The Effects of Sun Exposure in a Tanning Bed Vs. Natural Sun

For those who are not blessed with a golden brown complexion, spending the afternoon in the sun or a few minutes in a tanning bed may seem like the perfect solution. Before embarking on either course, however, it's important to know the effects.

UV Rays

All tanning, whether natural or artificial, is caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays. There are three kinds of UV rays. UVA rays cause tanning and UVB rays cause burning. UVC rays, present in sunlight, are almost entirely absorbed by the ozone layer and have no noticeable effect on the skin. UVB is also responsible for vitamin D production in the human body.

Natural Sunlight

Natural sunlight is composed of all three types of UV rays. UVA rays make up approximately 95% of the rays that reach the Earth. UVB and UVC rays make up the other 5%.

UV Rays

Tanning beds emit UVA and UVB rays as well, but there is less UVB and the UVA is up to three times more concentrated than in natural sunlight.

Risks

As of 2003 all UV radiation is classified as a known carcinogen by the U.S. National Toxicology Program. The Mayo Clinic's Dr. Lawrence E. Gibson states that all UV rays damage the skin and can increase the likelihood of premature aging in addition to skin cancer.

Alternatives

Instead of subjecting your skin to any unnecessary UV rays, try a sunless tanning product that will darken the tone of your skin without potentially harming your health.

References

• Harvard Women's Health Watch
• Mayo Clinic