Artificial sun: what are the contraindications to the solarium

The fashion for a tanned body appeared only a hundred years ago, but still does not give up its positions. And despite the persistent warnings of dermatologists, everyone is in a hurry to spend more time on the beach, or even in the solarium …

The harm of excessive tanning has long been established, and doctors do not tire of reminding us of this. The fact is that the sun emits ultraviolet waves of different wavelengths. Some (UVB rays) contribute to tanning (by the way, the production of pigment is nothing more than a protective reaction of the skin to prevent burns), while others (UVA rays) penetrate into the deeper layers and, in addition to darkening the skin, can cause very unpleasant processes, including cancer. The artificial tanning procedure involves using all the same rays. Solariums are equipped with lamps that emit UVB and UVA rays, however, in order for the process to go faster and without burns, it is UVA rays that predominate in it. This effect allows you to get an almost perfect golden tan in just a few sessions. But what will we have in the future?

Consequences of sunburn

The most common problem that is discovered in the near future with regular visits to the solarium is premature skin aging. The artificial tanning procedure causes photodamage, which causes ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, in the solarium, it is also worth using protective creams and be sure to moisturize the skin after visiting it. With some diseases, a solarium is contraindicated, and it is important and necessary to know about this. These include thyroid problems, cardiovascular disease, some gynecological and skin diseases. If you want to visit a solarium, be sure to consult with a therapist first. The doctor will assess the situation and say whether the visit is possible or whether it would be right to refuse it. Regular visits to the solarium increase the risk of oncological diseases, in particular, an extremely dangerous form – melanoma. If there are many moles on your body, then it is better not to risk it. However, there are benefits to ultraviolet light as well. Under the influence of this light, vitamin D is produced in the body, and important metabolic processes take place. The main thing is to use this natural source within reasonable limits.Filter: How to choose a sunscreen that's safe for your skin and the environment

How to sunbathe in a solarium

1 With a very light, first skin phototype, visiting a solarium is contraindicated. The second, third and fourth phototypes should start the session from three minutes, gradually increasing the time. 2 It is not recommended to sunbathe several times a day or visit the solarium alternately with sunbathing. The break between sessions should be at least two days. 3 Before sunbathing in the solarium, you can not use cosmetics and perfumes. Any cosmetic procedure (peeling, epilation, cleaning) is also a contraindication. 4 Be sure to use protective stickers for the chest, a hair cap and special glasses. 5 If you are undergoing treatment and taking any medications, read the instructions for more details. Many drugs are contraindicated when visiting a solarium.