For decades, using a tanning bed has been a common way to get a sun-kissed look. However, many individuals are doubting the safety of tanning beds, particularly when it comes to having one in their own house, given the rising worries regarding skin cancer. So, is having a tanning bed in your home safe? Here is why the answer is no.
UV radiation from tanning beds harms skin and raises the risk of skin cancer. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), indoor tanning raises the risk of melanoma—the most lethal type of skin cancer—by 59%. Additionally, a study indicated that those who use tanning beds before the age of 35 have a 75% higher risk of developing melanoma. This study was published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
Additionally, using tanning beds might result in early wrinkling, sunspots, and aging. The UV rays harm the collagen in the skin, which results in a loss of firmness and suppleness. Accordingly, frequent use of tanning beds can hasten the aging process of the skin, resulting in wrinkles and sunspots.
So, what are the options if tanning beds are not safe? Self-tanning products are a fantastic substitute for tanning beds. They offer a tan that looks natural while blocking dangerous UV rays. DHA, a colorless substance included in self-tanners, interacts with the amino acids on the surface of the skin to produce a brown hue. They come in a variety of forms, such as lotions, sprays, and mousse.
It’s crucial to remember that 20 minutes in a tanning bed is equivalent to two hours in the sun if you’re still determined to obtain a tan there. This means that even a brief tanning bed session can seriously harm the skin.
Finally, it’s important to remember that, unlike tanning beds, self-tanners do not prematurely age the skin. Self-tanners only have an impact on the skin’s outermost layer, which is composed of dead skin cells. In contrast, tanning beds harm the skin’s deeper layers, causing early aging and a higher risk of skin cancer.
In conclusion, owning a tanning bed at home is not cost-effective and nor safe. Choose self-tanners instead, or embrace your natural skin tone. By using sunscreen, staying away from tanning booths, and finding shade during the hottest part of the day, you can shield your skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation.