Approximately 28 million people in the U.S. tan indoors each year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). The indoor tanning industry has become big business. The AAD says its annual revenue is $5 billion.
The UV (ultraviolet) radiation emitted from the both the sun and indoor tanning has been declared as a carcinogen (cancer-causing agents) by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. However, the Indoor Tanning Association (ITA) maintains that moderate tanning maximizes the potential benefits of sun exposure while minimizing the potential risks associated with either too much or too little sunlight.
Exposure Control
According to the ITA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires indoor tanning devices to provide detailed consumer information about avoiding UV overexposure. The watchdog effects of the FDA decreases the likelihood of spending too much time under UV light. The ITA points out that this level control is impossible to achieve during natural sun exposure.
Less Chance of Sunburn
Indoor tanning may reduce the risk of developing sunburn while enhancing the pleasure and benefit of having a tan. According to TanningFacts.com, it is the responsibility of the tanning salon owner and operator to ensure that patrons are not at risk of sunburn by closely monitoring the the time they spend in a tanning bed or booth.
Protective Eyewear and Lotions
Indoor tanning salons are required to make certain their customers wear protective eyewear that is specifically designed to shield eyes from UV exposure. In addition, TanningFacts.com, says special indoor tanning lotions that contain vitamins and ingredients are strongly recommended to help moisturize skin and prolong a tan.
Base Tan
People who are planning a warm weather vacation sometimes visit indoor tanning salons to get what is referred to as "base tan." This allows vacationers to slowly exposure their skin to UV rays before spending time out in the sun.
