Tanning beds are not a safer alternative to outdoor tanning and can increase the risk of skin cancer, eye damage, and premature aging. UV rays damage skin cells, producing more pigment than normal. Spray tan is a safer alternative. There are no regulations on tanning booths, so it’s important to limit time spent in them, wear sunscreen and tanning goggles.
A golden tan is considered attractive in many cultures and a sign of good health. To achieve this year-round look, many people use tanning beds. Just a few minutes every few days can quickly and easily leave a person with darker skin, even in the dead of winter. Some people consider this a safer alternative to tanning outdoors in the sun, but that’s not true. They are at least as dangerous as outdoor tanning, if not more.
Using a tanning bed exposes your skin to incredibly large amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light, both UVA and UVB rays. These rays lead to dangerous amounts of damage to the skin, which is what creates the tan. UV rays damage skin cells, which produce more pigment than normal. The skin is subject to high levels of radiation, even in the short amount of time a person spends in the tanning booth.
Skin damage and exposure to UV rays can increase a person’s risk of skin cancer. Women who tan at least once a month are 55% more likely to develop melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer. Skin cancer is caused by damaged skin cells, often the product of excessive exposure to UVA and UVB rays. Even the use of sunscreen cannot completely eliminate the risk of sun cancer.
The lesser-known dangers of tanning beds can be just as concerning as skin damage. UV rays can cause eye damage, especially if the eyes are not covered by a specially designed pair of glasses. Wearing sunglasses, or even just closing your eyes, will not provide adequate protection. Cataracts, corneal burns, and even damage to the retina are potential risks of tanning without eye protection.
Taking certain types of medications, such as some antibiotics, tranquilizers, and blood pressure medications, can make a person more susceptible to UV rays. Those who have fair skin or who burn easily may also be at a higher risk of serious skin damage. Fortunately, more and more tanning salons are offering a safer alternative. Spray tan can be applied in minutes and provides a healthy looking tan without any risk.
There are no regulations on the use of tanning booths, making them even more dangerous. Despite the risk, some people choose to tan several times a week, greatly increasing the chances of skin damage, premature aging and cancer. Those choosing to tan should remember to use a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) and broad-spectrum protection, wear tanning goggles, and limit the amount of time spent in tanning booths to reduce risks.
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