Tanning Beds, Skin Cancer Linked

"Tanning beds skin cancer" - four words that no one wants to talk about. Many people only associate skin damage of any kind with being outside in the sun or some sort of chemical accident. However, this really is a falsehood. The reason people believe tanning indoors is healthier is because the sun lamps on the booths filter out UVB rays, which are the rays that make you more susceptible to burn. Repeated sunburns do increase your risk for skin damage or cancer. However, the sun lamps in the beds have higher levels of UVA rays, the tanning rays. The FDA has released statistics about the increase of UVA rays in the beds. These findings state that the high levels of UVA rays put people at a higher risk for malignant melanoma and possibly immune system damage.

Part of the problem with artificial tanning is that people don't educate themselves on the possible risks. When tanning for the first time in a salon, talk with the staff about your skin type. If you burn outdoors, you can still burn - even severely - in a salon. Much of the medical information now is to avoid tanning altogether, indoors or out. However, if you are going to tan, follow precautions to take care of your skin.

Tanning beds are a great modern convenience to get a little color without spending a lot of time outside and risking a burn. No tan lines, privacy, and a year round tan are great. However, it's not worth the cost if you go in without protecting yourself. Take some time and educate yourself on what's best for you and your skin, then the golden glow won't come with a high price.