Since their introduction in the 1970s, tanning beds have increased in popularity in the United States and other industrialized countries. Traditionally, you had to go to a tanning salon in order to use a tanning bed. Now, however, tanning beds are available to purchase for home use. Though the concept is convenient, a home tanning bed still poses major risks to your health.
Types
There are two styles of home tanning beds you can choose from: the standard bed style or a booth that you stand in. All home tanning beds are equipped with Plexiglas-covered bulbs that tan your entire body. The UV wattage of these bulbs varies from 100 to 160. The lower the wattage, the more bulbs the tanning bed will have. Stand-up booths tend to have fewer UV bulbs.
Features
Both types of tanning beds are composed of a combination of wood, steel and plastic. All home tanning beds come with timers, similar to the ones that commercial tanning beds use. You can spend more money on extra features, such as a mister, a fan and a radio.
Cost
Tanning beds are easily purchased in person at stores as well as from online retailers. Tanningbedspro.com cautions that you should look for tanning beds that are designed for home use and not for tanning salons. The cost varies depending on the number of UV bulbs and the features you choose. A basic tanning bed can cost as little as $2,000, while a more advanced one can cost $10,000.
Benefits
Purchasing a tanning bed for your home provides you with the convenience of tanning whenever you want. Also, you do not have to worry about privacy or cleanliness issues. A home tanning bed may also save you money in the long run, especially if you are an avid tanner. In general, tanning beds are beneficial to tanners during times when they cannot get outdoors or during the winter months when it is not feasible to tan under the natural sun.
Warning
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, tanning bed use increases your risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Also, tanning beds increase other forms of skin cancer by as much as 2.5 times. In addition, tanning causes your skin to wrinkle prematurely. If you tan to look younger, the resulting skin damage can actually make you look older over time.
Prevention/Solution
Despite the risks, home tanning beds are appealing to many people. There are a few steps you can take to minimize skin damage. First, Buzzle.com recommends that your indoor tanning sessions not exceed 30 minutes. Wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Purchase protective goggles from a tanning salon to prevent eye damage. Foods rich in beta-carotene may reduce skin damage, but should not replace other protective measures.
