Tanning beds is also known as sun tanning beds. They can be defined as a machine that produces ultraviolet radiation akin to sun rays that give a cosmetic tan. These beds come equipped with fluorescent lamps. There is another kind of tanning bed available that emits more powerful rays. These are loosely called ‘high pressure.’
Tanning beds are not only used for achieving a fake tan. Because of the heat it generates, people often use them as a way to rest and even cure aching muscles and joints. There is some research related to these beds that suggest tanning in them makes people ‘feel good.’ While there is no real conducive evidence to this, many people swear by the effect tan beds have on them.
Another benefit of tanning artificially is that you can control the amount of tan you get. As opposed to natural sun, one can enjoy the advantage of getting as little or as much tanned as they want. You may be living in a place that has very little sun or you may have a job that does not allow you the leisure of tanning. In these cases, beds come to your rescue. And you can use them according to your convenience.
Having listed the above facts, tanning beds have more cons than pros. All you achieve from a tanning bed is a tan. There are several ways of faking a tan. There are many tanning creams available that do not affect the skin adversely. Some of this damage is so permanent that one would probably regret that they should’ve just taken out some time to relax at the beach and get tanned rather than dealing with the problems that these devices eventually bring.
The number one problem that these beds lead to is skin cancer. Tanning beds release ultraviolet rays that are known and proven to be harmful to skin. Cancer is one of the biggest risks to skin. In fact, tanning beds are identified to be the main cause behind the most lethal form of skin cancer known as melanoma.
Next comes the damage it deals to the immune system. It weakens the system and makes us more susceptible to illnesses. Also, the direct exposure to rays and especially at such short distance causes the skin to age prematurely. Other skin related problems are brown spots, blotchiness, and wrinkles. It is also seen that they cause mutation of human DNA. If you use a bed with adequately protecting your eyes, you are vulnerable to an eye condition known as arc eye.
Another less investigated but important issue that has come to the fore is addiction to the bed. It has been seen that people who suffer from substance abuse and anxiety are more prone to get addicted to the heat of the bed. Individuals feel an improved mood and relaxed state of mind when using these beds. This is another risk posed by tanning beds.
In conclusion, it can be stated that tanning beds bring in more artificiality in our already manmade lifestyles.



