Tanning beds have become an alternate way to get a tan. Although tanning beds may not look harmful, they can be even more dangerous than natural sunlight. People sometimes become addicted to tanning beds, and as a result, that once-natural, glowing skin turns dry and leathery.
It's better to use sunscreen and tan in natural sunlight for a few minutes than to spend hours in a tanning bed.
Melanoma
The risk for melanoma (skin cancer) increases by 75 percent when people use tanning beds before they are 35 years old. People who use tanning beds more than 10 times per year are 7 times more likely to develop skin cancer. The UV rays in tanning beds damage cells, which causes skin malignancies. UV rays in tanning beds give off 3 times the radiation, compared to natural sunlight.
Premature Aging & Skin Damage
Not only does the overuse of tanning beds damage skin, but it also causes premature aging in both men and women. When UV rays hit skin over a period of time, they break down the collagen in skin and cause skin to sag and wrinkle. When people tan on a regular basis, their skin takes on a dry, leathery look. This causes them to look older than they are.
Eye Damage
Frequent exposure to UV rays in tanning beds could lead to eye damage. If eyes aren't protected during the tanning process, retinal and cornea damage could occur, and people could experience complications. People who experience blurry vision or eye difficulties as a result of overexposure to tanning beds should consult a physician.
Sunburn
One of the most painful complications affiliated with the overuse of tanning beds is sunburn. UV rays burn the skin, which causes pain, redness, blisters and skin peeling. Repetitive sunburns can damage cells, blood vessels and collagen. To avoid sunburn, people should limit their time in tanning beds.
Prevention
The best way to avoid skin damage and to reduce the risk of melanoma is to avoid tanning beds altogether or limit the time spent in tanning beds. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which is healthier for the body. For people who live in remote parts of the world and do not get enough sunlight, light boxes are available for people who suffer from SAD (seasonal affective disorder).
