Facts on Tanning Beds

Tanning beds are most frequently used in the months before summer to provide people with base tans before participating in outdoor activities, although some people like to maintain a tan all year long. The most common tanning beds are lay-down beds, with a number of fluorescent bulbs emitting ultraviolet light that is comparable to the sun.

History

Indoor tanning began as a concept in Germany by the scientist Friedrich Wolff, who was studying the effects of more sunlight exposure on athletes. After creating the new industry, he brought the first tanning beds into America in 1978.

Types

Tanning beds vary from low pressure to high pressure, depending on the bulb wattage, and are typically categorized by starter, high intensity, bronzing/ultra-bronzing and finally turbo or super beds, for the highest levels.

Time Frame

In the United States regulations allow for the maximum indoor tanning time to be 20 minutes, but this depends on each type of bed and the recommended exposure schedule that is required to come with it.

Benefits

People often use tanning beds to feel better and more confident about their skin. Tanning beds are also sometimes used in light therapy for skin conditions and treatment for seasonal affective disorder.

Warning

There is a risk factor for skin cancer when there is exposure to any ultraviolet light, and tanning beds can enhance that risk. If the eyes aren’t covered properly while the tanning bed is in use, the exposure can lead to medical eye conditions.

References

• Provides information on the history of tanning beds, how they are used and how they are made