Taking into account the risks due to overexposure to the sun, I think it is necessary that we periodically review the ideas we have about tanning. Even though it is but a skin response to protect itself from radiation (The so-called UV rays), to which a hormone called melanin contributes, are still attributed with characteristics related to beauty or health when one is tanned. And I'm not saying that a woman isn't beautiful if she's tanned, what I'm saying is that that skin tone is a warning from the agency.
It turns out that, without reaching the extreme of tanorexia, there is a certain tendency to exaggerating the supposed benefits of tanningTo the point that (as you know) you can achieve this look at any time of year by visiting a beauty salon with tanning beds that allow you to tan your skin even without being in the sun. The first myth to debunk is: 'it's not dangerous to get a tan in a tanning bed,' because Their harmful effects have been proven.
It is said that we can attribute 5,4 percent of skin cancers to these tanning systems, all of which are completely preventable simply by not using tanning beds. It is worth remembering that UVA rays make up the majority of UV radiation that reaches the surfaceWhile UVB rays are less abundant but more energetic. And it is precisely this radiation High-intensity UVA The type offered by most tanning salons often contains a small, regulated fraction of UVB rays. This composition does not eliminate the risk. UVA rays penetrate deeper and cause cumulative damage.
It appears that young women are the main users of canned sunscreen (although it's prohibited for those under 18 in some countries). It's precisely before reaching the age of majority that they accumulate [of these substances]. much of the damage is permanent caused by sun exposure or artificial tanning, because the skin is still immature… in fact, it is said that 'the skin has memory', which translated means: Don't take risks Because today's excesses can take their toll tomorrow.
Artificial tanning is not health
In addition to the skin, and risk of contracting one of the cancers of this largest organ in the body (it covers us completely); it turns out that tanning beds produce UV ray levels far higher than those we get from the sun. We've said that they emit mainly UVA rays, but in a very intense and concentrated wayThese damages result, among other things, in cataracts and macular degeneration, and have been associated with uveal cancer.
Much greater individual and collective awareness is needed, since according to information from the American Academy of Dermatology, within the percentage of 'sun users' who are aware of the risks, a good portion He prefers to take them on in exchange for a supposed attraction.I sincerely believe that beauty stereotypes are affecting us a lotAnd I'm worried that this is happening after adolescence, because it makes little sense for adults to still express that desire to be accepted because of their skin tone.
Proven risks and health classification
UV tanning beds are classified as a group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), meaning there is conclusive evidence that they cause cancer in humans. Their use increases the risk of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. The risk is higher when use begins at a young age and increases with each accumulated session.
In addition to skin cancer, UVA radiation promotes accelerated photoaging (wrinkles, blemishes and loss of elasticity), cutaneous immunosuppression which facilitates viral infections and reactivations such as herpes, and eye damage (keratitis, cataracts and retinal lesions) when approved glasses are not used.
The intensity of some cabins can be equivalent to a extreme UV index comparable to a tropical sunincreasing the likelihood of burns even without a sensation of heat. Radiation damage is cumulative and irreversible, regardless of whether it comes from the sun or from a device.
Common myths about tanning beds
- “A protective base tan”A myth. Tanning beds offer very low protection; It does not prevent burns and can induce a false sense of security.
- “Prepare your skin for summer”False. The booths color by melanin oxidation without the progressive thickening of the epidermis that occurs with gradual exposure to the sun.
- “It's good for vitamin D”No. Vitamin D synthesis depends on the UVBwhich are very limited in cabins; effective intake is achieved with moderate sunlight on small areas or with diet and supplements.
- “They are safe because they are fast”: do not. Short but intense sessions Concentrated UVA rays also damage DNA and connective tissue.
This is what you should know
That I'm explaining all of this to you probably won't make you want to lie down in one of those closed beds to get a little radiation. In that case, and without the intention of getting too heavy, I also have to say that the benefits of the sun for people are various, among others, the contribution of Vitamin D, But The production of this vitamin depends on UVB raysSo forget about it if you're getting a tan in a tanning bed (they mainly emit UVA rays). And now, never forget these tips.
- Make sure the beauty center has authorization to carry out the activity.
- Know your skin type, and based on that, assumes the recommended limits by the manufacturer of the artificial tanning equipment.
- Before the exhibition, remove all cosmetic products that you have applied to your skin and don't wear perfumes.
