In Western countries, tanning beds are used at home or in tanning salons to obtain a sunless tan. Manufacturers of tanning beds claim that these beds tan safely and do not cause skin cancer. However, medical practitioners say that tanning, whether from sunlight or artificial sources of radiation, is never safe. In fact, a tan indicates a skin problem.

Tanning beds are popular across the United States because they offer tans throughout the year. These beds emit a mixture of ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation to produce a bronzed look on white skin. This radiation causes premature aging and skin cancer. Therefore, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), American Medical Association (AMA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn against using tanning beds for cosmetic purposes.

Research shows that some DNA changes occur in people frequently exposed to tanning beds