What should you know about sunburn from tanning bed?

Ultraviolet injury can become more noticeable after the session, with warmth, redness, tenderness and tightness. The exposed pattern may follow the tanning bed or leave sharply defined areas. Blisters and later peeling indicate more substantial surface damage. A burn from a tanning bed is not a safe or controlled alternative to outdoor exposure; repeated ultraviolet injury also contributes to long-term sun-damaged skin.

Do not return to the tanning bed while the skin is injured. Cool the affected areas with a damp cloth or cool shower, drink normally, and apply a bland moisturiser to intact skin. Wear loose clothing, avoid rubbing and fragranced products, and do not pop blisters or pick peeling skin. Protect the area from additional ultraviolet exposure, including through exposed windows or outdoor activity. A pharmacist or clinician can discuss suitable pain relief and treatment options.

Seek urgent help for confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, severe weakness, trouble breathing, eye pain or vision changes. Arrange prompt medical review for extensive blistering, severe pain, raw skin, rapidly spreading redness, pus, fever or symptoms that keep worsening. Eye and facial exposure need particular caution because swelling can interfere with vision or breathing.

Ask whether the burn needs examination, how to protect any blisters, which products are suitable, and how to avoid another ultraviolet injury while the skin recovers.