Tanning Bed Safety Tips

Tips to Make Tanning Bed Use as Safe as Possible

K. Taylor

Some think that the phrases tanning bed and safety do not belong in the same sentence but let's face it, most of us will use a tanning bed at some point so why not try to use it as safely as possible. Of course the safest way to obtain a glowing tan is to get it from a bottle but most are not happy with the look of over the counter tanning solutions.

Tanning beds use high intensity UVA light bulbs to increase the body's natural production of melanin. Melanin is the body's pigment that causes the skin to have that glowing tan. The problem with the UVA bulbs is that they deliver the UVA in a much higher dose than what is normally found by being outside in normal conditions.

The increased exposure to UVA can cause premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancers. With all of the known facts, many of us will still seek out the local tanning salon to get a jump on the summer season.

When using a tanning bed, it is important to take a few steps to ensure that the tanning process is as safe as possible. If you would like to see the regulations that are set for tanning salons in your state, you can find them at http://www.clubsafety.com/tanregulations.htm

Upon entering the tanning salon, if a questionnaire about your medical history and prescription medications is not offered, ask for one. Make certain to look for any medications that you may be taking as some medications can cause severe burning or a hive like rash from UVA exposure. This is also a good time to ask questions about the amount of time that you should tan. If you are not certain, the staff of the tanning salon should be able to offer some guidance. If you are tanning for the first time of the season, start with a quick tanning session to see how your skin is going to react. The more conservative you are with your tanning time, the lower the risk of a serious burn.

Once registered and shown to the tanning bed area, look for a cleaning solution and a towel. If the staff states that the tanning bed has been cleaned since it's last use, be persistent until you are allowed to clean the bed yourself. A thorough cleaning can cut down on skin infections that could be passed from one patron to the next.

Before entering the bed, make certain that tanning goggles are used and if you are wearing contacts, remove them before the bed is turned on. Serious damage can be done to the eyes if precautions are not taken to protect them.

While we may all agree that tanning beds are not safe, the fact remains that most will use them at one time or another. By following the tips above, you can lessen the risk of burns and other dangers associated with tanning bed use.

Published by K. Taylor

I have been a stay at home mom for many years and have always loved to put pen to paper. I have had several articles published on working from home and issues related to telecommuting.   View profile

6 Comments

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  • Elvira 6/10/2010

    Hello, we are Tanning beds and goggles(UV sun eye protection) manufacturer in China, Guangzhou ALFA Health Equipment Co.,Ltd, I'm Ms. Elvira, our company name is Guangzhou Alfa Health Equipment Co., LTD. OUr goggles price can be as low as USD0.8 for MOQ 5000pcs. Our goggles are sold to Tanning machines distributor, medical equipment distributor and other trading company or vendors.Hoping to build a business relationship with you! Please contact Ms. Elvira through 86 20 84201088, or Chinasolaria@gmail.com thanks! --Ms. Elvira
    Web: http://monalisa.en.alibaba.com/productgrouplist-0/others.html

  • Breanna 2/19/2009

    I work at a tanning salon and we have 3 ladies who come in a few times a week to help their eczema. They were sent from dermatologists to come tan a few times on the higher level UVA beds. Do NOT use UVB beds because they will not help, but the UVA bulbs will help you skin condition!!

  • CherieXiao 4/11/2008

    Dear sir,

    This is Cherie from Guangzhou New Elite Concept Co.LTD. We are the only one factory export tanning beds in China. We are professional manufacturer of solarium products such as tanning bed,sunbath,suntan,solaria. We have excogitated e-ballist which can start all lights on at the same time. The most important is we can offer you a competitive price for you which is unbelievable .Looking forward to hear from you soon! Thank you very much!

    Best regards!

    Cherie

    Add: Rm 1207, Jingdianju Building, No 228, Guangzhou Rd,
    Guangzhou City, Guangdong£¬ P.R. China

    Tel: +86-20-84201088 84203739
    Fax:+86-20-84203820

    Mobile:86-13751884215
    E-mail: tanningbed01@gmail.com or sunbed001@gmail.com
    Msn: sunbed01@hotmail.com
    Skype:sunbed01

    Web: www.solarium.com.cn

    Trade Manager: cn100736001
    Yahoo: sun_bed01@yahoo.com

  • Alyssa 3/18/2008

    actually, i have heard that if someone has a skin rash or something like exzema, it is good for your skin to get some rays. That doesnt mean go tanning 3 or four times a week, but it is good for your skin.

  • machelle 3/9/2008

    You and your mother should consult a dermatologist about your skin condition before you age quickly from the sun's rays.

  • GShatto 2/24/2008

    quick question: my mom tihnks that tanning a few times a week would be good for my skin because i have some sort of rash and i have eczema. i dont really want to because i perfer pale skin, but she said that you can still use spf and stuff. BUT, i've been reading up a little on the whole idea of it, and it doesnt sound like something i would want to do at all, and it doesnt sound like it would really help at all anyways. would it? i'm super confused with all this, so thanks forthe help and stuff!
    -GShatto

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