Using a tanning bed could end up giving you a nasty infection, doctors say
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Here in the Sunshine State, it’s not hard to find people with that sun-kissed look, but not everyone gets it from the Sun itself.
Instead of lounging at the beach or a local pool, some people choose to get their bronze skin from a tanning bed, getting those UV rays without having to spend hours outside.
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However, doctors say you should be aware of the risks. Typically, people get warned about the potential damage to your skin and possible cancer from a tanning bed’s UVA radiation, but you might catch something contagious if the bed you’re on isn’t cleaned right.
“If the incredibly increased risk of skin cancer and premature aging wasn’t enough to curb your use of tanning beds there have been studies that show that bacteria like staphylococcus, pseudomonas, and others like fecal bacteria have been found in tanning beds as well as viruses like Herpes (cold sore)and papilloma (warts),” said Dr. Rosalyn George, a board certified dermatologist in Wilmington, North Carolina.
According to the Mayo Clinic, bacteria like staphylococcus can cause skin infections like impetigo, which can manifest either is crust-covered sores on the face or pus-filled sores on the body.
Dr. Julie Karen, a dermatologic surgeon who teaches advanced surgery to dermatology residents at NYU, said antibiotic resistant strains of these bacteria, like MRSA, can also pose a threat.
While bacterial infections are curable, herpes is permanent and can spread to the body in the form of herpes gladiatorum. Experts say this version of herpes is typically caused by HSV-1, the same virus that causes cold sores to form around the mouth.
“If you are concerned about a potential infection it is important to consult with either your primary care physician or a board certified dermatologist as some of the infections can be dangerous,” George said.
These skin infections can be prevented by constant disinfection of tanning beds and other surfaces that people may touch. However, doctors say you cannot always guarantee this is done on a consistent basis.
“Avoiding tanning beds in the first place is the only way to truly avoid these risks,” Karen said. “I can not reasonably endorse any tanning bed use. However, if one is going to, wiping down all equipment with sani cloths or bringing your own, newly cleansed towel to lie on can reduce the risk of infection.”
George recommended using a self tanner as a safer alternative to using a tanning bed. Karen also advised exfoliating gently to make sure the self tanner applies evenly.
“The ONLY safe forms of a tan comes in a bottle – sunless tanners, such as foams, lotions,” Karen said. “Spray tans, if done by an expert and safely also represent a safer way to achieve the “glow” that so many people crave.
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