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The skin is the largest multi functional organ of the body and constantly regenerates itself. Every four weeks a new outer skin is developed after the cells have been forced outward and hardened on the surface where eventually they are shed.
The skin has three main layers:- Epidermis (Top outer skin)
- Corium (Leather skin)
- Subcutis (True skin)
Whether indoors or outdoors, tanning works in the same way by UV light penetrating the skin causing different reactions. UVA rays are known to be the tanning rays and UVB the burning rays. UVB carries more energy than UVA, so exposure to UVB is more likely to cause sunburn.
UV rays are invisible so people outside in the sunlight are often unaware that they are being exposed to high levels of UVB. Warnings of sunburn often come too late. Over exposure and sunburn can lead to skin damage.
The process of indoor tanning is balanced differently, emitting more UVA and much less UVB than the sun. No one controls the sun.
Whenever the skin is exposed to UVB light, cells in the deeper dermis layer of the skin called melanocytes produce an increased amount of the tanning pigment called melanin. Melanin is then transferred to the epidermis where UVA has the effect of oxidising it and turning the skin brown.
A sunbed is designed to provide a gradual tanning programme without burning and accommodating different skin types.
Positive effects
UV light is vital for the production of Vitamin D. It is now being recognised that there are many health benefits associated with UV tanning.
Bones
Vitamin D regulates the absorption and use of calcium and phosphorous. These minerals are vital for growth and the development and hardening of bones and teeth.
Immune System
Parts of the bone marrow where immune cells are made respond to Vitamin D, which is also thought to play a role in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.
Hormones
By playing a role in the secretion of insulin by the pancreas, Vitamin D helps in the regulation of blood sugar.
Nervous System
Vitamin D ensures the functioning of healthy nerves and muscles by regulating calcium levels in the blood, vital for nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction. UVB radiation is associated with reduced risk of cancer of the breast, colon, ovary and prostate as well as non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
