The Myth of the "Base Tan": Why Tanning Beds Before Vacation Are Dangerous

The Benefit of the Base Tan?

Last week a gentleman named Bill came to the office to see me for a full body skin cancer screening. He is a highly educated professional. We treated him in the past for skin cancer. Luckily for him, we did not detect anything remotely suspicious for skin cancer at his most recent visit. As I customarily do, at the end of his visit I asked if there was anything else I could do for him or if he had any other questions. He said, “Doc, as a matter of fact I do—in two weeks we are going to the Caribbean and I was wondering what type of tanning beds I should use prior to my trip.”

Why the “Base Tan” Is a Dangerous Myth

Bill was operating under the false notion that if you are going on a tropical vacation, you can get a “protective” base tan by using tanning beds prior to the trip. Tanning beds are a known carcinogen and would increase his risk of developing skin cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each time you tan you increase your risk of getting skin cancer, including melanoma.

In addition, it causes premature aging such as wrinkles and brown spots, changes skin texture, and increases the risk of blinding eye disease. Asking me what type of tanning bed to use would be like asking a lung doctor what the best brand of cigarettes are to smoke in preparation for smoking three packs of cigarettes per day.

Safe Alternatives to Prepare for a Tropical Vacation

Sun Protection Is Key

What should you do if you are going on a tropical vacation? The answer is simple: sun protection. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks out both UVA and UVB with an SPF of 30 or greater. Don’t believe the myth that any SPF over 15 is a waste.

Hats, protective clothing, and sunglasses that block ultraviolet radiation are also a good idea. Do what you love, but try to avoid the peak sun hours and be sure to reapply your sunscreen.

What About Vitamin D?

When I shared this information with Bill, he asked, “What about getting enough Vitamin D?” Tanning beds are not a safe way to get Vitamin D. Vitamin D can be obtained in your diet and with supplements. There really is no good reason to use a tanning bed.

If you want the look of a tan, then my recommendation is to use a self-tanner or to get a spray tan.

Prioritize Long-Term Skin Health

As part of your overall skin health, in addition to sun protection, I do recommend an annual skin evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist. It is also a good idea to do monthly self-examinations. If you have any spots that change, grow, or look suspicious, don’t hesitate to get them checked out.

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