Is indoor tanning more harmful than outdoor tanning since the UV light exposure is more intense?
A. Tanning beds are designed to maximize tanning and minimize burning. When used according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s exposure guidelines (posted on each machine), people tanning indoors are exposed to a scientifically calibrated amount of UV light. Conversely, outdoor tanning is carried out in an unregulated environment. There are many factors that have to be considered when you tan outdoors: geography, time of day, weather conditions, the seasons, and the ozone layer. The best way to safeguard yourself from sun damage is to apply appropriate levels of SPF sunscreens – even if you already have a tan.
