Frequently Asked Questions About Tanning Beds

Tanning beds are a popular way to get a suntan without spending time outdoors. While this approach may provide you with a year-round tan, it also has the potential to be unsanitary or a health risk. Another misconception is that using a tanning bed before a beach vacation will prevent sunburn; however, this is not always the case. Does this Spark an idea?

Are Tanning Beds Sanitary?

Tanning beds require the same high level of sanitation as hotel room beds. Both beds need to be cleaned from previous use to eliminate the possibility of germs. However, while hotel bed sheets are replaced with clean sheets, tanning beds have to be physically cleaned with a chemical to thoroughly remove sweat, germs and body hair. State laws have established criteria about tanning bed sanitation to address this issue.

However, the sanitation chemicals can cause dermatological problems if they are not properly diluted. For example, in one case a girl developed a rash (irritant dermatitis) due to undiluted sanitary chemicals after tanning prior to her prom, according to DermAtlas.

Do Tanning Beds Protect From Sunburn?

Using a tanning bed prior to a trip to the beach might give you a nice base body color, but it cannot guarantee sunburn prevention, according to the Mayo Clinic. Tanning bed use can provide a small amount of pre-sun exposure protection (SPF 4 or less), but it isn't enough to prevent sunburn from extended time in the sun after just a few minutes time at the beach.

The only known ways to prevent sunburn are to cover up or frequently use a liberal amount of sunscreen. It's also beneficial to stay out of the sun between 10 AM and 4 PM.

Can Tanning Beds Cause Health Problems

The Utah government, for example, believes tanning beds do pose health threats. Utah requires that tanning salons post warning signs advising customers about these potential dangers. The signs must meet the following stringent design requirements: each sign must use specific colors (white background, orange-colored panel at top, black lettering); use arial font (the word "warning" must be in 80 point font and the words "ultraviolet radiation" in 39 point, both in all CAPS); and the sign must measure 11 inches by 17 inches.

The warning sign must include an internationally recognized safety alert symbol, as well as five health warnings and recommendations, which are as follows: eye protection is recommended to prevent blindness; pregnant women--or those using contraceptives--should speak with their doctor prior to sunbed use; skin cancer or severe skin damage may result from exposure; some types of medicine and cosmetics increase susceptibility to burning; and tanning sessions are limited to one per each 48 hour period.

But Utah isn't the only state that warns citizens of potential health concerns. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 32 states have laws in effect regarding tanning, especially for the health protection of teens, which became a growing health concern addressed legislatively in 2010.