People looking for a sun-kissed radiance frequently visit tanning salons. However, when did tanning beds become popular? The first tanning salon opened in Europe in the 1970s, but tanning salons didn’t gain popularity in the US until the 1980s. Early tanning beds were constructed using low-pressure mercury vapor lamps, which mostly emitted UV-A light. Because they emit less UV-B radiation, which is linked to skin cancer, these beds were thought to be safer than conventional sunbathing. Studies have now revealed that UV-A radiation can also harm skin and raise the chance of developing skin cancer.
A study by the American Academy of Dermatology found that roughly 35% of American adults and about 59% of college students have used tanning beds. Skin cancer incidence rates have significantly increased, especially among young women, as a result of the popularity of tanning beds. In fact, it is believed that indoor tanning contributes to more than 400,000 new cases of skin cancer each year in the US.
Tanning is still a common pleasure for many individuals despite the health dangers. American consumers actually spend more than $5 billion annually on tanning goods and services. This covers both tanning salon visits and the use of self-tanning creams, sprays, and mousse.
Spray tanning is becoming more and more popular as a substitute for traditional tanning beds. Spray tanning involves misting the skin with a DHA (dihydroxyacetone) solution. A brief tan is created by DHA’s reaction with the amino acids in the epidermis of the skin. Because spray tans don’t produce UV radiation, they are thought to be safer than tanning beds. Additionally, spray tans can be tailored to a precise shade and last between 5 and 10 days.
In conclusion, tanning salons have existed since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that they gained popularity in the US. The United States spends billions of dollars annually on tanning products and services, despite the health hazards linked with indoor tanning. However, as a safer alternative to conventional tanning beds, spray tanning has gained favor recently.
Daily sunbed use is not advised due to the increased risk of skin cancer and skin damage. The World Health Organization warns against using UV tanning equipment for aesthetic reasons. To protect your skin, it’s critical to exercise caution and reduce your exposure to UV radiation from both natural and man-made sources.