Belladerm Blog

Top 5 Reason to Avoid Tanning Beds

Belladerm • June 4, 2014

Summer is finally here and many of us Midwesterners are anxious to spend as much time as possible basking in the cherished summer sun. After all, we deserve it with the brutal winter we’ve had, right? Some people may be thinking, I am not nearly tan enough for bathing suit season, maybe now is a good time to go to the tanning bed, Right? Wrong! There is never a good time to go to the tanning bed!


Here are 5 top reasons why you should avoid tanning beds at ALL costs:


1. Your risk of melanoma increases by 75 percent when you use tanning beds before the age of 35.
2. Last year, the International Agency for Research on Cancer shifted indoor tanning devices to the highest cancer risk category: “carcinogenic to humans.” (They were formerly classified as “probably carcinogenic to humans.”)
3. Tanning can be addictive. For some people, UV radiation can have a drug like effect; they feel dependent on it and can experience withdrawal symptoms, says David Fisher, M.D., Ph.D.
4. Not only are tanning-bed users more vulnerable to melanoma, they’re also 2½ times more likely to be diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma and 1½ times more susceptible to basal cell carcinoma.
5. If you want to stop or prevent premature aging, steer clear of tanning beds. Tanning beds cause noticeably aging skin, such as wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Tanning can also create a “Leathery look to the skin which can add years to a person’s appearance.


A Tan may look Good but is it Good for you? More Dangers of Indoor Tanning.
Indoor tanning exposes users to two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays, UV-A and UV-B, which damage the skin and can lead to cancer. Indoor tanning is particularly dangerous for younger users; people who begin indoor tanning during adolescence or early adulthood have a higher risk of getting melanoma, likely because of increased lifetime UV exposure. In fact, every time you tan you increase your risk of getting melanoma.
Sunburns and tans are both dangerous because they cause DNA damage to our skin. Your risk of developing melanoma increases after just one blistering sunburn.


Squamous cell cancer increases based on your lifetime exposure to UV rays. Basal cell carcinoma risk increases based on the combination of intense sun exposure and lifetime exposure to UV radiation. UV radiation comes from the sun…and from tanning beds.


You cannot get a “Safe Tan” from a Tanning Bed.
The FDA and the CDC both suggest that you avoid using tanning beds in order to prevent developing skin cancer. There really is no such thing as a safe tan from a tanning bed. In addition to the risk of developing skin cancer, exposure to UV rays causes your skin to age prematurely.
It’s time we rethink our position on the standards of beauty. A Tan really is not beautiful; it is a walking advertisement for skin cancer.


This might ring a bell: “You only get the healthy rays in tanning beds,” or “Tanning beds give you a ‘base tan’ to keep you from burning.” The tanning-salon industry wooed many of us with these marketing claims when UVA rays — the ones tanning machines mainly use — were thought to be safe and only UVB rays from the sun were believed to be harmful.


Since then, we’ve grown wiser. Definitive research has now proven that both UVA and UVB rays can cause skin cancer. (UVA rays have been specifically linked to melanoma.) Still, about 30 million people go tanning every year, about 70 percent of whom are young women. Tanning salons outnumber even Starbucks and McDonalds in some of the largest U.S. cities, according to a San Diego State University study.
Still don’t want to kick the habit? Here’s why you must kiss the bed good-bye!


Help educate our youth about the Dangers of Tanning Beds!
Tanning Beds and Teens. Tanning beds are not safe. Both UVA and UVB rays cause cancer. Tanning beds often exceed “safe” UV limits, despite the claims of the salon. Teens are at special risk because their bodies are undergoing such accelerated growth rates that their cells are more prone to the damage of the UV radiation. By routinely tanning their skin starting at a young age, teens put themselves at greater lifetime risk of developing skin cancer. Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to get sunburn in a tanning bed, and your eyes are at an increased risk of developing cataracts and corneal burns.


UV Radiation
UV radiation comes from the sun and from tanning beds. UV radiation damages our skin and adversely affects our immune system. As previously mentioned, one blistering sunburn increases your risk of developing melanoma, which is a very dangerous and lethal skin cancer. You are also 2.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma and 1.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell.


Statistics
In the United States, indoor tanning is thought to cause about 419,000 cases of skin cancer every year. For comparison, smoking is thought to cause about 226,000 cases of lung cancer every year.


According to the 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, the following proportions of youth report indoor tanning—
• 13% of all high school students.
• 21% of high school girls.
• 32% of girls in the 12th grade.
• 29% of white high school girls.


According to the 2010 National Health Interview Survey, indoor tanners tended to be young, non-Hispanic white women.
• 32% of non-Hispanic white women aged 18–21 years reported indoor tanning. Those who reported indoor tanning device use reported an average of 28 sessions in the past year.


