Many seem to think of two things when it comes to tanning beds; a golden, dark tan and the increased risk of cancer. While there are risks, tanning beds can be very safe when used correctly. Indoor or outdoor, tanning is always going to be around and will continue to evolve, making it safer and more efficient. The key to safe tanning is knowing your ‘burn level’ and how to effectively tan without creating long term damage. If you have fair skin, you obviously need to slowly work your way up; otherwise you will risk the chance of severe sun burn.
The actually light emitted from tanning beds consists of about 40% less UVB rays then what you would receive when tanning outdoors. UVB are the dangerous ultraviolet rays, these are also the rays that some sunscreens do not block as I spoke about in yesterdays post. By tanning indoors, you essentially have more control over the UVA and UVB rays, as well as the length of time you spend in the tanning bed.
Tanning bed bulbs are also designed with filters. These filters are safer in the sense that people usually tan rather than burn. With UVA radiation, vitamin D is produced. This is an excellent form of calcium that stays in your body’s bloodstream. Many people still believe that the only true source of vitamin D is from the sun, but tanning beds also emit UVA rays which provide adequate levels of this essential vitamin.
Choosing the best tanning lotion, oil or cream for your body and skin is also very important. These lotions are designed especially for indoor or outdoor use, not both. Be sure to ask your local tanning salon if you have any questions on your skin type or the current products available.
Tanning indoors does in face have many benefits and pros if respected and treated with common sense. There is no ‘fast tan’ unless you go with spray airbrush tanning which still may take multiple sessions to achieve the tan you are looking for. If you’re a first time indoor tanner, it’s best to tan and slowly increase your tanning time over several weeks. Once you have a base tan built, you can increase your tanning time, use bronzing lotions and much more.
