Many people know that spending too much time in the sun can cause sun poisoning, but can the same happen with a sunbed? The answer is yes. Sunbeds emit concentrated ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can trigger severe skin reactions similar to sun poisoning from natural sunlight.
1. What Is Sun Poisoning?
Sun poisoning is a severe overexposure to UV radiation, which goes beyond a normal sunburn. Symptoms may include:
Painful redness or blistering of the skin
Swelling
Nausea or dizziness
Headaches or fever in severe cases
2. How Sunbeds Cause Sun Poisoning
High UV intensity: Sunbeds emit mostly UVA rays at a much higher concentration than natural sunlight.
Sensitive skin or overuse: People with fair skin or those who stay too long in a sunbed are more likely to develop severe reactions.
Rapid UV exposure: Even short sessions can cause burns if the skin is unaccustomed to UV.
3. Symptoms After a Sunbed Session
If you notice the following after tanning, you may be experiencing sun poisoning:
Red, blistered, or extremely tender skin
Rash or hives
Dizziness or nausea
Fever or chills in severe cases
4. Prevention Tips
Limit or avoid sunbed sessions
Always wear protective eyewear
Use moisturizer before and after tanning
Hydrate well before and after exposure
Consider sunless tanning alternatives (lotions, sprays, mousses)
FAQ – Sun Poisoning and Sunbeds
❓ Can you get sun poisoning from a sunbed?
Yes. Overexposure to UV rays in a sunbed can cause severe burns and systemic symptoms similar to sun poisoning from natural sunlight.
❓ How long in a sunbed causes sun poisoning?
It depends on skin type and the intensity of the bed, but fair-skinned individuals may react in as little as 10 minutes.
❓ What should I do if I get sun poisoning from a sunbed?
Cool your skin with aloe vera or cold compresses, stay hydrated, and avoid further UV exposure. Seek medical help if you have severe blistering, fever, or dehydration.
❓ Is occasional sunbed use safe?
Even occasional sessions increase risks. UV exposure damages skin cells and increases skin cancer risk over time.
❓ What is the safest alternative to a sunbed?
Sunless tanning products like lotions, sprays, or bronzers give a safe tan without UV radiation.