Why Are Tanning Beds So Bad?

Tanning beds are harmful to skin.

A beautiful tan can make you happy with the way you look. A great tan may cause you to ignore the warnings. According to SkinCancer.org there are dangers to tanning in a tanning bed that can have long-terms effects on your health.

Melanoma

If you use tanning beds, you're more likely to develop melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Regular tanning bed use before the age of 30 increases your risk of melanoma by 75 percent.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

You are 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma if you use a tanning bed. This cancer normally shows up after the age of 50 and typically occurs in fair-skinned people.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. The older you are, the more likely you will develop this type of skin cancer if you are currently or have been an avid user of tanning beds.

Aging Skin

You may not notice the photo-aging taking place due to tanning beds right away, but in time your skin will begin to show wrinkles before it would normally without tanning bed exposure.

Considerations

If you tan in the sun for a prolonged period of time, your skin will endure the same effects as using a tanning bed.

References

• Skin Cancer: Tanning
• American Academy of Dermatology: Sun Darker

Resources

• Iowa State University: The Bad Side of Tanning