Who knew that tanning bed rash could be so painful? It can make it difficult to sleep, and in some cases the pain is so bad you might even need to take time off work.
If you notice a change in your skin after using the tanning bed, don’t wait until it gets worse before trying to get rid of it. This blog post will help you learn about this common side effect of indoor tanning and what you can do to prevent or treat it.
What Is A Tanning Bed Rash?
A tanning bed rash is a skin irritation that can be caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation. This type of rash is also known as erythema ab igne, which is Latin for “fire red.” It typically appears as a series of patches on the skin that are warm to the touch and may be itchy or painful.
Before we look at the causes of this kind of dermatitis, it is important to understand what a UV light source is and how it works.
UV (short for ultraviolet) radiation comes from sunlight or tanning beds, and can lead to skin cancer and premature aging if exposed in large amounts over the course of many years. The UV spectrum runs from 100 to 400 nm, and comprises wavelengths shorter than visible light. There are three types of UV rays: UVA rays (longer waves), UVB rays (medium waves) and UVC rays (shorter waves).
UVA is the most abundant type of UV ray by far. It’s also the type that leads to melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. UVA rays pass through ozone more easily than UVB and UVC rays, but they do not cause reddening or sunburn like UVB rays do.
90% of a person’s total lifetime sun exposure is UVA radiation.
This means that the majority of the time, when someone is in a tanning bed, they are being exposed to UVA radiation.
It’s important to note that UVC rays are absorbed by ozone and do not reach the Earth’s surface. These types of UV rays are used in water purification plants for killing microorganisms.
UVC rays have more energy than either UVB or UVA rays, so they can kill microorganisms effectively without causing damage to human tissue.
UVB penetrates only into the epidermis of skin while UVA penetrates into both the epidermis and dermis, hence its association with aging effects on skin.
When UV rays come into contact with human skin, they damage the DNA of cells. The genetic material becomes mutated, leading to disordered cell growth and eventually cancer.
As one might guess, it is important to minimize exposure to UV light overall in order to prevent or lessen the likelihood of developing melanoma or other kinds of skin cancer.
Causes Of Tanning Bed Rash
- Overexposure To UV Light Can Lead To Tanning Bed Rash
As with all rashes, the causes of tanning bed rash are not always known. However, when it occurs in individuals who use tanning beds often, one possible cause is overexposure to ultraviolet light.
Ultraviolet rays can damage skin cells and cause them to grow abnormally, making the skin unable to protect itself against infection. When this happens, the result can be a painful, itchy rash that may come and go over a period of a few days or weeks.
This kind of dermatitis is more common in people whose bodies have not adjusted to this level of exposure to UV light on the skin. The first time someone goes into a tanning bed, he or she may experience a more severe reaction. However, the body will gradually become accustomed to this exposure and more resistant to it as time goes on.
- Tanning Bed Rash Is More Likely To Occur In People With Certain Skin Conditions
In some cases, the causes of tanning bed rash can be much more complex. For example, people with psoriasis and other skin conditions may find that exposure to ultraviolet light in a tanning bed worsens their symptoms. Doctors recommend avoiding this kind of exposure to UV light for people who already have psoriasis, vitiligo or other skin conditions.
Tanning Bed Rash Is Not Only Skin Deep
In the vast majority of cases, tanning bed rash is not a serious medical problem and can be easily treated by a dermatologist using over-the-counter medications.
However, it is important to remember that skin damage from overexposure to ultraviolet light can be cumulative. If you choose to use tanning beds, make sure not to overdo it and remember to wear proper protection such as goggles when in the beds.
Regular exposure can also lead to eye damage resulting in vision problems which could make driving unsafe. Tanning bed rash isn’t just skin deep.
Although rare, serious complications of tanning bed rash can occur and you should visit a doctor right away if you notice unusual symptoms such as:
- inflammation of the lymph nodes
- swelling in the neck, armpits or groin pain
- fatigue
- fever
- chills
- aches and pains
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- weight loss
- appetite loss
- rash that does not fade when scratched
Who Is At Risk For Tanning Bed Rash?
