Why does the type of tanning lamp matter?

UV means ultraviolet radiation. UVB helps the skin produce vitamin D3, which supports bone and muscle health alongside calcium. Most tanning lamps emit both UVA and UVB, but some emit only UVA. The vitamin D question depends on the lamp's UV output, not how convincingly the bed resembles a wellness device.12

The amount of UVB exposure needed for vitamin D production depends on your diet, skin colour, clothing, sunscreen use, location, time of day and season. A session length cannot be treated as a standard vitamin D dose. The FDA has not cleared or approved any indoor tanning device for producing vitamin D.1

Is the vitamin D benefit worth tanning?

No. Both UVA and UVB damage skin. Indoor tanning increases the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Other risks include premature skin ageing, sunburn and eye irritation. Excess UV exposure also affects the immune system. Producing vitamin D does not remove these harms.1456

A timer and controlled lamp intensity do not make a tanning bed safe. Skin cancer risk remains even when you follow the equipment's exposure instructions. Sunburn can take 6 to 48 hours to develop, so skin that looks fine immediately after a session can still be burned.2

How can you get vitamin D instead?

Food sources include oily fish, red meat, egg yolks and some mushrooms. Fortified foods can also supply vitamin D, including some milks, yoghurts, breakfast cereals and margarine spreads. Check which foods are fortified rather than assuming every product in those categories contains vitamin D.3

Vitamin D supplements are sold in pharmacies, supermarkets and health food shops, without requiring an appointment with a lamp. If you think you have symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, speak to your GP rather than trying to treat the problem with tanning sessions.3

Who needs extra caution?

Avoid tanning beds, especially if you are under 18, burn easily, have a personal or family history of skin cancer, or have open wounds. Some medicines and topical products increase UV sensitivity, including certain antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide. Check the label and ask your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medicine.12

After UV exposure, seek medical help if you feel unwell or your skin becomes badly swollen or blistered. Arrange a dermatologist appointment promptly for a new or changing mole, or one that itches or bleeds.45

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1Ultraviolet (UV) Radiationfda.gov
  2. 2Tanning Productsfda.gov
  3. 3Vitamin Dbridgeviewmedical.nhs.uk
  4. 4Melanomaaad.org
  5. 5Sunscreen and sun safetynhs.uk
  6. 6Sunbeds cause cancerwho.int