To get that beautiful summer glow before you head to the beach, you may decide to visit a tanning salon. It was once believed that the ultraviolet rays from a tanning bed were safer than the ones coming from the sun. Unfortunately, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (a World Health Organization agency) says that the use of tanning beds is more closely associated with cancer than was once believed. Using a self-bronzer, spray tan or tanning cream may be the safest option. However, if you still want to use a tanning bed, follow some rules to avoid additional risks.
Check Warning Labels
Read the warnings on the tanning lamps in the tanning bed you use. They indicate how much exposure a person with your skin type may get. If you have fairer skin, you should spend less time in the tanning bed than would someone who is naturally darker. This means that individual sessions will be shorter and trips should be made less frequently. Also make sure the bulb is the same as the one that came with the equipment originally.
Examine Salon Qualifications
The salon staff should have their own knowledge about tanning bed safety and be able to tell you about the risks and regulations if you have questions for them. They should also be knowledgeable about their own equipment; the tanning beds at the tanning salon should comply with laws controlling devices that emit radiation. Moreover, salon staff should monitor the cleanliness of all tanning beds, disinfecting them after every use. Inspect the tanning bed and any other tanning equipment you use (e.g., protective eyewear) to make sure it looks and smells clean.
Understand Protective Devices
The tanning bed you use should have a heat shield (a clear plastic sheet). It will help protect your skin from burns due to accidental contact with the tanning lamps. You should also use the proper eye protection to prevent problems such as vision loss, cataracts and photokerititis. Bring your own to tanning salons, but know that they should offer you some. Finally, examine the tanning booth for an emergency shut-off switch so that you can immediately access it if the situation calls for it.
Know When Not to Use One
Certain medications can increase your chances of getting sunburns. If you are taking any medications, speak to a physician before you decide to hop onto a tanning bed. Also talk to a physician if you have any skin conditions, such as rashes and infections. Finally, if you are under the age of 18, you may not be allowed to get on a tanning bed in some states. Many states will allow you to get on a tanning bed if you are 16 or older, so check your individual state laws. The reason young people aren't allowed to get on the bed is because their skin is more likely to be damaged.
Avoid Frequent Use
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, a sun burn can take up to 48 hours to appear on the skin. Likewise, a tan may not show up for 48 hours. Therefore, you should wait at least 48 hours to note any difference in your skin before you hop back on the tanning bed. However, consider tanning as infrequently as possible to reduce your risk of developing cancer.
