Tanning Bed Dangers
Go to: Previous Article Next Article
The use of tanning beds on a regular basis carries many hidden dangers that some regular users may not be aware of. It is important that members of a culture that idealizes tanned skin be aware of the risks involved in this 5 billion dollar industry.
In western culture dominated by pasty white complexions, it's normal that we have evolved to desire and envy those capable of darker shades. But it is a dangerous fascination with the technology to harness ultraviolet rays and concentrate it into a pod which we proceed to immerse ourself. And as if that weren't crazy enough to use drugs and lotions that make our skin more sensitive to light so we can speed up the process by which the UV rays damage our skins.
What's more troubling is the unregulated practice of using tanning beds. Some tanning salons have their own rules when it comes to use but for some, it's a dangerous habit that needs at least a little regulation from a third party like smoking, drug, and alcohol use.
The negative effects mirror that of smoking. Cancers and disruption of normal body functions as well the imbalance it creates in the body are side effects of both over exposure to UV rays as well as smoking and other drugs. Drug induced photosensitivity heighten the effects of the tanning beds.
The short term damage to the skin from over exposure to UV rays range from burns to just dry, irritated skin. But extended use threatens the long term vitality of the skin leaving it prone to wrinkles and sagging as the exposure to UV radiation causes the skin to age faster, as well as increased risk of various forms of skin cancer.
Some people choose to speed up the tanning process by using drugs that make the skin more susceptible to ultraviolet rays. The drugs increase the skins sensitivity to the rays which results in more frequent burns.
Manufacturers and advertisers irresponsibly push tanning agents on unsuspecting, and stupidly unquestioning, consumers. These drugs promise to accelerate the tan but the quantities that they are used to induce the intended effect are not FDA approved.
It is up to the individual to stay educated and use products responsibly. Those who wish to use a tanning bed must be aware of the risks involved as well as the safer alternatives to blasting themselves with UV rays.
There are safer sunless tanning alternatives that are much safer and do not cause long term health risks. Many health associations do recommend the use of DHA based tanning lotions, which do not interact with any part of the body beyond the top layer of your skin which consists of dead skin cells.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
- Get Fit the healthy way tons of honest tips and tricks to lead a healthier life, also in progress a guide on how to stop smoking -
Word Count: 468
Reduce Your Debts Without Bankruptcy. See How Much You Can Save. Free Debt Analysis
