Are you looking for a way to get those summer vibes all year round? Tanning beds are an easy and convenient way to get that sun-kissed glow, without having to lay out in the sun, but what are the benefits of tanning beds?
If you’d like to read a balanced review of the pros and cons of using tanning beds, keep on reading…
What Exactly Is A Tanning Bed?
A tanning bed, also known as a sunbed or solarium, is a device that emits ultraviolet radiation (UVR) to create a cosmetic tan.
Essentially, it imitates the sun’s ability to darken your skin. The technology involves UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays penetrate deep into your dermis – that’s the skin layer beneath your exterior epidermis – encouraging melanin production for that desired golden hue.
UVB rays stimulate vitamin D synthesis in your body, which has a range of indoor tanning health advantages such as strengthening immunity and bone health.
A regular tanning bed consists of fluorescent lamps with phosphor blends designed to emit UVA and minor amounts of UVB radiation.
You lie on an acrylic surface while these lights surround you from all sides, making sure an even distribution of light for uniform coloration.
Tanning beds often come with adjustable timers, so you can control exposure time, decreasing risks associated with overexposure such as sunburns or premature aging effects.
Some models even have special filters to limit destructive UVB emissions, improving their safety profile.
Using a tanning bed can be more than just achieving aesthetically pleasing results – it can offer therapeutic advantages as well, such as alleviating symptoms of conditions like psoriasis or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
What Are The Benefits of Tanning Beds?
There are some unexpected indoor tanning health benefits to think about, when heading to the tanning salon to use a tanning booth:
- Vitamin D production: Indoor tanning beds release ultraviolet (UV) light, which energizes your skin’s natural capacity to produce Vitamin D. This essential vitamin helps keep robust bones and teeth, as well as supporting immune system function.
- Mood enhancement: Exposure to UV light increases the production of serotonin, a hormone responsible for lifting mood and promoting feelings of joy and wellbeing.
- Skin condition treatment: Certain skin conditions like psoriasis, acne or eczema may improve with regular exposure to UV rays light from indoor tanning beds.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) relief: Regular exposure to artificial sunlight can help reduce symptoms related to SAD – a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons.
While these advantages do not invalidate the potential risks related to excessive UV exposure – such as early skin aging or increased risk for certain types of cancer – they do provide insight into why some individuals opt for indoor tanning despite these worries.
Are There Health Benefits Of Tanning Beds?
Despite the potential risks, controlled exposure to UV radiation may offer some unexpected advantages for your wellbeing. Indoor tanning beds provide a regulated atmosphere to get benefits from ultraviolet (UV) rays.
One of the major indoor tanning health benefits is vitamin D production. UVB rays fuel the production of vitamin D in your skin, a key nutrient for bone health and immune function.
Regular but moderate use of tanning beds can help you retain a healthy glow year-round, which can enhance your confidence and self-esteem.
This aspect is often overlooked but plays a big role in our overall mental wellbeing. You need to make sure you protect your skin with sunscreen, before you sunbathe on a tanning bed.
Here’s a brief overview:
| Benefits Of Tanning Beds | Description |
|---|---|
| Vitamin D Production | Exposure to UVB rays stimulates Vitamin D production in the skin, promoting bone health and immune function. |
| Healthy Glow | Regular use provides a year-round tan that can enhance personal appearance and increase self-confidence. |
| Mental Wellbeing | The aesthetic benefit contributes positively to mental health by boosting self-image and confidence |
How Do Tanning Beds Help With Vitamin D Production?
Imagine yourself under the warmth of a tanning bed, not only for that bronze glow, but also for a necessary dose of vitamin D.
Yes, you heard that right. Among the benefits of indoor tanning is its ability to increase your levels of this necessary nutrient.
Tanning beds produce ultraviolet (UV) radiation similar to sunlight, which can activate vitamin D production in your skin. Here’s how it works:
- When UVB rays hit your skin, they interact with a type of cholesterol present there.
- This interaction sets off the creation of a precursor called provitamin D3.
- Your body then transforms this into working vitamin D or calciferol.
The process is natural and effective – a great way to supplement dietary sources and bridge gaps in your vitamin D nutrition when sun exposure isn’t available or enough.
Control is essential when using tanning beds for their potential health benefits; too much UV radiation could bring about damaging effects like premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer.
But, if used prudently as part of a balanced approach towards keeping healthy vitamin D levels, tanning beds can indeed play a supportive role.
What Are The Risks Of Tanning Via Sunless Tanning Methods?
The ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted by these machines can cause significant skin damage, leading to premature aging and a heightened risk of getting skin cancer.
This takes place as the UV radiation harms cells in your skin’s outermost layer and changes their DNA structure.