• Among non-Hispanic white adults who used an indoor tanning device in the past year, 58% of women and 40% of men used one 10 times or more in the past year.


• Non-Hispanic white women between the ages of 18 and 21 years residing in the Midwest (44%) and non-Hispanic white women between the ages of 22 and 25 old in the South (36%) were most likely to use indoor tanning devices.



http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/indoor_tanning.htm
http://www.doctoroz.com/blog/susan-evans-md/dangers-tanning-beds
http://www.webmd.com/beauty/sun/5-scary-facts-about-tanning-beds

You, Only Better™

Belladerm MedSpaTM is Maple Grove’s state-of-the art medical spa, offering today’s most advanced and effective procedures to the Twin Cities area.

Connect with us

Subscribe via Email

Share

Check Out our Other Posts

December 1, 2025
If you have been researching treatments for sun damage, uneven tone, or redness, you have likely come across BBL HEROIC™, the newest generation of BroadBand Light by Sciton . This advanced light-based treatment is one of the most effective ways to reverse visible signs of aging and improve skin clarity with minimal downtime. December is an ideal time to begin BBL HEROIC™ in Minnesota because sun exposure is lower and patients are ready to refresh their skin for the winter season. This guide explains exactly what to expect during your first BBL HEROIC™ photofacial so you feel prepared, informed, and confident before your appointment at Belladerm MedSpa. What BBL HEROIC™ Treats BBL HEROIC™ (High Energy Rapid Output and Intense Cooling) is known for its ability to dramatically improve discoloration and overall skin tone. It is commonly recommended for patients seeking treatment for: Sun damage and brown spots Freckles and hyperpigmentation Redness and rosacea Broken capillaries Dull or uneven skin tone Rough texture and visible aging Because BBL HEROIC™ delivers quick, consistent, high-energy pulses of light, patients often see faster and more noticeable results than with traditional BBL. What BBL HEROIC™ Feels Like A common question from first-time patients is what BBL HEROIC™ feels like. The treatment is quick and very tolerable for most individuals. Here is what you can expect: Protective eye shields will be placed before the treatment begins. A cooling gel is applied to the skin to enhance comfort and ensure smooth movement of the handpiece. Each pulse feels like a warm snap or quick flick of heat combined with a flash of bright light. The advanced cooling built into the HEROIC™ platform makes the treatment more comfortable than traditional IPL or older BBL devices. Most full-face BBL HEROIC™ treatments take only 30 minutes. Many patients add the neck, chest, or hands for more comprehensive results. Timeline of BBL HEROIC™ Results Understanding the treatment timeline helps set clear expectations for first-time patients. Immediately after treatment: Skin may look pink or slightly flushed. Brown pigment will darken temporarily. This is normal and expected. Days 2 to 5: Brown spots begin to look like small, dark speckles (commonly called “peppering”). These gradually rise to the skin’s surface and naturally slough off. Redness and small blood vessels begin to fade. One to two weeks after treatment: Skin tone appears more even and bright. Texture improves, and makeup applies more smoothly. Overall clarity continues to improve. Multiple sessions: While many patients see visible improvement after one treatment, a series of three to six BBL HEROIC™ sessions produces the most transformative results, especially for sun damage, rosacea, and persistent pigment. BBL HEROIC™ Aftercare Proper aftercare is essential to protect your results and prevent new pigmentation from forming. Recommended aftercare: Use gentle skincare for the first 48 hours. Keep the skin hydrated. Apply sunscreen daily. Allow darkened pigment to naturally flake off without picking or exfoliating. What to avoid: Intense exercise or high heat for 24 hours. Direct sun exposure, even in winter. Scrubbing or exfoliating the treated area. Normal Side Effects After BBL HEROIC™ It is normal to experience mild, temporary side effects immediately after treatment, including: Pinkness or slight redness Warmth or a mild sunburn-like sensation Darkening of brown spots Light swelling in sensitive areas Most patients return to normal daily activities the same day. Begin Your BBL HEROIC™ Journey at Belladerm MedSpa BBL HEROIC™ is one of the most powerful and reliable treatments for reversing sun damage, evening out skin tone, and restoring natural radiance. If you are ready to improve clarity, reduce redness, or correct pigmentation, our experienced providers are here to create a customized treatment plan based on your goals. Schedule a complimentary consultation today!
November 1, 2025
