all ages, we are getting even more compliments than ever before. Positive reviews and feedback on the sunbeds, studio and MegaTeam, thankfully, speak volumes.
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
We are really proud of the reputation we have built up over the years. Having a new studio with a totally different look, as well as having a new, honest, hardworking, super friendly team, is just the best.
Did you know?
We are dog friendly and have a lot of clients who bring their dogs in. We always have liver treats for our four-legged visitors.
Also, our favourite study for 35 years has been vitamin D.
MEGASUN, 54 Ponsonby Road, T: 09 361 3361, E: suntan@megasun.co.nz