Are Sunbeds Healthy ?

The idea of a sun tan representing health or affluence is a recent trend. Before the 1950's, people were very conscious of keeping their skin out of the sun. Indeed, someone that was heavily tanned may be thought of as some that worked outdoors in a poorly paid job and exposed to too much sun.

During the 1950's, people became more prosperous. They had more time for leisure activities as opposed to working. These type of activities involved spending time at the beach or other outdoor activities. they also had time and money to spend on exotic vacations to warmer climates.

It was not long before having an all over tan was a sign of an affluent lifestyle. It represented the living of a healthy and vital life and was highly desirable. Pretty soon, getting a suntan became an activity in itself. People would spend many hours in the Sun 'working on their tan'.

The idea of having a year round sun tan soon became popular. Also, people wanted to get a tan before they started their annual vacation. With demand for these needs to be met, the idea of the sunbed evolved.

Ever since the development of the sunbed they have proved to be very popular. Tanning salons pop up at every mall or shopping center. Many gyms have a tanning salon too which reinforces the link between a tan and a healthy lifestyle.

But the question that most people that use sunbeds have and then choose to forget is are sunbeds healthy ?

The answer is very simple. Current research suggests that any kind of tanning, be it in the Sun or being exposed to ultra violet radiation in some other way will eventually lead to skin cancer. The level or duration of exposure to UV rays before a skin cancer develops will vary from person to person depending on their skin type and other genetic factors.

Many tanning salon owners will make the distinction that the radiation that you are exposed to in the sun is different to that of a sunbed. UVB radiation causes the skin to burn and is the kind of radiation you will be exposed to in the Sun. Whereas, UVA radiation is the kind of radiation that you will be exposed to on a sunbed. It does not cause your skin to burn but it is believed to still be just as likely to cause skin cancer.

The important point to take from this is that any form of tanning is bad for the skin. It will eventually lead to skin cancer at some point and is more likely if you are genetically predisposed to developing skin cancer. You should limit your exposure to UV radiation in all circumstances. That is why most people are advised to take precautions in the sun, like wearing sunscreen, a hat and protective clothing.

Topping up your sunbed tan every week or month is like going out in the Sun without any protection. Based on current research and advice, this seems like a risky activity for the sake of a glowing tan.

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