The holidays are right around the corner, and as the weather cools, it’s the perfect time to focus on reversing the effects of summer sun. Even if you were diligent with SPF, months of UV exposure can leave behind subtle signs of damage, such as uneven tone, rough texture, and fine lines that appear prematurely. Enter MOXI™ by Sciton , the newest laser treatment at Belladerm MedSpa, designed to gently refresh and revitalize your skin, just in time for holiday season glow. Meet MOXI: The Gentle Laser for Fresh, Radiant Skin MOXI is Sciton’s latest innovation for skin rejuvenation and prevention. Often called the “prejuvenation” laser, MOXI delivers fractionated non-ablative laser energy to the skin—stimulating new collagen production, evening tone, and improving texture without the downtime of more aggressive treatments. In short, it’s your go-to treatment for maintaining youthful, healthy skin year-round. Whether you’re a first-time laser patient or a seasoned skincare pro, MOXI fits seamlessly into any skin routine. Why Now Is the Perfect Time for MOXI Fall and winter are known as laser season for a reason. With less sun exposure and cooler weather, it’s easier to protect your skin during recovery. That makes November the ideal time to repair summer’s damage before the busy holiday season begins. After a few days of mild redness and a light “sandpaper” feel, you’ll reveal brighter, smoother, more even skin—perfect timing for your next family gathering or holiday event. What MOXI Treats MOXI targets the visible effects of sun exposure and early signs of aging, including: Uneven skin tone and texture Pigmentation and sunspots Fine lines and dullness Roughness and pore size It’s also safe for all skin types and can be used on the face, neck, chest, and hands—anywhere that needs a little post-summer reset. The MOXI Experience A typical MOXI session takes about 60 minutes. You’ll start with a topical numbing cream for comfort, followed by the treatment itself. Most patients describe the sensation as warm and tingly. Afterward, your skin may appear pink for a day or two, followed by light flaking as the old, damaged skin cells make way for fresh, healthy ones. There’s minimal downtime—you can wear makeup the next day and return to your regular routine almost immediately. For best results, we often recommend a series of three to four treatments spaced about a month apart. Think of it as investing in long-term skin health and luminosity. Pairing MOXI with Other Treatments Want to take your results to the next level? MOXI pairs beautifully with other rejuvenating treatments like BBL HERO® , creating a powerful duo that targets both surface pigment and deeper skin tone. Together, they deliver a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion that truly glows. Your Holiday-Ready Skin Starts Here If you’ve been thinking about giving your skin a refresh before the holidays, MOXI is a perfect choice. It’s quick, comfortable, and delivers noticeable results with minimal disruption to your schedule.  Book your Complimentary Laser Consultation at Belladerm MedSpa and step into the season with renewed confidence and radiant, camera-ready skin.
By Belladerm October 1, 2025
As the seasons change, so does our skin’s needs. Fall and winter can bring challenges like dry air, cold winds, and the temptation to skip regular skincare routines. Skincare maintenance during the fall & winter is actually the perfect time to focus on restoring your skin’s natural glow, keeping it hydrated, and treating it to some extra TLC. Let’s dive into how to adjust your skincare routine for the fall and winter season—and why now is the ideal time for some rejuvenating treatments. Skincare Adjustments for Fall & Winter The transition from warm summer months to cooler fall and winter temperatures can leave your skin feeling dry, tight, and irritated. The air becomes drier, and indoor heating can strip away essential moisture. Here’s how to adjust your routine for these seasonal changes: Switch to a Hydrating Moisturizer: Look for a thicker, richer moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected. Add Hydrating Serums: Serums like those with vitamin C or peptides can help your skin retain moisture and combat any winter dullness. Don’t Forget About Your Lips: With the colder air, chapped lips are a common issue. Revision’s Youthful Lip Replenisher will do wonders. Facial Treatments to Boost Winter Skin Health Cold weather doesn’t mean your skincare should take a break—now is the perfect time to treat yourself to a HydraFacial or Microneedling. These services help restore skin hydration, promote healing, and treat any skin concerns before they become major issues. HydraFacial: A HydraFacial is a great option for a deep cleanse and hydration boost. This treatment uses patented vortex technology to remove dead skin cells while infusing hydrating serums back into your skin. It’s perfect for combating dry skin and leaving you with a fresh, glowing complexion. Microneedling: Need a treatment that tackles both fine lines and overall skin texture? Microneedling helps promote collagen production and improves skin’s overall look and feel. It’s a fantastic treatment to prepare your skin for the harsh winter elements. Sun Protection: Yes, Even in Fall & Winter! It might be tempting to put your sunscreen away with your summer wardrobe, but the sun’s rays are still strong during the fall and winter months. It’s important to continue applying sunscreen daily—even when it’s cloudy or you’re spending more time indoors. UV rays can penetrate through windows and cause skin damage, so keep your skin protected with a broad-spectrum SPF . Ready to Fall in Love with Your Skin Again? Your skin deserves some extra care this fall and winter. At Belladerm MedSpa, we’re here to help you feel confident and glowing no matter the season. Book your consultation today and start your seasonal skincare routine with our professional treatments and skincare products. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!
Show More