ETS Tanning Bed Blog

Everyone in the tanning industry has been faced with the question “is tanning bad for you?” and it’s a tricky one that can leave many of us tongue-tied. If you struggle with this, remember that the best answer is the truth.

Tell your clients or potential clients the basic truth about tanning:

1. Tanning can give you a base tan and protect your skin against bad sunburns.

No, tanning won’t prevent any and all burns, but it can help protect you against the bad burns which are, more often than not, the culprits when it comes to an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

1. Your body probably needs more vitamin D.

Vitamin D has been shown to reduce numerous cancer risks (colon, pancreas, stomach) and help with bone frailty and high blood pressure. In fact, a recent article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences said that despite the skin cancer risks associated with sun exposure, “there may be more beneficial than adverse effects of moderately increased sun exposure.”

1. Indoor tanning is monitored by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

That means indoor tanning and its equipment and practices have to meet certain safety standards set out by the US government.

1. Yes, UV Exposure can cause cancer.

By definition, UV rays and exposure to a sun lamp is considered a carcinogen (cancer-causing agent). But, so are using your cell phone, washing your hair with dandruff shampoos, using most plastic products and numerous other activities that, when done in moderation, are typically fine.

So, the next time someone asks you “is tanning bad for you?,” just take a deep breath and answer them truthfully and directly. Yes, UV exposure can cause skin cancer, but the benefits of regular tanning can often outweigh those risks.