A tanning bed is a contraption that is primarily used for indoor tanning, where exposure to UV rays is made possible by artificial means in a controlled atmosphere. The only advantage of tanning is that it produces a pigment called melanin. Melanin protects the skin from ultraviolet rays, i.e., from burning. Exposure to ultraviolet rays would stimulate the production of vitamin D. Vitamin D helps in the unnecessary growth of cells through a process called apoptosis. Recent studies indicate that exposure to UV light reduces the chances of getting carcinoma of the lymph nodes; however, exposure to UV light is considered to be the major cause of malignant melanoma, usually of the skin.

Researches show that even short-term use of tanning booths or beds can cause molecular and genetic damage, premature aging of the skin, and skin cancer. UV radiation exposure could also cause other tegument changes such as changes in the thickness and texture of the cutis, wrinkles, dry skin, weakening of connective tissues, age spots, etc. Your eyes are likely to be exposed to radiation levels 100 times more than that in natural sunlight and this could very well lead to corneal burns, retinal damage, and cataract. Keeping the eyes closed or wearing sunglasses could not prevent this from happening and one should wear eye protection while using a tanning booth. The probability of getting a fungal rash cannot be ruled out if the tanning bed is not properly cleaned. Also if individual skin sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation is not properly evaluated while using a tanning bed, users might experience some minor harmful skin effects such as drying of the skin, mild itching, erythema, etc.

Thus the advantages of tanning beds are simply superficial and not permanent. Keeping in mind the well-established fact that ultraviolet radiation is a human carcinogen and the risks of a tanning bed predominates its benefits, it is sensible to avoid tanning beds.