Tanning Bed Rash: Causes, Symptoms & What to Do

Tanning beds emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the skin. UV radiation can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. A rash after tanning in a bed is a sign of sunburn.

Sunburn is a type of inflammation of the skin caused by overexposure to UV radiation. Symptoms of sunburn include:

- Redness

- Swelling

- Pain

- Blisters

- Itching

- Rash

- Fever

- Chills

- Nausea

- Vomiting

If you experience any of these symptoms after tanning in a bed, you should see a doctor.

How to avoid a rash after tanning in a bed

- Limit your exposure to UV radiation. The more time you spend in a tanning bed, the greater your risk of developing a rash. Try to limit your tanning sessions to 10 minutes or less, and avoid tanning more than once a week.

- Use a sunscreen. Apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher to your skin before you tan. Be sure to reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating.

- Wear protective clothing. Wear sunglasses, a hat, and long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from UV radiation.

- See a doctor if you develop a rash. If you experience a rash after tanning in a bed, you should see a doctor to rule out any other medical conditions.