Tanning Bed vs. Sun: Which is More Dangerous?

You might be surprised to learn that, despite knowing the risks, millions of people still use tanning beds. In fact, studies show approximately 7.8 million adults in the U.S. still use indoor tanning. This is concerning given both tanning beds and excessive sun exposure expose us to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Overexposure to UV radiation results in premature aging and is the primary cause of skin cancer.

With more than 5.4 million non-melanoma skin cancer cases diagnosed annually in the U.S., plus over 100,000 cases of melanoma, it's crucial to understand the risks of sun exposure. Rachel Koziczkowski, MD, FAAD, UnityPoint Health, sets the record straight on getting your glow from tanning beds vs. the sun.

Are Tanning Beds Worse Than the Sun?

Many believe a tan signifies health, but it's actually your skin's response to damage. When exposed to the sun's UVA and UVB rays, your skin produces more melanin to protect itself, resulting in a tan. While some UVB exposure is necessary for vitamin D production (15 minutes in the morning or evening sun is sufficient), prolonged sun exposure, even with a 'base tan' from a tanning bed, significantly increases skin cancer risk and won't prevent sunburn.

Are Tanning Beds Bad for You?

While some believe tanning in a bed is safer, tanning beds emit 12 times more UVA radiation than the sun. UVA rays are primarily linked to premature aging of the skin, causing wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Using tanning beds before age 35 also increases your risk of developing malignant melanoma by 75%.

Do You Get Vitamin D from Tanning Beds?

Many people also mistakenly believe that tanning beds are a reliable source of vitamin D. Tanning beds predominantly emit UVA rays, accounting for up to 98% of their radiation, whereas UVB rays are essential for vitamin D production in the body.

Using tanning beds before age 35 can increase your risk of developing malignant melanoma by 75%. 

Is Tanning Bad for You?

Increased Risk of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the skin. The primary types of skin cancer are melanoma and non-melanoma.

• Melanoma: Cancer of the skin that develops in the cells called melanocytes. These cells produce the pigment that gives our skin its color. This is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
• Non-Melanoma: This refers to all forms of skin cancer that are not melanoma. The most common non-melanoma skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Premature Skin Aging and Wrinkles

There's no such thing as a healthy tan. Tanning, whether from the sun or indoor tanning, damages your skin. UV radiation exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, causing premature wrinkling. Over-stressing your pigment producing cells through repeated UV exposure results in your skin looking blotchy and aged in the long run.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer

Protecting your skin from UV radiation is key to skin cancer prevention. Here are some simple steps you can take:

• Apply sunscreen in sufficient amounts, and reapply every two hours to keep your skin protected
• Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Don't use tanning beds
• Get routine skin screenings from a dermatologist or primary care provider
• Perform monthly skin self-exams
• Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) 30 or higher, if the sun's rays are unavoidable
• Wear light protective layers to cover skin, such as long sleeve tops, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses

How to Get a Healthy Tan

We know you’ve heard it a million times, but one of the best things you can do for you skin is to wear SPF each day. If you’re already in the habit of using a face and body lotion each day, then this will be an easy transition. Simply start using a lotion with at least SPF 30 to protect yourself for the first part of your day and then reapply if in the sun. This also goes for the winter months when the sun's rays can be just as intense as in summer.