Anyone who uses a tanning bed is at risk for developing a skin rash. However, some people are more likely to get it than others. For instance:
- If you have fair skin that burns easily when exposed to the sun or indoor tanning beds, you’re in danger of getting this type of rash and should take steps to avoid it (more on how you can prevent a tanning bed rash later).
- If you have an autoimmune disease or other conditions that make your skin more sensitive, such as lupus erythematosus and scleroderma, you’re also at greater risk for developing a tanning bed rash. You should always talk to your doctor before using a tanning salon or bed.
- If you’re taking certain medications, such as isotretinoin (a form of vitamin A used to treat acne), be aware that it can cause skin irritation when exposed to UV radiation and tanning beds in particular. You should also check with your doctor before using a tanning salon or bed while on these types of medication.
How To Prevent Tanning Bed Rash?
The best way to avoid a tanning bed rash is by simply not using the beds or sunlamps. However, if you must use them because of your skin care needs (like getting rid of acne), there are some other things you can do:
- Always wear protective eyewear when using a tanning bed or sunlamp. You can also use visors, goggles or hats to protect your face and head from harmful UV rays.
- Make sure you always wear protective eyewear when using the beds at indoor salons since they don’t offer other kinds of protection. Always wear eye-catching glasses so salon employees will be sure to remind you.
- Stay in the shade when outdoors, especially during peak hours between 11 a.m. and noon when UV radiation is strongest.
- Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you’re going to be outside, even on cloudy days. Sunscreen should be applied every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or perspiring.
- Apply sunscreen to any areas of the body that are exposed, including your face and neck (you’ll need more than usual since tanning beds can make you burn faster).
If You Think You Have A Tanning Bed Rash…
Since a tanning bed rash is usually caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation, the best way to treat it is by limiting your exposure.
- If you notice a change in your skin after using the tanning bed, or if you have severe pain especially when sleeping at night, talk to your doctor right away. He or she can help determine what type of rash you have and might prescribe medication that will speed up healing.
- If your rash doesn’t go away after a few days, see your doctor again so he or she can determine what’s causing it and take steps to treat the problem before it worsens. In addition, you should always check in with your healthcare provider when you start getting any rashes on your skin especially if they show up after using a tanning bed or sunlamp.
Tanning Bed Rash: Treatment & Home Remedies
To treat your rash, try taking steps like these:
- Keep the affected area clean and dry by gently patting it with a towel (don’t rub). You can use body lotion to prevent additional irritation from occurring.
- Apply cool compresses to the rash for temporary relief from itching and burning sensations.
- Take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce inflammation and pain.
If you have any questions about tanning bed rash, please don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or dermatologist. They can help you determine if a tanning bed rash is what’s causing your symptoms and, if so, give you the best treatment options for this type of skin condition.
Make use of natural treatments that you might have available:
- Aloe Vera – Apply aloe vera on the rash to help soothe and cool it.
- Lavender Oil – Rub a little lavender oil onto your skin where you have rashes, this will help with inflammation and pain.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Mix apple cider vinegar into a bath water mix, then soak in it for 20 minutes at a time. This will help clear up the rash and also soothe your skin.
- Proper Diet – Make sure to eat a healthy diet, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as proteins like fish or lean meats. Take zinc supplements if you can’t get enough from food sources. Zinc helps with healing rashes faster because it boosts the immune system.
- Oatmeal – Grind up some oatmeal and mix it with water to make a paste. Apply this to your skin and let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing off. This will help soothe the rash as well as moisturize your skin.
- Olive Oil – Olive oil is high in vitamin E, which will help moisturize your skin and keep it soft.
- Baking soda – Mix baking soda with a little bit of water, then apply to the affected area. This will help soothe and dry up your rash faster.
- Tea Tree Oil – Apply tea tree oil directly onto your skin where you have rashes (make sure it doesn’t get in your eyes or mouth). You can also add about 20 drops of tea tree oil to a bathtub full of water and soak in it. Tea tree oil is an anti-inflammatory and will help reduce swelling and redness.
- Sunscreen – Make sure to always use sunscreen when going outside, especially if you’re going to be using a tanning bed or sunlamp. Wear clothing that covers your skin as much as possible to protect it from the sun.
