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Using sunscreen in the solarium—is it useful or unnecessary? We explain whether and when you should use sun protection when sunbathing under artificial light. You can also find out what risks you expose yourself to in the solarium.
Sunscreen in the solarium: There is no need
On hot summer days, sunscreen is important and recommended even in mild Germany. But in the solarium, it’s different.
- In fact, you do not need sunscreen in a solarium, as the UV dose is precisely defined in advance by the operators. Additional sun protection is therefore not only unnecessary, but also unsuitable, as it loses its protective effect due to the heat and UV radiation and can leave residues on the equipment.
- The UV radiation in solariums usually consists only of UVA. Although this causes less sunburn, the risk of skin cancer and skin aging is still significantly increased. From a health perspective, it is therefore advisable to seek advice from the staff at the tanning salon regarding your skin type in advance.
- If you do get sunburned, it is usually because you have visited the tanning salon too often and at too short intervals.
- In any case, it is advisable to apply a moisturizing skin care product after visiting the tanning salon to prevent dryness and irritation.
Safety in solariums: Understanding risks and protective measures
Even though sunscreen is not necessary in solariums, there are still risks associated with their use that should not be ignored.
- Before visiting a tanning bed, it is important to learn about the potential risks of UV radiation. Long-term effects such as premature skin aging, sunburn, eye damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer should be taken seriously.
- Be careful not to expose your skin to excessive UV radiation. Start with short visits and slowly increase the duration and intensity of the radiation. Excessive radiation can cause burns and increase the risk of skin cancer.
- The UV radiation in solariums can also damage your eyes. Always wear suitable protective goggles that have been specially designed for solarium visits. Normal sunglasses do not provide adequate protection against harmful UV rays.
- Everyone has a different skin sensitivity to UV radiation. People with fair skin, freckles, many moles, or a family history of skin cancer are at higher risk and should be especially careful.
- Professional associations such as the WHO or the Federal Office for Radiation Protection generally advise against visiting tanning beds. Young people and people with fair or sensitive skin should refrain from using tanning beds.
- Even if the recommended exposure times are observed, using tanning beds cannot be considered harmless to health. And even if you seek advice from the staff, this is no substitute for a medical skin screening.
