The Effects of Tanning Beds

Thanks to years of research we are more aware of the damages tanning and UV rays have on our skin. But even with this research and the advancements we’ve made in skin protection, skin cancer is still the most common form of cancer in the U.S., affecting more than 3.5 million people annually. While we monitor our exposure outside, tanning beds are just as damaging to your skin as laying out by the pool, if not more.

Tanning beds often exceed “safe” UV limits, despite what the salon claims. For example, did you know a tanning lamp can emit 10 to 15 times the amount of UVA radiation produced by the sun? A tan induces the same type of damages to your skin as a sunburn. It causes DNA damage to the skin and increases your risk of developing melanoma even just after one burn. In fact, indoor UV tanners are 74% more likely to develop melanoma than those who have never tanned indoors.

In the U.S. alone, 419,254 cases of skin cancer can be attributed to indoor tanning – 6,199 are melanoma cases. These numbers are shocking because melanoma is one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Self-tanners are a much safer option to getting that “healthy glow”. Let’s keep these facts at the top of mind as we enter Melanoma Awareness Month next month.

If you have any questions about tanning beds or about changes in your skin, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.