Spray Tans or Tanning Beds? The Health Concerns Regarding Tanning Methods

A tanning bed ready for use by the next customer. Tanning beds are a method that often requires booking an appointment in advance. Photo Credits: Shutterstock

Jillian Studebaker, Staff Writer for The Powderhorn

In the middle of winter, there is not really an option to go outside and tan. Clouds often hang over the sky, blocking the sun, preventing the warmth from reaching us on the ground. Many people often get spray tans and go to tanning beds so they can still get the summer look they want all year long..

“I think spray tans, specifically, are a great way to enhance your physical features for big events like Homecoming or Prom,” said Jiada Ballard, a senior. “Or even during the winter when you're pale.”

Spray tans and tanning beds are a great physical enhancement that is not permanent and can be a cheaper option for many people in the colder months. However, there is the issue of upkeep, as many people book once a month or even more than that, since spray tans aren't something you can do yourself very easily. Along with how expensive it is, there are many health-related worries from users that come along with spray tanning or tanning beds.

“I don’t have many health concerns regarding spray tans,” said Ballard. “But with tanning beds the blue lights and purple lights that are in there have studies that have proven them to cause cancer. I think I’d rather do spray tanning over tanning beds because I don’t want cancer.”

Overall, spray tans are ultimately the better option out of the two health-wise. It gives young girls a slightly less damaging option to get the look that they want, though some people still worry about the hidden health concerns regarding spray tans, such as drying out your skin.

“I do try to keep it moisturized and stuff,” said freshman Allie Yates. “I don’t want my skin to age a whole lot and make me look older than I am at a young age.”

Many people are hesitant to use any sort of tanning methods— even sometimes real tanning— because of the looming possibility of cancer. Due to the concern of tanning methods causing cancer, some students even use a slightly safer and less damaging product called tanning foam.

“I usually use tanning foam once or twice a week,” said sophomore Saoirse Fulton. “Especially in the winter time.”

Tanning foam is an easier and less harmful method of fake tan. It provides a more temporary tan appearance to your skin and you can use it multiple times a week rather than having to book an appointment for once a month. 

“Tanning beds are really bad for your skin and can give you cancer,” said Fulton. “That’s why I choose to use tanning foam.”

Even though students feel like foam options might be better than tanning beds or spray tans, there are still some minor concerns around it.

“Sometimes the foam can give you allergies depending on your skin type,” said Fulton. 

Overall, whether it comes to using spray tans, tanning beds or even tanning foam, it is always good to look into the health concerns regarding them. Keeping your skin healthy is important in the long run. It is a good idea to keep in mind the damage that could be inflicted upon your skin when using these products.