Tanning beds
Some people visit tanning salons as an alternative to natural sunlight. Tanning beds in commercial tanning salons emit mostly UVA light, not UVB. UVB is the type of light typically administered in phototherapy at a doctor's office. Both UVB and UVA are found in natural sunlight, but the beneficial effect for psoriasis is attributed primarily to UVB.
The American Academy of Dermatology, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have all discouraged the use of tanning beds and sun lamps, because the ultraviolet radiation from these devices can damage the skin, cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Most practicing dermatologists steer psoriasis patients away from tanning beds, as well. A recent study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that sunburns and tanning-lamp use during the adolescent and early adult years significantly increase an individual's susceptibility to skin cancer.
However, some dermatologists view tanning beds as a last resort that might help if patients do not have access to UVB and PUVA, and natural sunlight is also not an option. "Tanning beds are not a primary treatment, but they may be a good option for people who can't get access to UVB in a doctor's office," says Steve Feldman, M.D., Ph.D., professor of dermatology and pathology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, N.C.
Consult with your dermatologist before going to a tanning bed. If you already go to a tanning salon or feel you have no other option, keep these guidelines and precautions in mind:
- Do not take psoralens or other strong photosensitizing drugs in combination with tanning. Your doctor may be able to suggest certain topical products to complement tanning;
- Be aware that some drugs may increase your sensitivity to light and subsequently may cause you to burn;
- Tanning is not right for everybody; people who respond well to sun (type III skin or darker) would be more likely to benefit; light-skinned people might want to consider other treatment options;
- Be cautious of taking herbal medications or supplements, as some may also increase your sensitivity to light;
- Gradually build exposure times, starting at a time recommended by a doctor or the tanning bed operator;
- Risks of premature aging and skin cancer will increase with tanning bed use.
Be aware that tanning facilities may not measure or track the UV output of their bulbs on a regular basis–new bulbs can be inserted into the tanning bed without your knowledge, which can make the UV output more intense. These changes and lack of monitoring can cause a serious sunburn and subsequent flare of your disease.
Updated October 2005 |
