Tanning beds are devices that emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation to tan the skin. However, they are not safer than the sun, and they can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. The active ingredient in many fake tan products is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is a color additive that reacts with dead cells in the skins surface to temporarily darken the skin and simulate a tan.
Here are some positive and negative aspects of tanning beds:
Positive:
- Tanning beds can provide a tan without exposure to the sun.
Negative:
- Tanning beds can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
- Tanning beds emit stronger UV radiation levels than the sun, which can damage the skin even faster than UV from the sun.
- Tanning beds can cause immediate skin damage, such as sunburn, irritation, redness, and swelling.
- Tanning beds can cause eye damage and possible immune system changes.
- Tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer before age 35 by 75% .
- Tanning beds are not safer than tanning with the sun.
- Tanning beds can cause DNA damage to skin cells, which can occur without any visible signs of skin damage.
It is important to note that tanning beds are not safe, and there are plenty of safer options available for those looking to stay bronzed throughout the year.
