Features

Tanning beds use UV lights in order to stimulate the production of melanin, a pigment made by the body to darken the skin. Older tanning beds used short-ray UV lights, which burn the skin more easily than the long-ray UV lights most often used today. UV light is present in natural light as well, but the UV light in tanning beds is three times more concentrated than the UV radiation in sunlight. Most tanning beds use 95 to 98 percent UV lighting. UV radiation is an invisible form of energy that exists in the spectrum between x-rays and visible light and is subject to regulation by the FDA.

Effects

When skin is exposed to UV light, the body begins to produce a brown pigment called melanin to protect itself. The FDA classifies all tanning as a form of skin damage because the production of melanin does not occur unless UV exposure has reached damaging levels. Over time, tanning can prematurely age skin or even cause skin cancer.

Benefits

Five to 15 minutes of exposure to the UV lights is known to increase vitamin D levels in the body and to help prevent seasonal depression, according to the World Health Organization. Certain skin conditions can also be relieved with UV phototherapy (light therapy). These conditions include psoriasis, eczema and some forms of acne. Treatment must be administered by a dermatologist, not by tanning technicians, and often occurs in combination with prescription creams and medications.

Warnings

UV light exposure can be dangerous. UV exposure can cause skin cancer, burning and permanent damage to the eyes. Tanning salons are required by federal regulation to provide coverings for the eyes to block the UV rays, and to warn clients of other potential health dangers of UV exposure. To minimize risk, it is best to tan in small increments on an infrequent basis or not at all.

Considerations

Before choosing to tan under UV lights in a tanning bed, ask whether the lights give off short or long UV rays. Long UV rays are safer. Consider cosmetic solutions such as spray-on self-tanning products or liquid foundation makeup. Tanning to prevent a burn while on a vacation at a seaside resort or sunny location is not effective. Anyone can burn from prolonged exposure to UV rays, even people who use tanning beds. Instead of using a tanning bed, consider buying and using a potent sunscreen instead.

Source:

FDA: Tanning

American Cancer Society: Tanning Beds May Increase Skin Cancer Risk

Vanderbuilt University: Do Tanning Beds Cause Skin Cancer and Other Harmful Effects

More Information:

FTC Facts for Consumers: Indoor Tanning