Skin Cancer

• One of the main disadvantages of indoor tanning is the risk of skin cancer. Just like the sun, tanning beds emit UV rays. This can lead to skin cancer. Tanning beds can be even more dangerous than tanning in the sun, as they often push the limits of the acceptable level of UV rays. There is no way to mitigate the risk of skin cancer when indoor tanning, except to stop doing it.
  
  

Aging

• Another disadvantage to indoor tanning is that it prematurely ages the skin. That is also due to the UV rays. All exposure to these rays damages the skin. Signs of premature aging due to tanning bed use are advanced wrinkles, age spots and reduced elasticity in the skin. The leathery skin that results from too much indoor tanning also results in an aged appearance.
  
  

Sunburns

• Sunburns can happen in a tanning bed, just as with being in the sun. In fact; it is easier to burn in a tanning bed, as the rays are more concentrated. It is also easy to burn when you first start, as you may not know the best timing for your skin. Sunburns are painful and unsightly. They also increase your risk for skin cancer.
  
  

Weakened Immune System

• Indoor tanning can result in a weakened immune system. That is especially the case if you are injured. The UV lights in the tanning bed suppress the immune system. A weakened immune system can lead to infections and an increase in cold sores. It is also dangerous as a weakened immune system can make vaccines less effective.