Tanning Beds and Skin Irritation

UV lights in tanning beds and booths can be harmful to the skin and cause irritation.

Golden tanned skin is a look many people try to achieve in the summer months and winter months alike. The desire for a year-round tan, and our desire for quick and efficient results, has increased the popularity of tanning beds and booths, and alerted many in the medical community to the possible dangers and side effects associated with subjecting your skin to the harmful UV rays of a tanning bed or booth. In addition to long-term skin health issues, tanning beds can cause unpleasant skin irritation in some individuals.

Types

The most common skin issue associated with tanning beds is erythema, commonly known as sunburn. The concentrated use of the UV rays in a tanning bed will cause your skin to burn more quickly than the sun, and this can result in red, peeling and itching skin. An allergic reaction to the UV rays can also cause an array of skin abnormalities. Common skin problems such as acne, eczema and psoriasis can be aggravated and even activated by the UV exposure.

Symptoms

Different skin types will experience varied reactions to UV tanning beds, so it is important to pay close attention to your symptoms and consult a dermatologist if any irritation or pain persists. Many people do not realize that they have an allergy to UV rays and continue tanning, which can lead to a greater risk of premature aging and long-term skin problems. According to All Tanning Beds, symptoms that can stem from tanning bed exposure include red bumps, rashes, itching and hives. Extreme redness and dryness can also result from your tanning bed sessions.

Treatment

Allergies to UV rays can be treated with an allergy cream or over-the-counter antihistamine allergy medication. Lotions and aloe vera can also be used on the skin to alleviate the pain of a sunburn or the itchy sensation associated with a rash. The best course of action is to avoid direct sunlight and visiting the tanning beds again until your skin is fully healed.

Warning

If you are currently undergoing medical treatment of any kind or taking prescription drugs, tanning and especially UV rays can be detrimental to your health. Many medications cause photo sensitivity and can increase your chances of skin irritation if you tan while taking the medication. According to the National Science Foundation, the long term effects of tanning and UV ray exposure can also include skin cancer and increased wrinkles and loose skin, so it is important to consider the short and long term health of your skin.

Alternatives

There are many sunless tanner products on the market that will help you to achieve your ideal bronzed look without subjecting your skin to the harmful rays of tanning beds. Self-tanning products such as creams, gels and sprays can be applied at home or you can visit a spray tan professional to get your look with less effort. Sunless tanning does not last as long as a traditional sun tan, but the application can be repeated as often as you like to acquire your perfect skin shade. There are several self tanning products that are specially made for people with sensitive skin, which might be a good option if you have a history of skin irritation and problems.

References

• All Tanning Beds: Can you Get Tanning Bed Allergies?
• National Science Foundation: Effects of UV Radiation on You