The Truth About Tanning Beds vs. Sun Exposure

Is the tanning bed worse than the sun?
Tanning beds are worse than lying in the sun. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin, and there is definitely a higher risk of cancer associated with acquiring a tan via tanning bed. UVA rays are also linked to higher rates of leukemia and lymphoma.
Read more on metroderm.org

Many people use tanning beds as a quick and simple method when trying to get a golden glow. But is tanning in a bed actually more secure than sunbathing? Let’s examine the truths and lies about tanning beds and how they affect our skin.

Is a Tanning Bed with 16 Bulbs Good?

The efficiency of a tanning bed is not always determined by the number of bulbs in it. The type and power of the lights should be prioritized. UV radiation, which is emitted by the bulbs in tanning beds, can harm skin and raise the risk of skin cancer. The UV output of the bulbs is used to gauge their power; stronger bulbs have a higher UV output. So, the type and power of the employed bulbs determines if a 16 bulb tanning bed is beneficial or not. How Much Does a Tanning Bed Weigh?

A tanning bed’s weight varies according to its dimensions and features. The weight of a standard home tanning bed is from 150 to 300 pounds. Even heavier beds for commercial tanning can be found. In order to avoid mishaps or injuries, it’s crucial to make sure the floor or surface where the tanning bed is positioned can sustain its weight.

How Natural-Looking Is a Tanning Bed Tan?

You can get a tan in a tanning bed, but it might not seem as natural as one from the sun. Because UV rays from tanning beds are concentrated, they produce a more even tan that might not look as natural. Additionally, tanning beds can hasten the aging process and damage skin, giving the appearance of generally less-healthy skin. How soon after tanning can you take a shower?

It’s advisable to delay taking a shower for at least two hours after sunbathing. This enables the skin to take up the UV rays completely and get a deeper tan. Too soon after tanning, taking a shower can wipe away some of the tan and lessen its color. In order to preserve the tan and keep the skin hydrated, it’s crucial to moisturize the skin after tanning. Is a tanning bed more harmful than the sun?

Yes, to answer briefly. UV radiation from tanning beds can be up to 15 times more potent than UV radiation from the sun at noon. This prolonged UV radiation exposure raises the risk of skin cancer and damages the skin. In fact, even one use of a tanning bed can result in a 20% increase in the risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. Tanning beds are recognized as a Group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization, which implies that they have been linked to human cancer cases.

In conclusion, tanning beds may be a practical way to tan, but they are not a secure substitute for time in the sun. The dangers of skin cancer and aging skin exceed the advantages of a quick tan by a wide margin. Consider utilizing self-tanning products or spending time in the sun while wearing appropriate sun protection if you want to retain a healthy and natural-looking glow.

FAQ
Also, do you get hot in tanning beds?

Yes, tanning beds can make you feel hot because they emit UV rays, which can make your body warm up. This is comparable to how hot your body feels after being in the sun. It’s crucial to remember that prolonged heat exposure in tanning beds can cause dehydration and other health hazards, therefore it’s crucial to adhere to the advice for using tanning beds and drink plenty of water.

Keeping this in consideration, do you have to flip over in a tanning bed?

In order to make sure that both sides of your body receive an equal amount of UV rays when tanning, you should indeed turn over. Flipping the tanning bed over halfway through your session will help prevent uneven tanning and lower the chance of burning. Tanning beds generate UV rays from both the top and bottom. Additionally, it’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s directions and adhere to the suggested application time for your skin type.

Leave a Comment