Tanning Beds and Heart Defibrillators: What You Need to Know

It is generally not recommended for a person with a heart defibrillator implanted to use tanning bed. Defibrillators are sensitive to magnetic fields, and exposure to strong magnetic fields can potentially interfere with the proper functioning of the device.

Tanning beds emit ultraviolet radiation (UV), which can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, UV radiation can worsen sun damage already caused to the skin, which may impact both the healing of surgical incisions and the effectiveness of the defibrillator.

Exposure of the heart defibrillator to strong magnetic fields can interfere with how it accurately senses and detects potentially life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms. This interference may delay or prevent the defibrillator from delivering a necessary electric shock to restore the heart's normal rhythm.

Before undergoing any type of tanning, including the use of a tanning bed or other UV-emitting devices, it is crucial to consult with your doctor or the medical team responsible for your heart defibrillator. They can assess your specific medical situation and provide personalized advice on whether tanning beds are safe for you and offer alternative methods for achieving the desired skin tone.