Introduction
Tanning beds are becoming increasingly popular, especially among young adults. They are seen as a quick and easy way to get a ‘tan’, without having to spend hours in the sun. However, what people don’t realize is that tanning beds are just as harmful as sun exposure, if not more so.
The UV radiation emitted by tanning beds is the same UV radiation that causes skin cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified tanning beds as ‘carcinogenic to humans.
So, what are 20 minutes in a tanning bed equivalent to? The answer may surprise you. Keep reading to find out!
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and it is one of the most preventable types of cancer too. Of the three most common types of skin cancer two are caused by Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The third type, malignant melanoma, can be caused by both UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds (or other sources of artificial UV radiation). Skin cancer is most common in people who have had a lot of exposure to the sun over their lifetime, but it is important to note that this exposure doesn’t have to be all at once. Any amount of UV radiation exposure can increase your risk of skin cancer, making it all the more important to limit how much time you spend in the sun. Tanning Beds:
Tanning beds
are lightboxes that emit UV radiation. In the past, people mostly used tanning beds to get a tan, but recent studies have shown that they are more dangerous than sun exposure. This is because they emit a type of UV radiation known as UVA, which is more intense than the UVB rays given off by the sun. As mentioned above, the UVA radiation given off by tanning beds has been linked to an increased risk of developing skin cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified UVA radiation from tanning beds as ‘carcinogenic to humans. In addition to skin cancer, tanning beds have also been linked to eye damage, premature photoaging, and an increased risk of skin infections.
The Risks
For this reason, it is important to be aware of the risks of tanning beds and to limit how much time you spend on them. It is recommended that you should not spend more than 20 minutes in a tanning bed. In terms of UV radiation exposure, 20 minutes in a tanning bed is equivalent to 4 hours in the sun. In addition, people with fair skin, people who are prone to burn easily, and people who have a family history of skin cancer should be particularly careful when using tanning beds. It is recommended that these people avoid tanning beds altogether, as they are at an even greater risk of developing skin cancer.
How to Stay Safe
The best way to stay safe when using tanning beds is to limit the amount of time you spend in them. Never exceed the recommended 20 minutes in any one session and take extra care if you have fair skin, are prone to burning, or have a family history of skin cancer. Most importantly, make sure you use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before, during, and after every tanning session. It is also important to do regular skin checks for any signs of skin cancer. Look for any changes in moles, spots, or blemishes, as well as any new growths on the skin. If you do notice any changes, get them checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Tanning beds have become increasingly popular, but they are just as dangerous as spending time in the sun, if not more so. The answer to the question ‘what is 20 minutes in a tanning bed equivalent to?’ may surprise you – just 20 minutes in the sun is equal to 4 hours in the sun. That’s why it’s important to limit how much time you spend in tanning beds, use sun protection, and regularly check for any signs of skin cancer.
Looking for a place to get your tan on?
Tan By The Sea offers both UV tanning and spray tanning services. We also offer a variety of spa services.
We want to help you look and feel your best. Our team of experts will help you choose the right tanning option for you and provide you with the best possible service.
Come in today for a free consultation!
For more information about our services call us at 760-729-1792 or visit our website: https://www.tanbythesea.com/
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