Types of Bronzing Tanning Beds

Those who don't have the time to tan naturally in the sun, or don’t live in a year-round sunny climate, make use of tanning beds both in salons or at home to help replicate the sun's darkening effect on their skin. Tanning beds differ in the amounts of ultraviolet light they use, where bronzing tanning beds, specifically, help to achieve a deep, dark tan. Commonly perceived as a "healthy" look, tanning can actually pose health risks, a fact that medical sources point out regularly.

Function

Tanned skin requires both UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays. Tanning beds make use of electronic sunlamps emitting this light in a bed form, to help tan evenly. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, and UVB rays work on the top layer of skin. Tanning bed lights can emit both types of ray to replicate sunlight, causing skin to darken in color with regular use. The main difference between standard bulbs and bronzing tanning bulbs is that the latter can create a darker tan, but takes longer to do so.

History

According to the International Tanning Association, ultraviolet-emitting sunlamps where first used for therapeutic reasons, especially in sun-deprived countries of northern Europe. German scientist Friedrich Wolff introduced indoor tanning to America when he recognized the tanning effects of UV light in 1975, forming company “Wolff Systems” in 1978. UV lights quickly developed into beds to help achieve an even tan across the body, and salons across America still use the Wolff System today.

Types

Beauty salons provide use of tanning beds to the public, and manufacturers also sell them for at home use. Most tanning beds work in the same way, but with differing amounts of UVB and UVA emissions. Bronzing bulbs (otherwise known as high-pressure tanning beds) contain a lower level of UVB emissions than standard tanning bulbs, reducing the chance of burning. In general, the lower the UVB rating and the higher the UVA rating, the slower the tan will develop but the deeper it will get. Low-pressure beds release higher levels of UVB for a faster result.

Misconceptions

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a number of misconceptions surround bronzing tanning beds. Manufacturers claim that tanning booths can encourage production of vitamin D in the body, helping with functions such as good bone health. UVB radiation does help to produce vitamin D, though the FTC recommends only light exposure two to three times a week in the summer to get the full effect; tanning is not necessary.

Warnings

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Association (FDA), UV radiation from tanning beds poses serious health risks to users, citing cancer as the main risk. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) claims that the chance of developing the deadly melanoma form of cancer increases after experiencing sunburn at a young age. As a result, tanning beds are not recommended for those under 18 years old. Other risks associated with tanning beds include eye damage, premature aging, immune suppression and allergic reactions.

References

• Wolff System: The Inventor
• FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Sunlamps and Sunlamp Products
• FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Indoor Tanning
• Federal Trade Commission: Indoor Tanning Federal Trade Commission: Indoor Tanning
• Indoor Tanning Association: FAQ
• Tanning Bed Bulbs: FAQ