Minimizing Your Risk

There are many reasons to consider before choosing to use tanning lamps. For instance, people with fair skin or a history of sunburn are at greater risk for adverse effects. Moreover, some medications and cosmetics can make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation.

Consult with your health care professional about your personal risk factors before you decide whether to use tanning lamps.

If you decide to go ahead, the following steps will help minimize your risk:

• Read the warning labels on the sunlamp or tanning bed you are using and follow the directions carefully.

• If you go to a tanning salon, discuss your skin's sensitivity and your ability to tan with the salon operator. It should help the operator recommend the amount of time for your tanning session and how frequently you should tan.

• Do not exceed the recommended time per tanning session for your skin type.

• Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. It will give your skin a chance to repair damage from the UV radiation and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure.

• Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using.

• Be sure there is a physical barrier, such as a clear sheet of acrylic, between you and the tanning lamp. It will help prevent heat burns from the lamp.

• Report any adverse reaction, such as sunburn or itchiness, to the salon operator. See your health care professional in cases of severe sunburn.

You shouldn’t use tanning lamps more often than is necessary to maintain the color of tan you want.
* Health Canada advises tanning lamp users to limit their total number of tanning sessions per year. Bear in mind, the less ultraviolet radiation you get, the better it is for your health.