Sunbed dangers

Instead of simply advising against sunbed use and encouraging sun protection factor, we need to understand the actual effects on the skin.

Sunbeds predominantly emit UVA radiation, which accelerates the ageing process by increasing the enzyme collagenase. This enzyme breaks down the collagen fibrils in the skin’s dermis, leading to accelerated vascular damage and pigmentation. It’s not actually the UV radiation causing harm, but rather the heightened activity of this enzyme.

Research suggests that for every 10 sessions on a sunbed, the skin ages approximately one year. Is it really worth it?