Sunbeds, also known as tanning beds are a kind of equipment that can give you that sought-after tanned look but without sitting in the sunlight. The use of sunbeds is extremely well-liked in countries where the lack of sunshine is a challenge to achieve an organic tan like here in the UK But what are the dangers and advantages of sunbeds?
How does sunbed hire Barnsley work?
The sunbed’s equipment emits UV-A and UV-B waves. These are the natural elements of sunlight. The UV-A and UVB waves increase melanin production, the chemical that gives skin the tanned appearance.
The timer is set and the patient is laid on the bed and soaks in UV radiation. A typical session takes 15-20 minutes . Upper limits are determined in accordance with the radiation levels of the particular sunbed as well as the approved limits.
In addition to the cosmetic benefits There is a belief that sunbeds may provide health benefits as well. But, there are some legitimate concerns sunbeds in relation to their usage.
This article will explain the benefits and risks associated with sunbeds, as well as the best practices to minimize the risks.
Help you achieve that perfect brown tan
This is perhaps the most obvious advantage of having sun beds. Being exposed to sunlight – whether either artificial or natural – can be the secret to a beautiful tanning. A “healthy” tanning session is always valued and makes you feel confident about yourself.
However, in many nations around the globe the weather doesn’t always allow the naked skin of people exposed to sun’s radiation. Sunbeds replicate the UV radiation the sun gives to your body, thereby helping to achieve that bronzed tan you’ve always desired.
Helps Your Body Get Vitamin D
Another well-known reason to use sunbeds. Many individuals believe UV radiation is harmful to the skin. This is a myth as UV radiation is harmful only when used in excess. It is actually important for your body’s exposure to UV radiation because it assists your body to synthesize Vitamin D which is commonly referred to as the sunshine vitamin, by removing its precursor substances. If you don’t get UV radiation the process stops and your body fails to create the quantity of Vitamin D.
For you to get an understanding of how important Vitamin D is to your body, here’s a list of roles Vitamin D is playing in different processes on a cellular and molecular levels:
Maintains the health and density of bones of teeth
Essential to the normal functioning of the nervous system, the brain and the immune system.
Aids in managing diabetes by controlling insulin levels
It is associated with the transcription of genes that control the growth of cancerous cells.
Although it is possible to supplement your diet to avoid Vitamin D deficiency sunbeds can help you get Vitamin D by transferring it into your body in a way which mimics natural processes.
Utilized To Treat certain skin conditions
Skin issues may range from being minorly uncomfortable to the severely painful, just like other ailments. But, even milder skin issues like acne, vitiligo and pruritus, might not just affect you physically but may also affect your confidence and social life and can make these conditions more severe than the clinical signs may suggest.
It has been proven the exposure of UV radiation, when combined with medical treatments can aid in reducing or even curing various skin disorders like acne, psoriasis or pruritus, atopic dermatitis Scleroderma, vitiligo and many more UV sensitive skin conditions.
The treatment, also known as phototherapy, was initially offered by dermatologists in their offices. But, a growing number of people turn to sunbeds as an alternative because of their affordability and accessibility.
It is possible to treat certain forms of Depression
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which is often referred to as depression of winter, is a kind of depression that affects those who live in higher altitudes during winter. The symptoms can include a fatigue and irritability, as well as increased sleepiness and weight gain as a result of fatigue, overeating and a heightened craving for carbohydrates.
The reason for this disorder is believed to be caused by the lack of sunlight. It is widely recognized that exposure to UV and sunlight radiation triggers the body to respond by releasing endorphins which can make people feel happy. However, the absence of this stimulant can cause seasonal Affective Disorder for those who are susceptible to it. Sunbeds have been proven to reduce the severity of this disorder in certain patients.
Although there are many benefits to sunbeds risks associated with sunbeds should not be overlooked either.
Risks Of Sunbeds
Overexposure to UV Rays
Sunbeds emit similar radiation to the sun, in the same precautions that must be taken just as if you go to the sun’s rays. The majority of people who use sunbeds belong to either frigid or temperate zones, and are unaware of the precautions to be observed when exposed to tropical radiation levels. They often are exposed to excessive UV radiation.
Age-related premature aging of the skin
Excessive exposure to UV has been associated with premature skin aging, which results in rough, leathery, and wrinkled appearance. This is due to the harmful impact on the skin caused by UVB.
More Risk of Melanoma
There are several studies that have found a link between the increasing instances of melanoma, which is one of the types of skin cancer to the increase in sunbeds. But, some experts believe that the increase in the incidence of cases is due to better earlier detection rates, inaccurate diagnosis as well as other environmental factors.
Reduced Risks When Sunbeds Sunbeds
Although there are some risks associated with sunbeds, the majority of them can be minimized by being educated and aware regarding the correct usage of sunbeds. Below are a few guidelines to help you enjoy all the benefits of sunbeds while minimizing the risks:
Don’t apply sunbeds without consulting with your physician. Ask a dermatologist what number of sessions of what length is appropriate for you, based on your skin type and associated conditions.
Only visit licensed and reputable tanning salons and tanning therapists. Many ‘hobbyist’ therapists aren’t knowledgeable and, if they are not aware, could cause serious harm to your health that could lead to you being entitled to make an application for sunbed compensation.
Limit your sunbed usage to a maximum of 10 sessions per year. Don’t overdo it, and don’t do two sessions within one day of each other.
It is important to ensure that you are away from sunlight the same day that you undergo the treatment since this could increase the risk of exposure.
