If you’re considering visiting a tanning bed to achieve that perfectly bronzed, classic movie-star skin tone, think again. Indoor tanning is not only harmful to your skin but also extremely dangerous to your health. The dangers of tanning far outweigh the attainment of momentarily slightly tanner skin.
Controlled tanning is not safe tanning-People often assume that indoor tanning is safe because the tanning facility can control and limit your level of exposure to harmful UltraViolet (UV) rays. Unfortunately, indoor tanning still exposes you to plenty of UV rays. In fact, a tan is your body’s natural reaction to injury caused by UV rays. Indoor tanning is no safer than tanning in true sunlight, as the UV rays that create your tan also damage your skin, whether they come from the sun or from an artificial light.
Increased risk of skin cancer-Skin cancer is one of the most serious dangers of tanning indoors. Strong UV rays can alter the DNA in skin cells to eventually cause skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the United States. Studies reveal that tanning beds are particular causes of skin cancer, particularly melanoma (the deadliest type of skin cancer), and suggest that people who begin tanning indoors before the age of 35 increase their risk for melanoma by as much as 75 percent.
Major cause of skin discolorations and wrinkles-While strong UV rays are directly linked to skin cancer, weaker UV rays can greatly impair the appearance of your skin. Common symptoms are sun spots, discolorations, poor skin texture, and premature wrinkles. The “healthy glow” of just-tanned skin will likely give way to a distinctly poor quality of skin later in your life.
In order to adequately protect your skin from harmful UV rays and ensure long-term skin health, avoid tanning beds at all costs! To learn more about the dangers of tanning and to discuss skin care solutions, or to schedule a consultation with one of our skin care experts, call (480) 513-2888, or book your appointment online.
