Tanning beds not only expose the body to excess UV rays, but they can also cause premature aging and wrinkles. Yet people continue to use them. Dr. Todd Minars of Minars Dermatology in Hollywood, Florida, says the main problem is that people never use them in moderation.
I would imagine just everybody knows that tanning beds are not good for you. While anything in moderation is okay, most people do not tend to use tanning beds in moderation. Most people end up doing it regularly, and it is that cumulative damage to your skin which is dangerous.
I am not really a die-hard anti-sun dermatologist as I believe that it is okay to get a little bit of sun. It’s like anything else: You can have a little bit of anything in your diet but nothing to excess. I guess I have a little less tolerance of the tanning beds as they just seem to be so bad since so many people end up abusing them.
If you decide that you cannot live without the use of a tanning bed, follow these tips:
- Restrict use to safe limits.
- Use only tanning beds recommended by a health professional.
- Always use goggles when tanning.
- Avoid tanning beds while pregnant.
- Check your body for any noticeable changes while using tanning beds.
- Give yourself regular skin self-exams, as well as get ones by your dermatologist.
- Contact your dermatologist if you have any concerns following the use of a tanning bed.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
