Are tanning beds safer than natural sunlight?
Dr. Jaggi Rao, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Alberta, replies: The short answer is no. The question is similar to asking if cigarettes are safer than cigars. Both forms of smoking can make us feel better, but ultimately the risks outweigh any potential benefits. In the same way, there is no such thing as a safe tan. Although we often associate tanned skin with “health,” it is actually an indication of skin damage and is the body’s way of protecting itself from more UV light exposure. Many people turn to tanning beds thinking they are a safer alternative to sunbathing as they largely emit a form of ultraviolet light called “UVA.” Contrary to the earlier belief that UVA rays are safe and non-burning, it is now well-known that UVA rays can definitely damage the skin. In fact, UVA rays have the potential to burn much more deeply and severely than any other form of UV light. In fact, recent studies show that tanning bed users are twice as likely to develop
