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Effects Of Tanning Bed
Health Risks from Indoor Tanning
Since indoor tanning is a relatively new phenomenon,
there is little substantive research available regarding
the long term effects of this practice. However, there
has been extensive study conducted on the effects of
over exposure to UVA/UVB light.
The sun is the most natural source of UV light or
ultraviolet radiation, which is technically defined as
that portion of the electro-magnetic spectrum between
x-rays and visible light. UVA and UVB rays are two types
of ultraviolet radiation. Both assist with body’s
production of Vitamin D, but can also have long term
negative consequences.
With the decrease in atmospheric pressure in the ozone
layer, there has been some concern that the instance of
harmful UV exposure has been steadily increasing. This
means that we are at a greater risk for skin cancer and
other UV radiation related effects such as eye damage
and immuno-supression.
Tanning booths emit the same type of radiation as
natural sources, so the effects of using a tanning bed
can be comparable to exposing yourself to excessive
solar radiation. Most tanning beds are calibrated to
emit UVA lights, which is what gives you that nice
golden glow. Long-term effects of UVA exposure include
permanent thickening and discoloring of the skin,
cataracts and premature aging.
The effects of UVA light tend to be more cumulative than
UVB rays, which is why most tanning salons have switched
to UVA calibration. Prior to the switch, salon goers
experienced severe sunburn as a side effect of tanning
bed sessions at a much higher rate. However, even though
the incidence of severe burn has decreased, it is still
advisable to use some type of SPF protection when using
a tanning bed. There are numerous lotions especially
formulated for indoor tanning.
The most significant consequence of UV exposure is the
increased risk of melanoma, which occurs as a result of
internal damage to pigment producing cells (melanin).
Since any UV contact can produce these types of cellular
changes, overusing tanning beds can be just as dangerous
as natural exposure. Preliminary studies indicate that
cellular modification can occur after as little as ten
tanning bed sessions, thus dramatically elevating the
potentiality of melanoma and other forms of skin
cancers.
Polymorphous light eruption is another serious effect of
using tanning beds. Primary symptoms emerge within one
to four days after a session and include itching, red
bumps, pimples and painful blisters. Other unpleasant
effects include erythema (painful redness and swelling
of the skin) and photo conjunctivitis (temporary
blinding of the eye). Long term cosmetic effects include
wrinkles, sunspots and premature aging, which is ironic
since many people patronize tanning salons out of a
desire to look more youthful.
It is also important to note that there are certain
instances in which photosensitivity can be increased. If
you are taking antihistamines, certain antibiotics,
contraceptives or tranquilizers, tanning bed risks can
rise dramatically.
If you’re going to tan indoors, the potential effects of
tanning beds are serious and should not be dismissed
lightly. While indoor tanning is a personal choice, it
should be an informed one.
About the Author
Andrea Pellettiere has been has been a freelance
writer for a number of years. She is a regular a
contributor to http://tanning-beds-n-tanning-lotions.com.
More Tanning Bed Safety Articles
Are Tanning Beds Worth the Risk?
The Debate on Tanning Bed Safety
Should You Use a Tanning Bed While Pregnant?
Preventing Sun Poisoning From Tanning Beds
Health Risks from Indoor Tanning
Should You Use a Tanning Bed Accelerator Lotion?
Do Tanning Beds Really Cause Cancer?
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