How harmful are tanning beds?

Studies have linked tanning bed use to an increased risk of all forms of skin cancers. Your risk can go up as much as 15% for every four tanning bed visits. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that there’s a 75% increased risk of developing life-threatening melanoma from just one indoor tanning session before age 35.

Are tanning beds dangerous in moderation?

Are Tanning Beds Safe in Moderation? The short answer is no. Tanning beds can absolutely cause skin cancer.

Is there a safe way to tan in a tanning bed?

1. Keep Your Tanning Sessions Short and Infrequent. Depending on the types of bulbs your tanning bed is equipped with, it can output much more damaging UVA light than natural sunlight. According to UnityPoint Health, tanning beds can emit up to 12 times more UVA radiation than sunlight.

Are tanning beds worse than the sun?

Tanning beds are worse than lying in the sun. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin, and there is definitely a higher risk of cancer associated with acquiring a tan via tanning bed. UVA rays are also linked to higher rates of leukemia and lymphoma.

What are safer alternatives to tanning beds?

Cost wise, professional spray tanning is comparable to using a tanning bed, without the damaging UV rays. At-home tanning lotions are also inexpensive, and some even have SPF which protects your skin. Bronzer swept across your brow and cheek bones can also give you an instant and safe tan.

How can I tan without damaging my skin?

To help protect your skin from the damage caused by UV light, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends you:

  1. Use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher if you plan to be outside longer than 20 minutes.
  2. Don’t burn.
  3. Avoid tanning booths and beds that use damaging ultraviolet light.

Can you tan in a healthy way?

“Simply put, there is no such thing as a safe or healthy tan.” Skin cell damage not only increases your risk of developing skin cancer but also accelerates wear and tear on your skin, such as wrinkles and sagging.

What is the safest tanning method?

Use self-tanner The only safe way to tan is to use a self-tanning product or get a spray tan. Most self-tanning products and sprays are safe and FDA approved. These cosmetics do not penetrate the skin to cause harm like UV rays, and instead, just coat the outer layer.