|  | Public Health Safety | Public Health

Positive Effects of Tanning Beds

Indoor tanning does not expose you to the damaging effects of the sun, and is actually one of the safest ways to get a tan. Having a base tan is one of the best ways to ensure you don't get sunburned, which lessens your risk of getting skin cancer.

  1. History

    • Throughout history, tanning hasn't always been a popular thing. Dating back to ancient times, only the poor were tan. That is, until the 1920s, when tanning became very fashionable.

    Function

    • Tanning beds help people get a tan during the months they cannot go outside to lay out due to the cold temperatures, or if they're working and just don't have the time.

    Benefits

    • For people that suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), getting some form of ultraviolet light helps their mental well-being. Dermatologists have also prescribed visits to tanning salons for people with psoriasis, as it helps alleviate the skin condition.

    Warning

    • Excessive use of tanning beds can increase your risk of getting skin cancer as well as premature skin aging.

    Theories/Speculation

    • Anything can be bad if not done in moderation, and the same holds true for tanning bed use. As long as it's done in short intervals, there should be no risk of getting skin cancer.

Public Health - Related Articles