You can develop a rash after using a tanning bed, which is a common side effect of indoor tanning. A “tanning bed rash” is a general term for various forms of skin irritation or inflammation that appear after exposure to intense ultraviolet (UV) light and the enclosed heat environment. These reactions range from immediate irritation to delayed immune responses. Understanding the specific trigger is the first step toward effective treatment and prevention.
Mechanisms Behind Tanning Bed Rashes
The enclosed environment of a tanning bed, combining heat and UV light, creates two distinct pathways for skin reactions. The first mechanism involves the skin’s direct immune response to concentrated UV exposure, often resulting in Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE). In PMLE, UV radiation, predominantly UVA, triggers an inflammatory response. The immune system recognizes a compound altered by UV light as foreign, leading to an itchy, bumpy rash. This is a common form of photosensitivity, essentially a sun allergy caused by artificial light.
The second mechanism relates to the physical environment, specifically heat and moisture. Heat rash, known as Miliaria, occurs when heat and sweat become trapped against the skin by the non-porous acrylic surface. Blockage of the sweat ducts causes sweat to leak into surrounding skin layers, resulting in inflammation. Contact with chemical irritants, such as harsh cleaning agents or ingredients in tanning lotions, can also cause contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction independent of UV light or heat.
Recognizing Specific Rash Types and Symptoms
Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE) typically presents as clusters of small, raised, itchy bumps or tiny blisters. It frequently appears on areas like the chest, neck, or arms that are not usually exposed to sun. This rash may not appear until hours or even a few days after the tanning session, distinguishing it from immediate reactions.
A heat rash (Miliaria) shows up almost immediately after the session. It appears as tiny, clear, fluid-filled bumps (Miliaria crystallina) or small, red, prickly bumps (Miliaria rubra). This type is often found in skin folds or areas pressed against the bed, where sweat ducts are blocked. Contact dermatitis, caused by lotion or cleaning residue, usually results in localized redness, swelling, and sometimes blistering precisely where the irritant touched the skin.
The warm, moist environment can also exacerbate a fungal infection called Tinea Versicolor. This is an overgrowth of the naturally occurring yeast, Malassezia. After tanning, it becomes noticeable as patches of skin that appear lighter or darker than the surrounding tanned skin because the fungus prevents normal tanning.
Immediate Care and Future Prevention
For immediate relief of an existing rash, the goal is to cool and soothe the irritated skin. Applying cool compresses or taking a cool bath helps reduce inflammation and the burning or prickling sensation. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can reduce itching and redness, and an oral antihistamine may help control the immune or allergic response. If the rash shows signs of infection, such as increasing pain, pus drainage, or is accompanied by a fever, seek professional medical attention.
To prevent future rashes, consider reducing the duration of your tanning sessions to limit UV exposure, especially if you suspect PMLE. Always wipe down the acrylic surface of the bed with a provided sanitizer before use to minimize contact with residual cleaning chemicals or fungal spores. Ensuring your skin is clean and dry before entering the bed helps prevent the sweat duct blockage that causes heat rash. If you suspect a product reaction, switch to a hypoallergenic lotion or refrain from using one entirely. Gradually exposing your skin to UV light over several short sessions may also help the skin adjust.