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Medical and public health professionals have been warning people about the harmful tanning bed effects on the body for quite some time now. According to them, the ultraviolet (UV) rays released by tanning bed lamps can damage the skin. Several researchers have also suggested a link between UV radiation and malignant melanoma, a dangerous type of cancer. This can happen on account of overexposure to tanning bed rays or on account of skin sensitivity.
These rays can also cause the skin to age prematurely and get a leathery, wrinkled look. In some cases, the UV rays can damage the immune system too. Another danger is drying or chapping of skin, and constant skin irritation. This can happen after every session. However, most tanning bed users, especially the youth, do not take these warnings seriously. They continue to overindulge themselves in the hope of a great tan without realizing that the ageing of skin or cancer may not appear till years later, when they have reached the middle age. Another interesting thing about tanning beds is that it affects different people differently. The individuals who are likely to suffer the most are those who have very fair skins. In contrast, individuals with a dark skin may not suffer so much. However, it is always advisable to follow the specifications given in the manual regarding the exposure time. Users can also consult the staff of tanning salons to find out the right exposure time. They can guide users based on the kind of skin, the kind of tanning bed and the tanning lamp used. All those who have a sensitive skin, red hair or freckles, or are under the age of 16 must avoid tanning. Those who have a lot of moles or lesions, or those who use medications or creams that make the skin more sensitive should also avoid it. Also, people with a family history of cancer must keep away from tanning beds. |
