The modern advent of tanning beds meant that a healthy, glowing tan was no longer relegated exclusively to the summer. Suddenly a year long tan was possible - and achievable. Tanning beds delivered the positive feelings of the natural sun regardless of the weather. And for a small fee, you could spend up to fifteen glorious minutes warm and toasty under the glow of the lights - and leave feeling healthy and vibrant.

When we expose ourselves to natural sunlight, we expose ourselves to a combination of ultraviolet light known as UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays - the longer wavelengths of the sunlight - reach our deepest layers of skin; UVB rays - the shorter wavelengths - affect our top layer of skin. Tanning beds - as an alternative - put out a lesser combination of UVA and UVB rays - increasing the opportunity for tanning while minimizing exposure to dangerous rays.

The danger comes from overexposure to both UVA and UVB rays - although UVB rays are considered infinitely more dangerous. Tanning beds offer 40% less exposure to UVB rays. However, this does not in any way mean that you are completely protected. If you absolutely must tan - if you are fair skinned it is recommended that you not tan at all - it is important to do so responsibly. In order to minimize your risk of sun damage - the early aging of skin, including wrinkling, and various skin cancers, including melanoma - it is absolutely essential to use lotions that offer your skin at least partial protection against UV rays.

The dangers being said, the joys of tanning beds are self-evident. Tanning beds offer convenience - a way to achieve the glow and vitality of summer all year long. And a way to achieve that look in virtually half the time it takes to tan outdoors. Tanning beds can deliver the warmth and good feelings of a summer day even in the cold of winter; and, if nothing else, allow you a few minutes of solitary relaxation for a heavenly fifteen minutes.