MYTH: Indoor tanning is stronger than natural sunlight.

 

This statement is used frequently when trying to describe the difference between output of the sun vs. sunbeds. However, the intensity of the sun is dependent on such factors as; time of day, time of year, proximity to the equator, and reflective surfaces such as sand, water, and snow. Sunlight has no standard transmission level. The sun’s intensity at midday in Australia certainly differs from one on a Mediterranean beach.

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MYTH: Pregnant women should avoid tanning beds because the UV emission could “microwave” the fetus.

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Indoor tanning beds do not emit microwaves, but (in most units) emit a mix of UVA and UVB wavelengths that can simply penetrate the top millimeters of the skin to create a cosmetic tan. These rays lack sufficient energy to penetrate any further. Pregnant women should avoid sunbeds and booths, as well as Jacuzzi’s, whirlpools, saunas and other sources of heat due to the possibility of raising their body’s core temperature.

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MYTH: Can a sunbed “fry” your internal organs?

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This urban legend has long been around for years and most versions have a young girl trying to obtain a tan before a prom or wedding by using a sunbed several times in one day. It would have absolutely made the mainstream media if it were true! Again, the UV rays emitted from a sunbed lack sufficient energy to penetrate past the top layers of the skin.

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Statement: Indoor tanning leads to wrinkled skin!

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Wrinkling of the skin can be a result of smoking, drinking alcohol, stress, outside elements such as the wind and toxins in our air. Overexposure to UV can also be included. But remember, as we age, our skin does as well.

 

Statement: There is no such thing as a safe tan.

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Indoor tanning provides a controlled environment to obtain a cosmetic tan in moderation and responsibility, by skin type and a timer, reducing the risk of overexposure and sunburn.