One common method for getting a tanned appearance without going outside is using a tanning bed.
They are also utilized in phototherapy, which is used to treat diseases like psoriasis. Tanning bed use comes with some hazards and negative effects.
One negative impact is a skin condition known as “tanning bed rash.”
his rash may appear within the first few hours or days after using a tanning bed. It is bumpy, red, and itchy.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
✅ You can take some steps to prevent acquiring a tanning bed rash.
✅ Only use tanning beds in reputable, hygienic tanning salons.
✅ Wipe down the surfaces with a hypoallergenic wipe prior to use.
✅ Stay out of the sun for a day or two following a tanning session to avoid overexposure to UV rays if you want to avoid developing a rash.
✅ Completely avoid tanning beds if skin cancer runs in your family.
✅ Ask about the risks related to your skin type and be open with your doctor about your tanning routine.
What produces a rash from a tanning bed?
The causes of a tanning bed rash might vary.
Dry skin is the most obvious reason for a tanning bed rash. The top layer of moisture from your skin can be zapped by tanning lamps if you begin your session with dry skin. Your skin may protest by developing itchy, scaly spots as a result.
Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) is another factor. Your body is exposed to UV rays in tanning beds by use of heat lamps. However, the amount of ultraviolet light that these heat lamps emit may not always be able to be absorbed by your skin. In these circumstances, you’ll get a rash.
Miliaria, which develops when the flow of your sweat is disrupted, can also result from tanning. A rash develops when sweat gets caught in the spaces between the layers of your skin.
There are instances where an allergic reaction masquerades as a tanning bed rash. It’s common to get an adverse reaction to a tanning product. Lotions, oils, and other products for tanning might clog pores and trigger an allergic reaction in your skin. If mattresses aren’t cleaned thoroughly in between uses, product residue from one user’s use may end up on your skin and result in a rash.
Tanning bed rashes can also be brought on by the cleaning supplies used to clean tanning beds.
What signs indicate a tanning bed rash?
You can identify a rash caused by a tanning bed by some typical signs. They consist of swollen or itchy areas of your skin and elevated white or red pimples.
When should I go and visit a doctor?
Keep a watchful eye on any rash you get after utilizing a tanning bed. You should consult a dermatologist or doctor if the rash persists for more than five days to determine whether there are any further causes.
Over-scratching a tanning bed rash can damage the top layer of skin and result in an infection. Seek immediate medical assistance if you observe colored pus flowing from the rash’s location or if the rash is the cause of a fever.
Getting rid of a tanning bed rash
Most tanning bed rashes disappear after a few days. The discomfort and itching from the rash might be distracting in the interim. To check if your symptoms improve, try out some at-home remedies first:
- Limit your time in the sun. If you must go outside while the rash is still present, use sunscreen with an SPF greater than 30. Wear comfortable clothing made of natural fibers to conceal your rash.
- Apply a topical cream or aloe vera. The redness and itching associated with your rash may be relieved by applying pure aloe vera gel to it. If you think an allergic reaction is the cause of your rash, an antihistamine cream can be helpful. A lotion containing 1% hydrocortisone may help with swelling, itching, and inflammatory symptoms.
- Soak in a hot bath. You can also manage itching by taking a lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal.
Your doctor could advise a stronger antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream if home therapies are unsuccessful.
What are the chances of getting a tanning bed rash?
Although a tanning bed rash can be irritating, it shouldn’t stay very long. Your rash should go away within 24 to 48 hours if you can prevent more UV exposure after it begins. The duration of your rash might be prolonged by additional sun exposure.