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7 Best Tanning Beds in 2023

How Tanning Beds Work

Tanning beds offer a way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without having to spend hours in the sun. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause skin to darken, resulting in a tan. There are a few different ways to get a tan, including tanning beds and the old-fashioned method of getting out in the sun.

Tanning Beds vs. Sunlight

Tanning beds emit UV radiation in a controlled environment, while sunlight emits UV radiation naturally. The type of UV radiation emitted by tanning beds is called UVA, while the type of UV radiation emitted by sunlight is called UVB. UVA rays are less harmful to the skin than UVB rays, but they can still cause damage over time. UVB rays are more harmful to the skin than UVA rays, but they are also more effective at producing a tan.

Types of Tanning Beds

There are two main types of tanning beds: horizontal and vertical. Horizontal tanning beds are the most common type of tanning bed. They consist of a bench and canopy lid that house long, low-pressure fluorescent bulbs (100-200 watts) under an acrylic shield. Vertical tanning beds are less common than horizontal tanning beds. They consist of a stand-up booth with UV lamps arranged on the walls and ceiling.

Benefits of Tanning Beds

There are a few benefits to using tanning beds, including:

• Convenience: Tanning beds offer a convenient way to get a tan without having to spend hours in the sun.
• Control: Tanning beds allow you to control the amount of UV radiation you are exposed to, which can help to prevent sunburn.
• Year-round availability: Tanning beds are available year-round, regardless of the weather.

Risks of Tanning Beds

There are also a few risks associated with using tanning beds, including:

• Skin cancer: UV radiation from tanning beds can increase your risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.
• Wrinkles: UV radiation from tanning beds can damage the skin's collagen and elastin, which can lead to wrinkles.
• Age spots: UV radiation from tanning beds can also cause age spots, which are dark spots on the skin.

How to Use Tanning Beds Safely

If you choose to use a tanning bed, there are a few things you can do to reduce the risks, including:

• Start with short sessions: Start with short tanning sessions of 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the time as you tan.
• Use a tanning bed lotion: Use a tanning bed lotion to help protect your skin from UV radiation.
• Wear protective eyewear: Wear protective eyewear to protect your eyes from UV radiation.
• Avoid tanning if you have certain skin conditions: Avoid tanning if you have certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
• See your doctor regularly: See your doctor regularly for a skin check to monitor your skin for any changes.

Conclusion

Tanning beds offer a convenient way to get a tan, but there are also some risks associated with their use. If you choose to use a tanning bed, it is important to do so safely. By following the tips above, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and other skin problems.

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