Can Tanning Beds Alleviate Psoriasis Symptoms? Exploring the Risks and Benefits
While some individuals with psoriasis may experience temporary relief from symptoms using tanning beds, the overwhelming consensus among dermatologists is that the risks, particularly the increased risk of skin cancer, significantly outweigh any potential benefits. Therefore, Can Going To The Tanning Bed Help With Psoriasis? is not generally recommended and safer, medically supervised phototherapy options are strongly preferred.
Psoriasis: Understanding the Skin Condition
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells. This buildup results in scaling, inflammation, and thick, red patches that can be itchy and painful. There is no cure for psoriasis, but a variety of treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include topical creams, oral medications, injectable biologics, and light therapy.
Light Therapy and Psoriasis: The Science Behind the Treatment
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light, either UVB or UVA, under medical supervision. This controlled exposure can slow the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation, effectively alleviating psoriasis symptoms. Narrowband UVB is often the preferred form of phototherapy as it is considered safer and more effective than broadband UVB or UVA.
Tanning Beds: A Risky Source of UV Light
Tanning beds primarily emit UVA radiation, although some also emit smaller amounts of UVB. While UVA can penetrate deeper into the skin than UVB, it is less effective at treating psoriasis and carries a higher risk of long-term skin damage, including premature aging and skin cancer. The UV output of tanning beds is often unregulated and inconsistent, making it difficult to control the dose of radiation and increasing the risk of burns and other adverse effects. This lack of control makes Can Going To The Tanning Bed Help With Psoriasis? a far less safe alternative to medical phototherapy.
Comparing Tanning Beds and Medical Phototherapy
The key differences between tanning beds and medical phototherapy are control, supervision, and type of UV radiation:
| Feature | Tanning Beds | Medical Phototherapy |
|---|---|---|
| UV Radiation | Primarily UVA, some UVB, often unregulated | Controlled UVA or UVB (narrowband preferred) |
| Supervision | Unsupervised | Medically supervised |
| Dosage | Inconsistent, difficult to control | Precisely measured and controlled |
| Risk of Burns | Higher | Lower |
| Skin Cancer Risk | Significantly higher | Elevated, but managed and monitored |
| Effectiveness | Less effective for psoriasis | More effective for psoriasis |
Why Tanning Beds Are Not Recommended
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and other leading medical organizations strongly advise against using tanning beds for any purpose, including treating psoriasis. The risks associated with tanning beds, especially the increased risk of skin cancer, far outweigh any potential benefits for psoriasis management.
Safer Alternatives: Medically Supervised Phototherapy Options
Patients with psoriasis should consult a dermatologist to discuss appropriate treatment options. Safer and more effective alternatives to tanning beds include:
- Narrowband UVB phototherapy: This is the most common and preferred form of phototherapy for psoriasis.
- UVA phototherapy (PUVA): This involves taking a psoralen medication to make the skin more sensitive to UVA light.
- Excimer laser: This targets specific areas of affected skin with high-intensity UVB light.
Common Mistakes When Considering Tanning Beds for Psoriasis
- Self-treating without medical supervision: It is crucial to consult a dermatologist before starting any new treatment for psoriasis.
- Assuming tanning beds are a safe alternative to medical phototherapy: They are not.
- Ignoring the risks of skin cancer: Tanning bed use significantly increases the risk of skin cancer.
- Using tanning beds to get a tan: There is no safe tan from UV radiation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will a tanning bed cure my psoriasis?
No, a tanning bed will not cure your psoriasis. While some individuals may experience temporary relief from symptoms, psoriasis is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Relying solely on tanning beds can actually worsen your condition over time due to the risks of skin damage and cancer.
How long should I stay in a tanning bed if I have psoriasis?
Even if you are considering tanning beds (which is discouraged), it’s crucial to remember that the exposure time should be drastically reduced and never done without consulting a medical professional. The unsupervised nature and UVA-heavy light of tanning beds can quickly lead to burns and further damage to your skin. A dermatologist can advise you on controlled light exposure, should it be suitable.
Is UVB or UVA better for treating psoriasis?
Narrowband UVB is generally considered the most effective and safest type of UV light for treating psoriasis. It targets the specific wavelengths of UV light that have the most therapeutic effect while minimizing the risk of skin damage. UVA can be effective, but it usually requires the use of psoralen medication (PUVA) and carries a higher risk of long-term side effects.
Can I use a tanning bed if my dermatologist approves it?
Most dermatologists strongly advise against using tanning beds for psoriasis treatment due to the increased risk of skin cancer and the availability of safer, more effective alternatives such as narrowband UVB phototherapy. While rare, if a dermatologist were to consider UV treatment from a tanning bed, it would be accompanied by a strict regimen, careful monitoring, and awareness of the inherent risks.
What are the side effects of tanning bed use for psoriasis?
The side effects of tanning bed use for psoriasis are the same as for anyone who uses tanning beds: skin burns, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. These risks are amplified if you have psoriasis because your skin is already inflamed and sensitive.
How often should I use a tanning bed if I have psoriasis?
Given the increased risks, any use is discouraged, and the general consensus is to avoid tanning beds entirely. If you were to pursue this route despite medical advice, the frequency should be minimal and carefully monitored, but even then, safer alternatives like medical phototherapy are strongly recommended.
What other treatments are available for psoriasis besides light therapy?
Numerous treatments are available for psoriasis, including topical creams and ointments (corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, retinoids), oral medications (methotrexate, cyclosporine, apremilast), and injectable biologics (TNF-alpha inhibitors, interleukin inhibitors). A dermatologist can help you determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
Are there any natural ways to treat psoriasis?
While some natural remedies may provide some relief from psoriasis symptoms, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. Examples include using moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated, taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements, and avoiding triggers that worsen psoriasis.
How can I protect my skin from the sun if I have psoriasis?
Protecting your skin from the sun is essential, regardless of whether you have psoriasis. This includes wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM), and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Is it safe to use self-tanner if I have psoriasis?
Self-tanners are generally safe to use if you have psoriasis, as they do not involve UV radiation. However, it is important to test the product on a small area of skin first to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
How long does it take for phototherapy to work for psoriasis?
The time it takes for phototherapy to work for psoriasis varies from person to person, but most patients start to see improvement within a few weeks of treatment. It is important to follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully and attend all scheduled appointments.
What are the long-term risks of phototherapy for psoriasis?
The long-term risks of phototherapy for psoriasis include an increased risk of skin cancer, although the risk is lower with narrowband UVB than with UVA. It is important to weigh the benefits of phototherapy against the risks and to discuss any concerns with your dermatologist.
Can Going To The Tanning Bed Help With Psoriasis? As we’ve seen, while there might be anecdotal reports of benefit, the medical consensus points overwhelmingly toward the dangers outweighing any potential gains. Prioritize your long-term health and explore safer, medically supervised options for managing your psoriasis.