The question of whether a person can be truly “allergic” to a tanning bed is common, and the answer involves multiple types of skin reactions. While the public often uses the term allergy to describe any adverse skin response, the biological mechanisms are complex. Tanning beds expose the skin to intense ultraviolet (UV) light, primarily UVA, which can trigger several distinct inflammatory conditions. Understanding these distinctions is necessary to determine the cause of a rash and how to prevent it.
Understanding Photosensitivity When Light Causes Reactions
The most frequent rash caused directly by UV exposure is a condition called Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE), often mistakenly called a sun allergy. PMLE is not a true allergy against a foreign external protein, but rather an abnormal immune response to the UV radiation itself. The theory suggests that UV light alters a compound within the skin cells, and the body’s immune system then recognizes this altered compound as an invader, triggering an inflammatory cascade.
Tanning beds predominantly emit ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, which penetrates deeper into the skin layers than UVB light. This UVA exposure is the primary culprit, causing up to 90% of PMLE cases. The reaction is delayed hypersensitivity, meaning it typically erupts hours or even days after the session. PMLE commonly appears after the first few exposures following a long period without UV radiation, such as during the spring or a winter tanning session.
The rash can manifest in various ways, ranging from small red bumps and papules to larger, raised patches and even blisters. This phenomenon is a type of photosensitivity, where the body displays an exaggerated reaction to light. While PMLE is an internal immune reaction to UV-altered skin compounds, true allergic reactions involving external substances are also possible.
Triggers for Contact and Photoallergic Dermatitis
Rashes in the tanning environment can also be caused by true allergic or irritant reactions to chemicals that come into contact with the skin. One type is allergic contact dermatitis, which occurs when the immune system recognizes a topical substance as an allergen. Common triggers in a salon setting are the fragrances, preservatives, and botanicals found in tanning lotions, accelerators, and cosmetic products. Even strong cleaning agents or residual products left on the acrylic surface of the tanning bed can cause this localized rash.
A second distinct type is photoallergic dermatitis, which requires the presence of both the chemical and the UV light to trigger the reaction. In this case, the UV radiation chemically modifies the substance—such as an ingredient in a medication or a topical cosmetic—on or in the skin, making it allergenic. Common photosensitizing agents include certain antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, and diuretics. Since tanning beds primarily use UVA light, this is a distinct risk for individuals taking photosensitizing medications.
Recognizing Symptoms and Immediate Relief
Symptoms of tanning bed reactions typically include intense itching, the appearance of small red bumps, or raised, inflamed patches on the skin. In cases of PMLE, the rash is often distributed on areas that are suddenly exposed to light, such as the chest or arms. A key symptom of true contact dermatitis is that the rash is strictly limited to the areas where the irritant or allergen touched the skin, like the sides of the body that pressed against the bed.
For immediate relief, the first step is to stop the UV exposure and gently cleanse the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water. Applying a cool compress or a topical product containing aloe vera can help soothe the burning and itching sensation. Over-the-counter options such as a 1% hydrocortisone cream can reduce localized swelling and inflammation, while oral antihistamines may help manage the itching. Avoid applying heavily fragranced or greasy lotions to the rash, as these can trap heat and potentially worsen the irritation.
Prevention Strategies and When to Seek Medical Advice
Preventing future reactions begins with identifying the precise trigger, whether it is photosensitivity or a chemical contact issue. If the reaction is suspected to be contact dermatitis from a topical product, a new product should be patch-tested on a small, inconspicuous area of skin for 48 hours before full use. For those prone to PMLE, gradually conditioning the skin with very short, low-intensity UV exposures over several sessions can reduce the sensitivity, a process known as photohardening. Inquiring about the cleaning and disinfecting agents used on the tanning bed surface is also a simple preventative measure.
Individuals currently taking any oral or topical medication should consult a pharmacist or physician to review potential photosensitizing side effects before using a tanning bed. If a rash does appear, seek professional medical advice if the symptoms are severe, include blistering, or if the rash is widespread and accompanied by systemic symptoms like a fever. A dermatologist can perform patch testing or phototesting to accurately differentiate between a sensitivity to UV light and a true contact allergy, ensuring the most effective long-term prevention strategy.