Monday, October 18, 2010

Harmful Effects of Tanning Beds




There has been a lot of controversy recently regarding indoor tanning beds and their safety.  To better understand the effects of tanning booths we must have a better understanding of the two types of ultraviolet radiation, UVB and UVA. The UVB rays are the sunburn rays.  UVA are the “tanning rays” and although they do not cause sunburn they penetrate the skin deeper and cause more damage.

One of the most dangerous effects of tanning beds is that people may think they are safer than the sun and therefore expose their skin longer than they would on the beach. Overexposure to UV radiations on a tanning bed damages the skin and our eyes and can even potentially lead to developing malignant melanoma. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatologists has found that there is a 75% increase in the risk of melanoma in those who have been exposed to UV radiation from indoor tanning.

There is also a myth that indoor tanning salons are good because they give our body Vitamin D which keeps our skin and bones healthy. Although Vitamin D is necessary, only a very small amount of sunlight is needed for our body to make it. There is no need for a suntan.

The harmful effects (aging skin and cancer) of tanning beds are often not seen until later in life giving the illusion that they are safe and cause no harm.  Dr. Badia never recommends her patients to use tanning salons.  However, for those of us who still feel the need to have a “healthy glow”, Dr. Badia recommends the self tanner lotions or spray tans.

Hope to see you soon.

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