Should you use sunscreen in a tanning bed?

Can you use regular sunscreen in a tanning bed?

Regular broad spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB, the same types of UV radiation emitted by tanning lamps. That is general UV protection guidance, not a way to make a tanning session safe. Most tanning lamps emit both types; some emit only UVA. SPF measures UVB protection, so a high SPF number alone is not enough: look for broad spectrum protection too.234

Will sunscreen stop you tanning or burning?

Not completely. Even the highest SPF sunscreen cannot block all UV light, so you can still tan or burn while wearing it. Sunscreen slows skin damage; it does not turn deliberate UV exposure into a healthy activity. A tan develops when your skin produces more melanin, the pigment that darkens skin, in response to UV exposure. The colour is a sign of damage, not evidence that sunscreen has made tanning harmless.15

Why avoid a tanning bed even with sunscreen?

Tanning beds expose skin to concentrated UV radiation and are linked to skin cancer, premature ageing, sunburn and eye damage. Indoor tanning is not safer than tanning outdoors. A tanning bed brings tanning indoors, which is a change of venue rather than a new kind of tan. Getting a base tan also damages skin and does not prevent sunburn when you later go outside.456

Who needs particular caution?

Avoiding tanning beds applies to everyone. Do not use them if you are under 18, burn easily without tanning, have a personal or family history of skin cancer, or have skin lesions or open wounds. Some medicines increase sensitivity to UV rays; ask your doctor or pharmacist whether yours does. If you are receiving radiation therapy, avoid tanning devices and use the sunscreen your cancer care team recommends.37

How can you look tan without a tanning bed?

Use a sunless tanning lotion or cream instead of UV tanning. A self tanner gives skin the appearance of a tan without a tanning bed, so the appointment can become a bottle on the shelf. Many contain DHA, a colour additive that reacts with dead surface skin cells; the colour usually lasts several days. Follow the product directions and keep self tanner away from your eyes, nose and mouth. Avoid inhaling tanning sprays. The resulting colour does not protect you from UV rays, and most sunless tanning products contain no sunscreen.136

How should you use sunscreen outdoors?

1. 1Choose a water resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
2. 2Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors. Most adults need at least 1 ounce to cover exposed skin; include your ears, neck and the tops of your feet.
3. 3Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors, and after swimming or sweating, following the bottle directions.
4. 4Use shade, protective clothing, a hat and UV protective sunglasses alongside sunscreen.

What if you have already used a tanning bed?

Sunburn can take 6 to 48 hours to develop, so feeling fine immediately afterwards does not rule out a burn. Cool sore skin with cool water or a cool shower, and avoid further UV exposure while it heals. Seek medical help if you feel unwell or your skin swells badly or blisters. Check your skin monthly and have any new or changing spot or mole assessed by a healthcare professional.346