Dangers of tanning beds Include Skin Cancer

The dangers of tanning beds are can be even more harmful then tanning outside due to higher levels of UVA rays.

The dangers of tanning beds are not always made known when you walk in the front door of that tanning salon. The myth is that tanning salons have fewer negative effects on your skin than the sun, which is simply not true. The truth is, artificial sun can actually prove to be more harmful to you than being outdoors. You put yourself at higher risk of malignant melanoma due to the higher level of UVA rays (tanning rays) sun lamps emit, according to the FDA. Another one of the risks from these rays is potentially damage to your immune system.

The truth is, exposure to the sun, in or out of doors, can be dangerous if you are not cautious. The affects might not be noticeable right away, but nonetheless the hazards still exist. The side effects can be anything from premature aging, to cancer, to even death from an aggressive skin cancer. It's important to note that tanning in a bed does not negate the need to tend to your safety. Your dermatologist most likely will tell you not to tan at all, but if you must, play it safe.

Tanning beds can provide a quick and convenient way to get some color, and seem harmless. However, it's important to educate yourself and talk to the staff about how to protect yourself if you are going to tan. Use sunscreen and limit your exposure, rather than trying to get deep, dark brown. It's more important to protect your skin than to look great with a tan.