The dangers of tanning salons lie in the UVA rays causing skin cancer.

The dangers of tanning salons lie in thinking that using tanning beds are less dangerous than tanning outdoors. The myth has been that there are not harmful effects from getting a tan in booths at a salon. However, according to the FDA, the lamps in the beds emit more UVA rays (the tanning rays) than you would get outside creating a risk for malignant melanoma and even possible damage to your immune system. Whether out in the sun or using indoor tanning, you are subjecting yourself to harmful effects that range from premature aging or even death from an aggressive skin cancer.

Exposure to UVA and UVB rays found in tanning beds, or outside, is a hazard to your skin. A doctor would most likely tell you to wear sun block and not tan at all. However, if you do tan it's important to educate yourself on how to be as protected as you can be. Talk to the staff about what sunscreens are tanning bed safe, and limit your exposure. If you have fair skin, don't try to get a dark tan. If you burn outside, you'll burn in a bed also. Burning increases your risk of skin cancer.

Tanning beds seem like such a great way to get a quick tan without the inconvenience of spending hours outside. You don't have to worry about tan lines and you don't have to worry about what you look like in a bathing suit. However, you do have to worry about what the exposure does to your skin and your health. Educating yourself and protection is the best way to help eliminate some potential problems down the line.