Is the occasional sunbed bad for you?

Sunbeds give out ultraviolet (UV) rays that increase your risk of developing skin cancer (both malignant melanoma and non-melanoma). Many sunbeds give out greater doses of UV rays than the midday tropical sun.

What happens if you stay in a tanning bed for too long?

Researchers have proven many times that tanning beds expose the skin to unnaturally intense UV rays, the harmful impact of which can’t be overstated. More people develop skin cancer because of tanning than develop lung cancer because of smoking, and sometimes it develops at shockingly young ages.

Is using sunbeds in moderation OK?

The Sunbed Association claims there is no evidence that moderate use of a commercial sunbed will increase your risk of melanoma. This is not true – using a sunbed will increase your risk of getting skin cancer. Sunbeds emit UV rays that cause DNA damage.

What does tanning do to your skin long term?

It can cause cataracts, eye melanoma and other problems. Finally, medical research has proven that indoor tanning increases the risk of all types of skin cancer including melanoma, the deadliest form. Often the skin cancer does not develop until many years after exposure.

What are the risks of using a sunbed?

Sunbeds give out ultraviolet (UV) rays that increase your risk of developing skin cancer (both malignant melanoma and non-melanoma). Many sunbeds give out greater doses of UV rays than the midday tropical sun. The risks are greater for young people. Evidence shows: It’s illegal for people under the age of 18 to use sunbeds.

What happens to your skin when you use a sunbed?

However, as sunbed users aim to have an even tan, they often decide against protecting any part of their body. Users have reported a range of short-term symptoms including itching, dryness and redness of skin, freckling and photosensitivity. Common outcomes in the longer term, especially in fair-skinned people, may involve blistering of the skin.

What are the long term effects of sunburns?

Premature aging is a long-term side effect of UV exposure, meaning it may not show on your skin until many years after you have had a sunburn or suntan. Avoiding UV exposure is essential to maintaining healthy skin. There are two main types of skin cancer:

What kind of skin cancer can you get from sunbeds?

Prolonged exposure to UV rays increases your risk of developing malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. You cannot always see the damage UV rays cause. The symptoms of skin damage can take up to 20 years to appear.