Tanning Beds Eye Damage
The FDA has determined that the UV rays that are emitted by tanning beds are just as dangerous as those emitted by natural sunlight. The major concern has always been that these UV rays cause skin cancer and premature skin aging. However, there is another danger to be aware of: Tanning beds eye damage. That’s right. UV rays that are emitted by tanning beds can cause tanning beds eye damage!
There are two ways to protect your eyes from these harmful rays. You can either stay out of the sunlight and tanning beds, or you can wear sun glasses or tanning goggles with UV protection. Many people don’t want to wear the goggles in tanning beds, thinking that they will be left with ‘tan lines’ on their faces. This just isn’t true. Eyelids do not tan, and since the goggles simply cover the eyelids, you don’t have to worry about tan lines.
Many tanning salons will not allow you to enter the tanning bed without wearing the goggles. You may not agree with this policy, but that policy is in place to protect your eyesight. Experts also encourage tanning bed tanners to keep their eyes closed during the session – even if they are wearing the goggles.
Goggles are relatively inexpensive, and can typically be purchased where tanning supplies are sold. Many tanning salons sell goggles as well, and some will even allow you to borrow a pair when you arrive for your tanning session. You must be careful about borrowing, however. Make sure that your tanning salon disinfects each pair of goggles after each use – and make sure that the disinfectant that they use will not irritate your skin or your eyes!
When it comes to UV rays and your eyesight, protecting your eyes from the rays should be your first priority. Even out in the sunshine, you should wear sunglasses that are designed with UV protection technology. There has been quite a bit of tanning beds eye damage over the years, and this damage could have easily been prevented – simply by keeping your eyes closed and wearing a good pair of tanning goggles.
