Many people dream of getting a golden tan, sun-kissed glow, or summer tan that gives them a healthy look and feeling. However, not everyone has the patience or the time to sunbathe or lay on the beach for hours on end to achieve this look.

Solariums or tanning beds have become the go-to solution for many people looking for a quick fix to their tanning needs, and it’s created an obsession with this method of tanning.

What is a Solarium?

A solarium or a sunbed is a device that produces UV light to tan the skin. The machine emits three types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC, replicating the sun’s rays.

UVA is what causes the skin to tan, while UVB causes skin damage, burning, and can increase the risk of skin cancer.

Unlike natural sunlight, solariums emit a much higher concentration of UVA rays, which are responsible for premature aging, wrinkles, and cellular damage.

Additionally, salons often use higher-strength solarium beds, which increase the risk of skin damage and reduce the time it takes to achieve a tan.

The Risks of Solariums

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), solariums are a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning they are known to cause cancer in humans.

Frequent use of solariums increases the risk of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Skin damage is a long-term effect of excessive use of solariums, aside from increasing the risk of skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate the skin deeper than natural sunlight, causing damage to skin cells and premature aging.

The skin loses its elasticity and suppleness, and wrinkles and dark spots become more pronounced.

Defining a Solarium Addiction

Addiction to solariums refers to the uncontrollable craving or desire to use solariums, irrespective of any physical or psychological side effects it may cause. For some, the addiction stems from their desire to have a golden and sun-kissed skin tone.

Others may use tanning beds to cope with anxiety, depression, or body dysmorphia, gradually leading to a more severe addiction, emotionally and psychologically.

As with other addictions, users become dependant and feel they can’t function without their regular sunbed sessions.

Symptoms of Solarium Addiction

Symptoms of addiction to solariums may vary depending on an individual’s degree of dependence. Here are some symptoms to watch for:.

Difficulty in staying away from solariums despite the side effects
Regular use of solariums against explicit medical advice
Tanning for longer periods than recommended or directly prescribed by the salon technician
Using tanning beds several times a week
Creating an excuse to use tanning beds, such as those needed for vitamin D therapy
Budgeting more for tanning beds over other essential expenses
Refusing to stop or reduce using solariums despite warnings from friends and family members

The Impact of Solarium Addiction

Solarium addiction isn’t something to be taken lightly, as it can have long-term consequences on an individual’s mental and physical well-being, including:.

Chronic skin damage that could lead to skin cancer, and premature skin aging
Negative effects on mental health, including anxiety and depression
Financial issues from regularly spending significant amounts on tanning beds
What To Do if You are Addicted to Solariums

If you think you are addicted to solariums, it’s essential to recognize the problem and seek help. Below are a few things you can do:.

Speak to a trusted friend or family member and admit your addiction
Seek help from medical professionals or support groups, such as rehab centers, hypnotherapy, or counseling.
Look for alternatives to solariums, such as spray tans, gradual tanning lotions, or airbrush tanning
Delete the numbers of salons that offer solariums or ask a trusted friend to help you stay accountable to your recovery goals.
Conclusion

The tanning bed obsession and solarium addiction are real. Even with knowledge of the severe health implications and the consequences of frequent use, many people are unable to stop using tanning beds.

It’s important to educate the public on the dangers of solariums and provide support to those dealing with solarium addiction.