While some believe tanning in a bed is safer, tanning beds emit 12 times more UVA radiation than the sun. UVA rays are primarily linked to premature aging of the skin, causing wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Using tanning beds before age 35 also increases your risk of developing malignant melanoma by 75%.
Science tells us that there's no such thing as a safe tanning bed, tanning booth, or sun lamp. Indoor tanning can increase the risk of developing the two most common types of skin cancer — squamous cell carcinoma by 58% and basal cell carcinoma by 24%.
While both sunbeds and sunbathing pose risks due to UV exposure, sunbeds are often considered more dangerous due to the concentrated doses of UVA radiation and the controlled environment that encourages prolonged exposure. It's advisable to limit or avoid both practices to reduce the risk of skin damage and cancer.
Ten minutes in a sunbed can be roughly equivalent to 1-2 hours in natural sunlight, depending on factors like sunbed intensity and skin type. However, this varies widely based on geographical location, time of day, and weather conditions. Always adhere to recommended exposure times to minimise skin damage risks.
Several health benefit claims such as improved appearance, enhanced mood, and increased vitamin D levels have been attributed to tanning. Furthermore, the Indoor Tanning Association claims that “catching some rays may lengthen your life” [5].
Moderate tanning of 2-3 sessions a week is OK for everyone else but ensure you rest the skin for a minimum of 24 hours between each session and at least 48 hours for skin type 2. The European Standard advises not to exceed 60 sessions per annum.
For instance, individuals with fair to medium skin tones may achieve satisfactory results in approximately 6 minutes on a sunbed. However, it's crucial to adjust the duration based on skin sensitivity and tanning goals.
Indoor tanning speeds up skin aging
Indoor tanning is known to cause wrinkles, brown spots and thick leathery skin. Indoor tanning ages your skin 3 times faster than sunlight: indoor tanning can emit up to 15 times more UV radiation than sunlight.
no! A tanning bed will never provide you with the vitamin D that you need, nor is it safer than tanning outdoors. Not understanding the facts can literally mean the difference between life and death. Both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation cause cell damage that can lead to skin cancer.
Avoid using harsh or fragranced products immediately after tanning, as they may further irritate the skin.
There is no such thing as a safe tan. The increase in skin pigment, called melanin, which causes the tan color change in your skin is a sign of damage. Why it happens: Once skin is exposed to UV radiation, it increases the production of melanin in an attempt to protect the skin from further damage.
Although using sunbeds can initially dry out the skin and reduce pimple production, this excessive drying may stimulate the skin to actually produce more oil to compensate. As the sebaceous glands in the skin develop more oil, pores are more likely to become clogged, leading to breakouts later down the line.
Best Positions to Get an Even Tan
Start Flat: Begin your session lying flat on your back. This position exposes the largest surface area of your body to UV rays. Leg Lift: After some time, lift your legs slightly.
Absolutely yes! You should treat the underlying skin as if it is fully exposed to the sun. In fact, it may be even more vital to wear sunblock under tan through swimwear and clothing because some of that skin has never been exposed to the sun at all.
It's crucial to recognise that the health benefits associated with exposure to natural sunlight, such as heightened Vitamin D production, diminished inflammation, improved skin conditions, reduced blood pressure, and enhanced heart health, can be effectively replicated through sunbed use.
Opt for sunless self-tanners or spray tans. These are available in many forms, including lotions, sprays, and creams. The Skin Cancer Foundation advocates that no tan is a safe tan, and that regardless of whether women decide to go with their own glow or use sunless tanning methods, they avoid UV tanning.
Using a sunbed isn't safer than sunbathing. Sunbeds are sometimes marketed as a way of getting a 'safer tan'. But this isn't true. There is no such thing as safe tanning from UV radiation.
How Long Does It Take to Get A Tan? Usually, the results are noticeable after three tanning sessions, but it may take a few weeks of consistency to get a defined tan (at least 3-4 times weekly). If you are preparing a base tan before going on a holiday, consider starting tanning three weeks prior.
Papaya: Like carrots, orange fruits and vegetables, such as papaya, help to enhance your tan naturally thanks to its high beta-carotene levels. Melon: This refreshing fruit, rich in antioxidants and beta-carotenes will help you to keep your golden skin tone.
Myth: You Get Vitamin D From Tanning Beds
As warm and cozy as a tanning bed may feel, Green says that a tanning bed is incapable of providing the healthy required amount of vitamin D needed.
Wear either underwear or a bikini. Some people also choose to tan naked, but if you're going down this route, ensure you take extra care of your more sensitive areas to prevent burning. Protect any tattoos you have with recommended balms, especially if you've had them done recently.
The only way to tan safely is by using self-tanning sprays or lotions. Fortunately, self-tanners have come a long way since the days when they left skin streaky and the color of orange cheese-puffs. Self-tanning products are safe and generally don't cause irritation to the skin.