During the UK’s long, dark, wintery months, many of us feel desperate, deprived of sunlight and warmth, and start to grow frustrated with our pale skin.
Luckily, there are more affordable ways to go a little darker during the dreary seasons than booking two weeks off work to sit by a pool in Spain.
Millions of Brit’s each year turn to using sunbeds to improve their self-confidence and to remind them of how they look tanned in the summer. Sunbeds are easily accessible and often viewed as a quick resolution to self-esteem needs, but as with most things that provide a sense of instant gratification, come with their own side effects and risks.
Studies suggest there are several potential health risks of regular or even irregular sunbed use, including the following:
- Even one sunbed session has the potential to increase the risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer by some 67% as well as increasing the risk of basal cell skin cancer by 29%.
- After your first sunbed session, you’re instantly vulnerable to an increased risk of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.
- Using a sunbed before the age of 35 increases your risk of cancer by almost 60%.
Thankfully, if you’ve assessed the risks and still believe a sunbed is right for you, there are several ways that you’re able to protect your skin against cancers and other health issues before your first session.
1. Exfoliate
Exfoliating a day or two before your first sunbed session can help to remove dead skin cells, enabling an even tan and preventing patchiness. By using a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant consisting of ingredients such as, glycolic acid or salicylic acid you’re able to ensure your tan will be consistent across your face and body.
2. Apply Sunscreen
Regardless of whether you’re being exposed to the sun or just UV radiation from a sunbed, it is imperative to apply sunscreen to reduce your chances of developing conditions such as skin cancer, premature ageing, and sunburn.
Conversely, if you have been using sunbeds and are noticing premature signs of ageing, it might be worth considering having an anti-wrinkle injection. There are several anti wrinkle injections benefits beyond just improvements to your physical appearance, so this might be something worth seriously considering.
3. Remove Makeup
If you wear makeup, make sure to remove it completely before your sunbed session. Makeup residue can block UV rays from reaching your skin evenly, resulting in an uneven tan. Use a gentle makeup remover followed by a thorough cleanse with a mild facial cleanser.
4. Limit Sunbed Sessions
It is understandable to crave regular tanning treatment, particularly if you live in a cold climate. But remember the importance of moderation. Moderation is key when it comes to sunbed use. Limit your sessions to avoid overexposure to UV radiation. Gradually increase the duration and frequency of your sessions to allow your skin to acclimate.
Conclusion
There is plenty of evidence that highlights the risks of sunbed use. However, many of the things we enjoy in life come with an element of risk and if you’ve understood and researched what their potential future health implications are, our guide should be able to help you control or limit any side effects.
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