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Commercial Sunbeds
While home sunbeds are becoming increasingly popular, many people do not have the means to afford one or the space to install it in their home. This leaves commercial sunbeds as the obvious choice. The indoor tanning industry is thriving, with increasing numbers of entrepreneurs choosing to invest in commercial sunbeds. Consequently, it is now easier than ever for people to find a salon close to home where they can incorporate regular tanning sessions into their beauty routine.
Commercial sunbeds come in two designs. By far the most popular model is the horizontal sunbed. Some larger tanning salons also offer vertical sunbeds – commonly known as tanning booths – but these are generally loss popular as you need to stand while you tan, which results in a much less comfortable or relaxing experience.
Older models of commercial sunbeds tend to emit higher levels of UVB but most salons have now replaced these beds with more modern models which work predominantly on UVA rays. UVA rays have been publicised as being much safer, however they are still carcinogenic and have been linked to an increased risk of malignant melanoma. Therefore it is important to practise safe tanning and not be tempted to use sunbeds excessively.
An integral part of safe tanning is keeping your sessions to a 'safe' time limit. The staff at the salon should be able to give you guidelines for the best tanning regime for your skin type, but as a guideline the lower melanin levels in your skin the shorter your session should be. People with type I or II skin - fair skin which burns easily and tans very little when tanning outdoors – should restrict their sessions to no more than 5 minutes. People with higher melanin levels can lengthen this time to between 15 and 30 minutes, but it is still necessary to take preventative measures against the danger of sunbeds.
When visiting a commercial sunbed you will be provided with a pair of protective goggles to protect your eyes from UV damage. It is important to wear these as the eyes are extremely susceptible to the harmful effect of UVA and UVB, and without these goggles you can cause permanent damage to your eye sight. Closing your eyes is not enough protection.
Always take a good sunbed lotion. Tanning salons do not allow use of outdoor lotions as these can damage the beds and cause a greasy build up. A good sunbed lotion can help minimise the less appealing side effects of the UVA rays, such as premature ageing as well as providing essential moisture to the skin.
Some people should avoid the use of commercial sunbeds altogether. Most reputable tanning salons will not admit under 16s, as their skin is still growing on a cellular level and therefore more vulnerable to damage from UV rays. Using a sunbed at such an immature age can greatly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Pregnant women should consult their doctor or midwife before using a sunbed, and may be required to present a doctor's certificate at the tanning salon. Finally, if you are taking any medications check with your doctor or salon staff before tanning, as some medications cause photosensitivity as a side effect.
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