Tanning beds have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people strive to achieve the perfect tan. The plus side to using tanning beds is they can be used to achieve a consistent and even tan without having to spend hours in the sun. They can also be used year-round, without having to worry about the weather outside. However, there are many risks associated with using tanning beds that should be considered before baking under their UV rays.
UV Radiation
The main risk associated with tanning beds is the UV radiation. The UV rays emitted by tanning beds can damage your skin cells, causing premature aging, wrinkles, and especially skin cancer. The UV rays from tanning beds penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin than if you were to lay out in the sun, so tanning beds significantly increase your risk of developing skin cancer, as well as other types of cancer. These UVA rays are also linked to higher rates of leukemia and lymphoma. In fact, the World Health Organization has classified tanning beds as a Group 1 carcinogen – meaning that they are just as dangerous as smoking cigarettes.
Skin Dehydration and Aging
Beyond the obvious risk of UV radiation exposure causing skin cancers, the UV rays can also cause premature aging of the skin, increase your risk of developing wrinkles, and cause dehydration and dryness of the skin. Overexposure to both UVA and UVB rays speeds up your skin’s aging process, which increases wrinkles, leathery skin, and photo-aging. This happens when the UV rays break down your skin’s elasticity and collagen fibers, leading to sags and folds in the skin. Not only that, but the UV radiation from the heat lamps are known for their ability to dry out the top layer of skin, known as the epidermis. As a result, your skin can start to feel itchy, prickly, and scaly.
If you're considering using a tanning bed, it's important to speak with a dermatologist first to fully understand the risks involved. Remember: your skin is your body's largest organ, and it deserves to be treated with care.