Pros and Cons of Tanning Beds

A tanning bed is a device that is very popular among people who want to get that enviable golden tan that would make heads turn as they walk by. Tanning of the skin is achieved by ultraviolet rays that are emitted by the fluorescent lights with phosphor blends that are used in the tanning beds. The ultraviolet rays emitted by these lamps are almost the same as those in sun's rays. Then why use tanning beds to get one's skin tanned rather than sitting under the sun? It is because these contraptions are faster and more convenient than getting tanned while sitting under the sun. However, tanning bed effects on health have raised concerns among many health care professionals. Here are some positives and negatives of tanning beds that need a consideration before one goes for that stunning sun-kissed complexion.

Pros of Tanning Beds

Convenient and Saves Time: Tanning beds are quick and convenient. Just a short visit to the local tanning salon is all that is required to have a beautiful tan. It works faster than the sunrays to give you that tanned look. Hence one does not have to set a considerable amount of time aside for it. Moreover a tanning bed can also be used even in the evening, whatever suits one's schedule.

Melanin Production: Exposure to ultraviolet rays triggers the production of the pigment melanin that gives the tan we desire so much. This pigment protects the skin from being burnt due to over-exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Vitamin D Production: When exposed to either natural or artificial sunlight, our skin produces Vitamin D. This vitamin is very important in keeping our teeth, bones and joints strong. Vitamin D also prevents uncontrolled growth of cells through the process of apoptosis.

Less Probability of Getting Skin Burns: Tanning beds filter out the UVB rays that cause skin burns. Hence getting a tan from tanning beds is less harmful to the skin, as far as skin burns are concerned, than exposure to sunlight. Hence tanning beds are considered by many as a safer alternative to sunrays.

Gives a Healthy Feeling: Studies have shown that tanning bed sessions can significantly improve one's mood. An individual feels more confident and happy at the bronzed look that he/she wears after a short session in the tanning bed. It is also known to increase an individual's self-confidence and morale.

Cons of Tanning Beds

Here are some of the negative effects of tanning beds:

Harmful for Eyes: Tanning beds are known to have harmful effect on one's vision. These contraptions are believed to damage the retina and cornea. The UV levels that are higher in tanning beds as compared to that in sunlight are viewed as a reason for cataract.

Skin Problems: Tanning beds can cause premature wrinkling of the skin and skin rashes. Some of the side effects of tanning beds are dry and rough skin and hives. Tanning beds that aren't cleaned properly can cause fungal rash as well.

Skin Cancer: A strong correlation has been found between tanning beds and skin cancer. Although UV rays are known to reduce the risk of getting carcinoma of the lymph nodes, they are also the major cause of skin cancer.

Response to Medicines: Certain medicines may increase sensitivity of the skin to light. This may result in complications that are termed as photosensitive disorders.

Tanning Beds and Pregnancy

There is also some concern about tanning beds and pregnancy. Although most medical professionals are of the opinion that tanning beds do not pose any threat to the fetus, many obstetricians and mid-wives believe that women should stay away from tanning beds while pregnant. The major worry is hyperthermia which may set in once the body temperatures reach 102°F. Although the temperatures in the tanning salons are maintained below this threshold level, be very sure of using tanning beds while pregnant.

Despite the tanning bed dangers, there is no denying the benefits and convenience of using these contraptions. One should know the right tanning bed tips to make the maximum of these devices. Like most other procedures, tanning beds pros and cons are abound. However, the key lies in having proper information and correctly following the guidelines of using tanning beds.