Deeply bronzed skin has long been a supposed sign of health and youthfulness. Unfortunately, that healthy glow may be masking the beginnings of an unhealthy future. Sharon Miller, a scientist with the food and drug administration and international expert on UV radiation and tanning, states that any tan is a sign of skin damage. For people who are not willing to give up the short-term glow in spite of long-term health risks, following some tanning bed tips is wise.
Photosensitivity
Exaggerated sunburn or rashes on areas exposed to the tanning bulbs may affect a person who is photosensitive. Photosensitivity occurs as a result of taking certain medications and supplements or using some lotions, shampoos or cosmetics. Your pharmacist can inform you as to whether any item you use puts you at risk of a photosensitive reaction. According to Tanningfacts.com, anyone can have a photosensitive reaction, but some groups are more susceptible, including those with red, blonde or light brown hair; green- or blue-eyed individuals and people who have experienced severe burns in the past.
Clean the Bed
Take your own antibacterial spray or wipes with you to clean the tanning bed. According to Dr. Karen Rothman, a dermatologist, pediatrician and board member of the Massachusetts Academy of Dermatology, outbreaks of warts and herpes have occurred in tanning salons. Many tanning salons are vigilant in seeing that their beds are disinfected after each use, but it is best to be safe. Wipe the bed thoroughly, including the pillow. Dry it well before use.
Lotion
Apply a lotion specially made for tanning bed use. TanningAdvisor.com says that these lotions typically contain an amino acid that helps your body to produce melanin, a compound that accelerates tanning. Take a shower before tanning, using an exfoliating shower gel or loofah scrubber. Exfoliating the skin removes dead skin cells, leaving a smooth surface on which to apply the lotion. Lotion may be applied before and after tanning since the tanning process continues after the exposure.
Goggles
Use tanning bed goggles when tanning. They help protect the delicate area around the eye from burning and future wrinkling.
Sensitive Areas
Protect sensitive areas from exposure to the tanning rays. Cover your breasts and genital area with a small towel or wear a bathing suit top and bottom.
Time
Do not attempt to get a deep bronze tan in one appointment. Master Tanning advises that you begin with five-minute increments, eventually building up to no more than 20 minutes at one time. This lessens your chance of burning and suffering the harmful effects associated with it.
