The Understated Danger of Tanning Bed Overuse
We have read much about the danger of tanning bed overuse. But are we doing enough to safeguard ourselves against it?
The danger of tanning bed overuse can come about mostly through carelessness. An old and poorly-maintained bed might have a broken timer, for example, and will not be able to dim or shut off the lights on time. As it is not uncommon for people to fall asleep while using a tanning bed, such an oversight may prove not only inconvenient, but potentially deadly. Overexposure to the UV light in tanning beds could lead to a variety of skin afflictions, which could range from mild sunburn to life-threatening diseases like melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer.
A person who is in charge of maintaining a tanning bed - regardless of whether it is a home or a commercial model - should perform regular checks on it and make sure each part is working perfectly. Light bulbs need to be replaced as soon as they show signs of dimming, because their efficiency is reduced if they have outlived their peak performance. Different beds may need different bulbs, so it is best to consult the manufacturer of the bulbs as to their lifespan. This is normally indicated in the packaging.
But sometimes people will take it upon themselves to overuse tanning beds, thinking it will not pose any significant health risks. A person can be frustrated, for example, if he or she does not get the tan desired within the projected timeframe. This could happen even under ideal conditions, depending on the skin's reaction to light exposure. Some skin types simply take longer to tan. When this happens, it is not advisable to resort to overusing the tanning bed right away. It's time to get a tanning professional's input - perhaps there is another light setting that could have been used, or perhaps it is best to switch to another tanning regimen. But only after some time and a bit of rest! It is all right to give your skin a break, even if you have not yet achieved the right tan.
All tanning beds that are out in the market follow strict quality standards, so they are safe to use... as long as they are properly maintained, and as long as tanning schedules are closely observed. The danger of tanning bed overuse is one that is potentially grave and should never be taken lightly.