- Yogurt – Apply yogurt to the rash and let it sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing off. This will help soothe your skin and also add moisture.
- Cucumber – Apply cucumber slices to your skin for 20 minutes at a time. Cucumber is an anti-inflammatory and will help reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with the rash.
- Potato – Cut a raw potato into thin slices, then apply to the rash. Let it sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing off. Potatoes have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help ease your symptoms.
- Banana – Apply banana peel to the rash and let it sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing off. The enzymes in banana peel can help soothe your skin and reduce inflammation.
- Egg Whites – Apply egg whites to the rash and let it sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing off. This will dry out and tighten up your rash, which should make it go away faster (and also prevent more from forming).
FAQs
Q: What should I do if my tanning bed rash doesn’t go away?
A: If your tanning bed rash persists or gets worse, you should see a doctor or dermatologist for further treatment. They might prescribe medications or other treatments to help clear up the rash and get you feeling better faster.
Q: Can tanning cause other skin conditions?
A: Yes, tanning can cause other skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and melanoma. It’s important to be aware of the risks associated with tanning and to take precautions to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Q: Is a tanning bed rash contagious?
A: No, a tanning bed rash is not contagious. Most tanning bed rashes are just a reaction to the oils or lotions that you use before going in the tanning bed, so these rashes aren’t caused by bacteria and they won’t spread from person to person.
Q: How dangerous is a tanning bed rash?
A: A severe sunburn can put your body into shock, so it’s important to keep an eye on your symptoms and take care of the rash as soon as possible. If you start showing signs of shock, such as nausea or chills, get medical help right away because this could be a sign that your body is having trouble fighting off infection.
Q: What are tanning bed rashes made of?
A: A tanning bed rash is made up of inflamed skin cells that have been damaged by ultraviolet light. The most common cause of a tanning bed rash is using lotions or oils before going in the tanning bed, so make sure to only use these products if you are not planning on going into a tanning booth for at least 24 hours.
Q: What are the symptoms of a tanning bed rash?
A: The most common symptoms of a tanning bed rash or redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area. You might also notice that the rash is itchy or feels hot to the touch. If you have any of these symptoms, make sure to take care of the rash as soon as possible by cooling the area with water and applying soothing products like cucumber, tea tree oil, aloe vera gel, or yogurt.
Q: What is the worst thing for a tanning bed rash?
A: The worst thing you can do for your tanning bed rash is to scratch it, because this could cause infection and make the symptoms worse. Make sure to not touch your skin if it starts feeling hot or itching, since that might be a sign of a rash forming.
Q: What are the long-term effects of a tanning bed rash?
A: A severe sunburn can put your body into shock, so it’s important to keep an eye on your symptoms and take care of the rash as soon as possible. If you start showing signs of shock, such as nausea or chills, get medical help right away because this could be a sign that your body is having trouble fighting off infection.
Q: Is tanning bed rash dangerous?
A: No, tanning bed rash isn’t dangerous and most of them are just a reaction to the oils or lotions you use before going in the tanning bed so they are not contagious. However, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is best to contact a doctor or dermatologist immediately who might prescribe medications or other treatments to help clear up the rash and get you feeling better faster.
Q: How can I prevent tanning bed rashes?
A: The easiest way to prevent tanning bed rashes is to not use lotions or oils before going in the tanning bed, and make sure you wait at least 24 hours after using these products before using a tanning booth. You can also wear sunscreen to help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Q: What are some other names for tanning bed rash?
A: Other names for tanning bed rash include sunburn, ultraviolet light dermatitis, and photodermatitis.
Q: What is the difference between a sunburn and a tanning bed rash?
A: A sunburn is caused by overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays, while a tanning bed rash is usually caused by using lotions or oils before going in the tanning bed. Sunburns are also more likely to cause blisters and peeling skin, while a tanning bed rash is more likely to cause swelling, pain, and redness.
Therefore…
A tanning bed rash is a common reaction to the oils or lotions you use before going in the tanning bed, and they are not contagious. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is best to contact a doctor or dermatologist immediately who might prescribe medications or other treatments to help clear up the rash and get you feeling better faster.
