Tanning beds are used as a way for an individual to darken her skin color without the need to be out in the direct sunlight. They have grown in popularity, despite warnings from the medical community of their potential danger due to skin cancer risk. Tanning beds are available for both commercial and home use.
Types
Tanning beds are devices that have special bulbs that can cause the skin to tan as if you are in the sunlight. There are numerous types of tanning beds, including versions that require you to lie in as well as stand up types. Home tanning beds typically have fewer bulbs and a more compact size than commercial versions.
Function
A tanning bed works by exposing the skin to ultraviolet radiation. The ultraviolet radiation exposure causes the skin to produce a chemical called melanin. Melanin production is the reason that the skin tans. The melanin can help protect the skin from further damage from ultraviolet radiation.
Risks
Tanning beds emit ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can put you at risk for numerous problems. Damage from UV rays put a person at risk for skin cancer, including melanoma. Melanoma is the deadliest form of all skin cancers. According to the Health Physics Society website, tanning beds are a known human carcinogen. Exposure to UV rays can damage the skin and cause premature signs of aging, like wrinkles.
Considerations
Certain people are more prone to developing skin cancer through tanning bed use than others. Individuals that have experienced sunburn from a tanning bed have an increased likelihood to develop skin cancer as well as those who frequently use tanning beds to darken skin. Individuals with fair complexions that use tanning beds are also at a higher risk of developing problems.
Misconceptions
A common misconception about tanning beds is that they are safer than sunbathing in natural light. Any exposure to UV rays can damage the skin, regardless of the source. If you want a tan without exposure to UV rays, your alternative is to use a sunless tanning product.
