- A solarium--or a tanning bed as it is more commonly known in the United States--is a booth in which ultraviolet light is projected onto the user. This creates a tan. These solariums use fluorescent bulbs with phosphor blends to mimic the ultraviolet light derived from the sun in order to produce this effect. As compared to tanning in the sun, however, the tan derived from a solarium is typically not as deep or lasting. This is because of the high concentration of UV light. This concentration means much shorter tanning periods. That's why it does not penetrate to the deeper levels of the skin.
- Though it is widely believed that tanning in a solarium is a safe alternative to tanning in the sun, this is far from true. The U.S. Department of Health regards ultraviolet light to be the number one cancer causing agent in the world. This light is derived not only from the sun, but from a solarium as well. Some scientists have even proposed a link between UVA radiation--which is the bulk of the radiation produced by a tanning bed--and malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. According to a study done in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, women who artificially tan at least once per month are over fifty percent more likely to develop some form of skin cancer than those who do not.
- While sunbathing for cosmetic reasons is rarely recommended by health professionals, there are some legitimate medical uses for ultraviolet light. Sometimes individuals with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis are treated with UV light therapy. Although solarium memberships or purchases are an infrequent treatment option, they have been known to be prescribed for these reasons. Membership may even be covered under some insurance plans. In addition to this, small amounts of sunbathing--whether in a solarium or naturally--has been proven to temporarily reduce acne. This is due to the drying effect tanning has on the skin.
