5 Facts about Tanning Beds

Thanks to the advent of tanning beds, or sun beds, you can build a beautiful tan in short bursts that fit nicely into your busy schedule. Tanning has now become a part of our lives and beds are one of the quickest and easiest ways to get a natural and sunless tan. Here are some facts you may not know about these modern marvels.

1. They're Quick: Newer tanning beds have been made to get you in and out in as short a time period as possible. This means that you can go for a session on a lunch break or after work and still make it home in time for dinner. The short exposure period also limits the chances of burning, which makes today's beds safer than they've ever been before.

2. They Can be UVA Only: Many tanning beds today use only UVA bulbs, instead of both UVA and UVB. UVB light bulbs have been linked to the burning reaction in your skin. The less burning you have, the less likely you are to develop complications or side effects from the use of these machines.

3. They Vary in Strength: Home tanning beds only have around 12-28, 100 watt lamps while salons use beds containing 24-60 lamps. This means that your exposure with home beds is limited, which reduces the chances of burning. However, people with tanning beds at home tend to use them incorrectly more often. Salons encourage you to start with a beginners bed and move up over time as well as provide you with sunscreens that are effective at protecting your skin. If you have a tanning bed at home or are thinking about getting one, make sure you how to to use it correctly and safely.

4. They Require 'Indoor Lotion': Your outdoor tanning lotion or sunscreen is NOT recommended for use in tanning beds. Indoor lotions are designed to let the rays penetrate through while still protecting your skin.

5. They Cause Tanning in 2 Phases: Tanning is actually a two phase process. Initially, you experience a darkening because of your skin's response to direct UV rays. 48-72 hours later, your skin goes through another layer of darkening. This is why you should always, ALWAYS leave 2 to 3 days between sessions.

Although there have been recent concerns about health issues related to the use of tanning beds, if used properly, tanning beds can provide you with essential vitamins that can make your bones and teeth stronger. There have even been studies that imply that regular sun exposure actually prevents skin cancer. Don't let worry warts get in the way of you and your stellar, sun-kissed look.