If you’re considering indoor tanning for its believed health benefits like Vitamin D production, think about this against the possible harm you could be doing to yourself.
Alternatives like spray-on or lotion-based self-tanners also carry their own risks.
These products often contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a color additive that reacts with your skin cells to darken them temporarily.
While DHA is approved by the FDA for external use only on your skin’s surface, potential worries come up when it is inhaled or swallowed during application – particularly in sensitive areas like eyes or lips.
Therefore, while you may be part of a community that values a constant bronzed appearance regardless of seasonal or weather changes, be conscious of these possible health implications connected to tanning and its alternatives.
Indoor Tanning Vs Outdoor Tanning – What Are The Health Risks?
When discussing indoor tanning vs outdoor tanning – what are the health risks?, some aspects need to be taken into account:
- Tanning beds emit both UVA and UVB radiation, which can cause skin damage such as premature aging and even skin cancer.
- Outdoor tanning may appear more natural, but excessive exposure to sunlight also brings along dangerous UV rays.
- The intensity of radiation is much higher in tanning beds than natural sunlight, increasing your risk for melanoma.
- Indoor tanning health benefits might include vitamin D synthesis. Yet, overuse can offset these benefits, leading to serious health issues.
- Your skin type plays an essential role too. People with fair skin are at a greater risk of burns and cancers from both types of exposure.
Both indoor and outdoor tanning carry considerable risks that should not be underestimated.
While vitamin D synthesis is essential for healthy bones and immune function, there are safer ways to get this vital nutrient instead of risking your health on a sunbed or under direct sunlight.
How Often Should You Use Tanning Beds To Improve Skin Disorders?
Studies have indicated that using tanning beds can improve some skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema.
These conditions are often treated with phototherapy, which uses similar ultraviolet light wavelengths as tanning beds.
However, it’s essential to bear in mind that this isn’t a DIY cure – talking to a dermatologist is a must before starting any kind of indoor tanning regimen for medical purposes.
In terms of frequency, studies suggest that moderate use of tanning beds – around two to three times per week – may be beneficial for these types of skin conditions.
But again, this isn’t fixed; the exact figure could shift depending on your individual requirements and how your body reacts to treatment.
What Is the Cost of Using a Tanning Bed?
The cost of using a tanning bed can vary greatly. On average, a single session might range from $7 to $25.
Monthly packages offer better value, typically costing between $40 and $100.
As I mentioned above, repeated use of tanning beds has been linked to skin damage and cancer.
Therefore, you should weigh the financial cost against your wellbeing – which is invaluable.
Are There Specific Skin Types that Should Avoid Using Tanning Beds?
Yes, certain skin types should avoid using tanning beds. If you’re fair-skinned or have a history of skin cancer, it’s best to stay away.
Your risk for melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, increases dramatically with indoor tanning. People with moles or freckles should also be wary, as they’re at a higher risk for developing skin cancer.
How Long Does a Typical Tanning Session Last?
Your typical tanning session can last anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on your skin type and the type of tanning bed used.
Beginners should start with shorter sessions of 5-10 minutes to adapt their skin and avoid burning.
As you become more experienced, you can increase the length of the session, but try not to exceed 20 minutes. Remember that moderation is key in keeping your skin healthy.
Is There a Difference in Effectiveness Between Stand-Up and Lay-Down Tanning Beds?
Yes, there is a clear distinction between stand-up and lay-down tanning beds. Stand-up models usually provide a more balanced tan since your body isn’t pressed against any surface, minimizing white spots.
They also have stronger bulbs, which can lead to quicker tanning. However, they need more energy to use.
On the other hand, lay-down beds are easier on the body but can cause uneven tans due to pressure points. Make sure you consider these factors when selecting your preferred method.
Can Tanning Beds Help with Seasonal Affective Disorder (sad)?
Yes, tanning beds may be beneficial for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). They provide light similar to that of the sun, potentially increasing serotonin levels and improving your mood.
However, it’s essential to note that the UV rays from tanning beds can pose risks such as skin cancer. Therefore, medical professionals usually suggest light therapy with a SAD lamp, which provides beneficial light without the dangerous UV radiation.
Before attempting any new treatment for SAD or other conditions, consult your healthcare provider.
Summary
Tanning beds can provide an easy and convenient way to get the sun-kissed glow you want.
They offer various health benefits such as stimulating vitamin D production, enhancing mood, treating skin conditions, and relieving symptoms of SAD.
Nevertheless, be aware of potential risks when using tanning beds such as premature aging or increasing risk of certain types of skin cancer.
Alternatives like spray or lotion self-tanners also carry their own risks as they often contain dihydroxyacetone – a color additive that reacts with your skin cells to darken them temporarily – which could lead to irritation if inhaled or swallowed during application.
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