Tanning beds vs. spray tans: Which is better?

Bre (Spray tans)

The dangers of tanning beds are numerous and well-established. Sunless tanning with topical products is a safe alternative for achieving a tanned complexion without exposing yourself to severe, life-threatening health risks. Topical tanners are constantly being developed and improved as conscious consumers seek safer alternatives to dangerous bronzing methods like tanning beds.

Tanning beds use intense UV and UVA rays that penetrate deeper and are more harmful than the sun, causing several countries to outlaw them altogether. Their use significantly increases the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, especially in younger people, even with a single use. Plus, indoor tanning beds frequently cause sunburn and are known to damage DNA and collagen, worsening common signs of aging.

Tanning beds suppress the immune system the more they are used, making you more vulnerable to common illnesses and infections. Tanning beds are a carcinogen and a major contributing factor to higher melanoma rates in young women; they account for roughly half of US, Australian, and European cancer diagnoses annually. They've also been linked to additional cancers, including lymphoma, leukemia, and eye cancer, and increased risks of eye damage, cataracts, and vision loss.

The popularization of indoor tanning salons has created a serious public health issue. However, superior sunless tan solutions aren't just available nationwide—they're often cheaper, faster, and easier to customize and control. Sunless tanning makes more sense, as it removes the risk of sunburn and eliminates the need for exposure to cancer-causing rays.

'Look good, feel good' is more than a skin-deep sentiment when you opt for sunless tanning over harmful tanning beds. For countless seekers of a sunkissed glow, simply switching to sunless self-tanners can be a literal lifesaver.

Elisa (Tanning beds)

While tanning beds may have a bad reputation, they are, in actuality, good for people when used in moderation. Tanning beds can even have health benefits, including helping mood disorders, treating eczema and psoriasis, keeping your bones strong, and relieving stress. 

One problem with modern spray tanning is that it leaves uneven tones and doesn't produce long-lasting color. Spray tans can result in disastrous problems like patchy color, streaky results, flaky skin, and too much color, just to name a few. Spray tan application can leave stains on clothes and floors and even cause allergic skin reactions. If used safely and moderately, tanning beds help avoid those known spray tan problems. While some abuse tanning beds, many understand it can be used as a form of therapy, similar to light therapy. Medical studies even show how commercial tanning bed treatment is effective for psoriasis treatment. 

There are ways to tan safely, and tanning beds can provide much-needed vitamin D, essential to our health. Unfortunately, many worldwide lack adequate sunlight access throughout the year, and billions are vitamin D deficient. While the vitamin D provided by tanning beds does not amount to a person's daily needs, it can still act as an adequate supplement. 

Ultimately, many use tanning beds for vanity reasons, and that's okay, too. They often provide a fresh, natural, and appealing look as long as they are used safely. Many want a natural tan before an important date like a wedding or trip, and fake tans can look just that—fake.