5 Reasons to Stop Using Tanning Beds

Are tanning beds safe? Simply put, the answer is no. If you find yourself dreading fall and winter because you can't get out under the sun, you might be willing to visit tanning beds. Before heading to your local tanning salon, there are some things you need to know. Here are five reasons why you need to stop using them immediately:

1. UV Rays from Tanning Beds Cause Cancer

UV rays from the sun have the potential to cause skin cancer - that's why you should always limit your exposure to the sun as much as possible. If you think that a tanning bed is a safer alternative, you're wrong.

Tanning beds expose you to the same UV light that comes from the sun, and it has been found to cause cancer as well. Tanning beds are not a safer alternative to suntanning and should be avoided at all costs.

2. UV Rays Damage Your Body

Not only do the UV rays from a tanning bed increase your risk of developing cancer, but they cause other bodily damage as well. Once UV rays penetrate your skin, they break down the elastin and collagen that can be found in the upper layers. This can lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.

UV rays also encourage the increased production of melanin. This is the element in your body that tans your skin, but it can also lead to dark spots and blotches. Since one of the goals of tanning is to even out your skin and reduce the appearance of these spots, a tanning bed won't help you with that.

Tanning beds can also cause eye damage. Exposure to UV rays can contribute to ocular melanomas and cataracts. If you are genetically predisposed to macular degeneration, then a tanning bed could speed this process along.

3. Tanning Beds Can Suppress Your Immune System

It has been found that exposing yourself to the UVB rays found in tanning beds suppresses your immune system. This means that your body won't be able to fight off infections and illnesses as well as it normally does. Whether it's the common cold or something more serious, your immune system needs to be in top working condition to keep you healthy. Avoiding tanning beds is in your immune system's best interest.

4. Tanning Beds are More Dangerous Than the Sun

Don't believe the lie that using a tanning bed is safer than being out in the sun. As we've mentioned before, a tanning bed emits that same UV rays that the sun does, and the rays can be a lot more intense.

The intensity of the sun's UV rays can vary depending on the time of day, the weather, and the season. Tanning beds always emit the same UV intensity regardless, but the prolonged exposure is just as dangerous for the body.

6. Tanning Beds Can be Addictive

You might also enjoy the endorphins that are released during your session. Endorphins are chemicals naturally produced by the body that trigger positive feelings. Studies have found that people can become addicted to tanning, which may lead them to repetitive behavior. When that occurs, you're increasing your chances of developing skin cancer and doing damage to your body every time you get into a tanning bed.

Tanning Alternatives

Are tanning beds bad for you? Yes, without a doubt. The real question is, how do I get tan without a tanning bed? The best and safest way to achieve your tanning goals is to use self-tanners.

Before you roll your eyes, it's important to realize that formulations have made significant improvements since these products were first introduced.

Prevent that dreaded orange tan with Fake Bake self-tanning products. These will give you the sun-kissed glow you are hoping for:

• Double Shot Espresso

If you are hoping to get the darkest, richest tan possible, then this is exactly what you're looking for. This dark self-tanner will make it look like you've spent countless hours outside, but without the exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays.

• Original Self-Tan Lotion

If you're looking for a way to make your tan more subtle and darken it gradually, then this is the self-tan lotion you'll want to consider. It will even out your skin tone and tan your skin while moisturizing. Once you reach your desired color, you can reapply the lotion once the color starts to fade to maintain your golden glow.

Tan Responsibly

At Fake Bake, we totally understand that being pale and pasty isn't an option. We want you to look your very best, but we also want you to be safe. Instead of using tanning beds, use self-tanning products. We have a wide range of products to choose from to help you keep your glow without damaging UV rays. We are sure you'll find one that will make you look dazzling. Check out our self-tanners today!