It is a fact that exposing the skin to the sun's rays for long hours does more harm than good. The sun's ultra violet rays cause skin cancer apart from minor irritants like sunburns.

The tanning beds seem to be a solution to this problem, as people can get tanned without any side effects. But the origin of tanning beds is rooted in medicine. In the early twentieth century it was developed, to see if increased sunlight combats calcium deficiency.

But this is a misconception. Tanning beds also expose people to health hazards. They give off long wave ultra violet rays which are more harmful than short wave ultra violet rays.

Tanning beds have components that require regular maintenance. Some of the important components are tanning bed bulbs, internal fans, remote cable assembly, and lamp holder.

Tanning beds are used both in home and tanning salons. Tanning beds in salons are clamshell shaped. Tanning salons have drawn a lot of flak because of health concerns. Prior appointment is needed to tan in a salon. Home tanning beds are convenient and can be used any time of the day or night.

These beds are expensive. Many manufacturers offer warranties for more than a year and detailed literature about the product. Tanning beds are found all over the world.

It is advisable to use tanning beds with caution. Long exposure can cause burns. Pregnant women should not use these beds. The basic concern about over usage of these beds is related to cancer as basil cell sarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and the most dangerous melanoma can occur. Skin cancer is the most serious side effect, but there are other side effects also. Apart from burning the skin, it causes the skin to become wrinkled and over exposure results in cataract. This in turn gives an old look.

Tanning beds and tanning salons are now big business. Manufacturers and salon owners paint a rosy picture, but people should be told about the harmful side as well. Only a very judicious use of these beds is recommended. Tanning might bring a low in looks, but risking health is also foolhardy.