Some people use tanning beds to increase vitamin D, but how effective — and safe — is this method?
1. How Vitamin D Is Made
When UVB rays hit the skin, they trigger the production of vitamin D, an essential nutrient for bone and immune health.
2. Tanning Bed UVB Output
Most tanning beds are designed for cosmetic tanning and use mostly UVA light, with only a small percentage of UVB, which limits vitamin D production.
3. Health Considerations
While tanning beds can help produce vitamin D, the same effect can be achieved with short periods of sun exposure or supplements — without the same level of UV risk.
Conclusion
Although tanning beds can stimulate vitamin D production, they are not the safest or most efficient method.