Tanning Beds: Warning Signs

Tanning Beds: Warning Signs Related Information:

We all long for a golden tan and a radiant glow that will last the whole year round, but unfortunately we can’t all afford the time or money to jet off on vacation every few weeks in order to top up that tan in some exotic location. This is why millions of people rely on sunless tanning products in order to achieve a healthy, bronzed glow. There are many products available today, and one of the most popular methods of tanning without having to lie in the sun is the tanning bed.

When you are using a tanning bed, it is vital that you are aware of the signs of danger to the skin. It is important to catch any skin problems early on, when they can be addressed and treated in a timely fashion. It is important that you do not over do your exposure time on the tanning bed, and you should always check with an experienced member of staff with regards to exposure times – this can depend on the type of tanning bed used, the type of bulb in the tanning bed, and your skin type.

There are a number of people that should avoid using tanning beds due to their susceptibility to the dangers of UV rays and light. Certain factors increase the chances of getting skin cancers, and therefore people affected by these factors need to reduce the risks be avoiding the sources of skin cancer. People that should avoid tanning beds, other indoor tanning equipment that simulate the sun, and of course, the sun itself include:

Those under the age of sixteen

Those with sensitive skin or fair skin that normally burns or does not tan in the sun

Those with a history of severe sunburn, especially during their childhood

Those with a lot of freckles and/or red hair. Also, those with extremely fair hair

Those with a lot of moles or lesions

Those taking certain medications or creams which may sensitize the skin to sunlight. You should check with your doctor to ensure that your medication or other product will not increase the dangers

Those with a family history of skin cancer

It is important to learn more about the signs of danger, and it is equally important to keep your eyes open for any sign of these dangers. Regular skin checks in a full length mirror and when you shower or bathe will help to identify any problems. If you do come across any irregularity that concerns you, it is a good idea to get it checked out by your doctor – never assume that it is nothing and leave it to fester.

If you have a mole, you should look out for any changes in appearance or depth. Also, because most moles have already appeared by the age of thirty, any new moles appearing after this time should be closely monitored or queried with your doctor. Moles that are blurry or jagged at the edge, are not symmetrical, have changed in color or have irregularities in color, are larger than 5mm, or are raised and uneven, can all indicate danger and should be looked in to as soon as possible.

You should also look out for bleeding moles, itchy moles, a mole that grows quickly, sores that do not heal, discoloration of the skin, changes in texture of the skin, lesions, and any other irregularity in the skin. Remember, skin cancers can be successfully treated if caught early, and it is therefore important to keep a regular check on your skin and make sure that you seek assistance if you see any cause for concern.