Posted by Dr. Dan Osborn
Whether or not tanning beds cause skin cancer has been an extraordinarily hot topic as recent research study findings support the American Cancer Society’s conclusion that tanning bed lights do, in fact, cause skin cancer. Tanning beds produce high levels of ultra-violet (UV) light (two to three times more powerful than the sun) that can damage not only the skin, but also the cornea. Of course, an ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure, so always use protective eyewear if you choose to use a tanning bed. If your eyes are not properly protected from the beds’ UV light, your risk for developing burns of the cornea, cancer on the eyelids, cataracts and even macular degeneration is greatly increased.
The American Cancer Society states people 35 or younger who used tanning beds regularly increase their risk of developing melanoma eight-fold. Even occasional use among that age group almost tripled the chances of developing melanoma. Somewhat like a melanoma that can take years to be detected, burns to your cornea may not be felt right away. The burn is not felt until 6 to 12 hours after exposure, so you can suffer severe damage without realizing it.
Closing your eyes, wearing regular sunglasses or using cotton pads on your eyelids are not acceptable methods to protect your eyes from the intensity of UV radiation in tanning beds. Tanning facilities are required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to provide goggles, but it is best to obtain your own pair so you will always be prepared. Make sure your goggles fit snugly and cover your eyes properly. If you borrow the salon’s goggles, be sure they have been sterilized before use to prevent infection.
My recommendation is to avoid the use of tanning beds and the UV exposure that can damage your eyesight and cause premature aging and even cancer. But if you choose to do so and experience any eye pain or notice abnormal spots or sores around your eyes, contact your optometrist or ophthalmologist immediately.