A tanning bed is a cosmetic device that emits ultraviolet radiation such as UVA and also UVB to generate artificial tanning. Historically, medical devices that emit UVA were developed and adopted for modern indoor tanning. Since UVA (Ultraviolet A of the sun) has less biological effects such as reddening of the skin than UVB (Shortwave Ultraviolet rays), these early tanning beds were considered to be safe. However, it was soon realized that continued use of these devices could also cause sunburns, wrinkles, skin cancer, and were not very effective at inducing tans, so they were eventually phased out. Today, devices that emit a combination of UVA and UVB are predominantly used.
One of the strongest criticisms to the use of indoor tanning beds occurred in December, 1994, when the American Medical Association (AMA) adopted a resolution calling for a ban on the sale and use of tanning equipment, except for medical purposes. However, this resolution was rejected by the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC), an organization that regulates the sale and marketing of indoor tanning equipment.
It has now been established that modern tanning beds and sun lamps...