Tanning Beds

Tanning beds are cosmetic devices that rely on ultraviolet formation to tan-like skin reactions. Regular tanning beds include a varying number of phosphor lamps that emit ultraviolets; depending on the size of

the device, the number of lamps could be larger or smaller. Very professional tanning beds incorporate quartz lamps instead of phosphor lamps, but they also require supplementary filters and reflecting devices for showing efficiency. As the name suggests it, tanning beds make the user assume a lying position, at the opposite of tanning booths where one has to stand. One other major difference between tanning beds and booths is the higher power output specific to the latter.

Tanning beds are subject to heated debates at present, as the World Health Organization warns against the use of such devices for cosmetic purposes. To give just an example of damage tanning beds can cause it suffices to say that eye protection is absolutely necessary because of the risk to get blind. Negligence to respect this safety procedure could trigger very serious health problems. Statistics indicate that the tanning beds applications vary in various parts of the globe, and the gap comes from the technical peculiarity of the devices. Americans seem to enjoy indoor tanning more than Europeans, and the tanning beds they rely on usually emit more UVB light than those present in Europe.

Tanning beds should not be alternated with open sun exposure given the high risk of developing sunburn. The risk comes from the fact that tanning beds do not create a deep base tan, and once you get on the beach, the profound skin layers would be exposed to the harmful action of the sun rays. Outdoor and indoor tanning could be alternated but with some time lapse in between. Moreover, the application of protective lotions and sunscreens remains a must; the element that could differ under the circumstances is the ultraviolet protection factor.