Risks of Indoor Tanning
Sunlight is made up of UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are made up of long wavelengths that can penetrate the deep layers of the skin. UVB rays are made up of shorter wavelengths that usually affect only the outer layers of skin but are more prone to cause sunburns. According to a Vanderbilt health article, tanning beds primarily emit UVA rays, but they also emit UVB rays. When the skin is exposed to UVA and UVB rays, it reacts either by burning or tanning, but both occur in response to skin damage; thus, tanning is not a healthy habit. The American Academy of Dermatology asserts that the use of tanning beds is potentially deadly.
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Effect on Skin's Appearance
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Tanning beds have been shown to promote premature wrinkling because the UVA rays reduce the skin's elasticity and destroy some of the skin's delicate fibers. The skin may also age more quickly and have a leathery appearance. Also, dark spots may develop on the skin.
Eye Damage
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The eyes can be damaged by excessive exposure to UVB radiation. One condition is known as photokeratitis, and it can can eye pain and itchiness, eyelid swelling and watery eyes. It can also impair vision. The risk of developing cataracts may also be increased with UVB exposure.
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Immune System Damage
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The FDA warns that using tanning beds may damage the immune system. This damage can lead to more frequent infections, sunlight sensitivity, resistance to immunizations and medicine reactions.
Malignant Melanoma
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A Swedish study conducted in 1996 found that those individuals who visited tanning beds 10 or more times per year were about seven times more likely to suffer from malignant melanoma.
Safe Alternatives
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The only safe tanning alternative is to use a sunless tanning lotion to produce skin that appears to be tan.
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