- If you are taking antibiotics, antiseptics, sleeping pills, or antidepressants, do not use booths tanning.
- Follow the manufacturer's recommendations also regarding the distance from the lamp, and the duration/frequency of the sessions.
- Use approved eyeglasses and specifically designed to absorb radiation; never enter wearing contact lenses.
- If at any point in your life you have suffered skin lesions (wounds, blisters, or simple redness…) ask your doctor if they advise you to use artificial tanning.
- The cosmetic use of UVA It is not a risk-free practice and the effects accumulate over time.
- Completely avoid exposure if you belong to phototypes I–II or if you burn easily.
- If you still decide to put yourself out there, reports on photosensitizing medicationsprotects eyes and sensitive areasUse sun protection and Moisturizes the skin after each session.
After the session, follow the instructions of the center's staff, and take care of your skin. hydrating it.
In no case do you use these services if you burn easily, Nor if you have lesions on the lips, or a specific medical condition such as lupus and vitiligo. People with diagnosed immune suppression are contraindicated in solar cabinets. And those that habitually use cosmetics or photosensitive drugs, too. In special cases, it is always better to ask the doctor.
Exposure time and skin phototype
Exposure time varies depending on the phototypeExceeding the recommended doses increases the risk of burns. As a general guideline used by some centers: Phototype I, zero minutes; Phototype II, 10 minutes; Phototype III, 15 minutes; Phototype IV or higher, 20 minutesThe sessions must be spaced and never combine it with sun exposure on the same day.
Who is most at risk
- Children under 18 years old and young people: more vulnerable skin and greater accumulation of damage.
- People with phototype I or IIvery fair or sensitive skin, red hair and light eyes.
- Who have numerous moles or freckles, previous premalignant or malignant lesions, or a family history of skin cancer.
- People with weakened immune system or with sun-damaged skin.
- Women pregnant women and people who have received intense sun exposure in the last 48 hours.
Phototypes and UV sensitivity:
- IVery fair skin/blond or red hair, light eyes; always burns, It doesn't tan.
- II: fair skin, light eyes; burns easily, minimal tan.
- III: slightly tanned skin, brown eyes; burns less easily, tans gradually.
- IV: light brown; burns little, tans well.
- VDark brown; rarely burns, It tans a lot..
- VI: very dark/black; it doesn't burn, intense darkening.
Before and after the exhibition: expanded checklist
- Clean skin, without makeup, oils, deodorants or perfumes; remove jewelry and metal objects.
- Respect the center's guidelines: Leave 48 hours between the first two sessions.
- Check with the center total cumulative dose and your session history.
- Intensively hydrates after the session and do not expose yourself to the sun afterwards.
- Ante redness, blisters, or pain, suspend new sessions and consult with dermatology.
Obligations and controls of the centers
- Periodic technical inspections of the cabins by authorized entities and maintenance record.
- Individual user record with phototype, recommended guideline, sessions and cumulative dose.
- Disinfection of the cabins after each use and availability of approved glasses.
- Visible brochures with risk warnings and signed informed consent.
- First aid kit first aid and complaint forms available.
The condition of the lamps matters: when they wear out, it can decrease UVA and increase UVBincreasing the risk of burns. Hence the importance of health monitoring.
Self-tanners and other alternatives
Los self tanning (creams, foams, mists, wipes) achieve a tan without UV radiation thanks to the dihydroxyacetone (DHA)which reacts with the surface cells of the skin and temporarily stains them. These are options more secure because they do not damage DNA or collagen.
Remember that they don't contribute sun protection factor Unless explicitly stated otherwise, they may cause reactions in sensitive skin. tanning accelerators When used in the sun, they are not recommended: they accelerate the tan at the expense of increase damage and the risk of sunburn if a high SPF is not used.
Regulatory context and recommendations
It is in several countries Prohibited for use by minors and is not recommended for pregnant women. International organizations such as the WHO, IARC and ICNIRP They recommend against using UV-emitting devices for cosmetic purposes and warn of their proven risks. In some places, their use has even been banned. Commercial use of cabins due to their impact on public health.
I'm sure that as an adult woman you can make the best decision for your health. Taking care of your skin involves... protect it from excessive UVBe wary of myths and choose alternatives that don't compromise your future. A golden tone should never cost more wrinkles, more blemishes, or a higher risk of cancerYour skin will be with you for life, treat it with respect.