{"id":26155,"date":"2024-05-30T04:58:36","date_gmt":"2024-05-30T08:58:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/?p=26155"},"modified":"2024-05-29T10:01:39","modified_gmt":"2024-05-29T14:01:39","slug":"can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/can-artificial-sunlight-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>From GrassrootsHealth<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure<\/h4>\n<div>\n<h3>Key Points<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap and can still be a great alternative to make vitamin D and get the other health benefits normally received from sensible full spectrum sunlight exposure<\/li>\n<li>When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D<\/li>\n<li>Studies support the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries; it is important to note that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with skin types that always burn \u2013 see the guidelines provided below, stay safe, and don\u2019t burn<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/vitamin-d-call-for-evidence\/vitamin-d-call-for-evidence\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-6240 size-medium lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine-300x232.jpg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine-300x232.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine-260x201.jpg 260w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine.jpg 468w\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"232\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine-300x232.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine-260x201.jpg 260w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine.jpg 468w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/men-getting-indoor-sunshine-300x232.jpg\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Both natural and artificial sunlight from indoor UV devices, when used with diligence, can act as major interventional tools to help prevent and heal diseases related to a lack of sunshine and\/or vitamin D deficiency. Its use and effectiveness have been\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/sunshine-helped-us-heal-throughout-history\/\">demonstrated throughout history<\/a>. In fact, before the \u2018era of antibiotics,\u2019 phototherapy was a state-of-the-art treatment in contemporary medicine, and when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/phototherapy-helps-improve-symptoms-skin-disorders\/\">Phototherapy<\/a>\u00a0is still used today to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, mood and sleep disorders, and some cancers \u2013 and, of course, vitamin D deficiency.<\/p>\n<p>Indoor UV devices can provide a wide spectrum of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/health-promoting-reactions-body-triggered-exposure-full-spectrum-sunlight\/\">sunshine health benefits<\/a>\u00a0from UVA, UVB, visible light, red light and infrared waves.\u00a0<strong>They are a great alternative when sun exposure is not an option during the winter months, when UVB is not available to make vitamin D, or when we are simply not able to get outdoors to access the mid-day sun.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>Choosing the Right Indoor UV Devices for Your Needs<\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-9536 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-300x200.jpg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-260x174.jpg 260w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-260x174.jpg 260w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/open-tanning-bed-300x200.jpg\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D. Indoor sun and UVB lamps and bulbs are effective at helping to boost vitamin D production in the skin, however, some of these lamps may only offer UVB and no UVA exposure, so vitamin D may be produced but the full benefits of sunshine may not be achieved without exposure to the sun itself. However, since UVB rays may be the most difficult for some to obtain, using an indoor UVB option in addition to outdoor sunshine may be just the right fit. If outdoor sunshine in any amount is not an option, or if you are unable to get as much exposure to sunlight as you would like, choosing an indoor UV device that produces a wider spectrum of light and energy might be a better choice and could act as your \u2018sunshine supplement.\u2019<\/p>\n<h3>Can You Reach Target Vitamin D Levels Using Indoor UV Devices?<\/h3>\n<p>Most people do not get enough sunshine or UVB exposure to contribute much to vitamin D status, however, there are some people who spend extended time outdoors in the mid-day sun or regularly use UVB devices, and these vitamin D inputs do contribute significantly to vitamin D status.<\/p>\n<p>According to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/grassrootshealth.net\/project\/our-scientists\">GrassrootsHealth scientist panel<\/a>\u00a0member, Dr. Reinhold Vieth,<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>\u201cSunbeds and summer sunshine are effective means by which to increase our serum 25(OH)D levels. The advantage of a tanning bed is that exposure to UV light can be controlled more precisely than casual sun exposure and thus can be safer than advising the public to guess at their own sun exposure from sunlight.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>To study this concept further, in the summer of 2020, we updated the GrassrootsHealth D*action Lifestyle questionnaire to include more detailed questions about indoor UV devices used by asking those who indicated using UV equipment in the last 6 months about the type of device used, name of the device, how often it was used, and length of time per session.<\/p>\n<p>A 2023 analysis of the data showed that 5% of the 9,711 participants who had answered the new set of questions indicated the use of indoor UV equipment in the previous 6 months. More than half of those participants had used a device that included UVB, with 43% having used a sunbed with UVA and UVB, and 24% having used a tabletop UVB device.\u00a0<strong>Among the participants using an indoor UV device and not taking vitamin D supplements, 50% had a vitamin D level of 40 ng\/ml (100 nmol\/L) or higher<\/strong>, 34% had a vitamin D level between 30-39 ng\/ml (75-99 nmol\/L), and 16% had a vitamin D level below 30 ng\/ml (75 nmol\/L).<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523.pdf\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8359 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523.png\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523.png 1813w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-300x213.png 300w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-768x544.png 768w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-1024x726.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-260x184.png 260w\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"425\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523.png 1813w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-300x213.png 300w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-768x544.png 768w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-1024x726.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523-260x184.png 260w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523.png\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/GRH-Indoor-UV-Vitamin-D-Levels-0523.pdf\">Click to Enlarge &amp; Print<\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you would like to contribute your UV, sunshine, and vitamin D data to this study, please enroll and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/daction.grassrootshealth.net\/tests\/\">order your vitamin D test kit<\/a>\u00a0today! Use the code\u00a0<strong>SunMonth24<\/strong>\u00a0during the month of May, 2024 to get 10% off your test kit.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>People who use tanning salons, specifically sunbeds that have UVB during the winter and following safe exposure guidelines, can reach physiological blood levels (&gt;100 nmol\/L or 40 ng\/ml) of vitamin D without supplementation.<br \/>\nDr. Samantha M. Kimball<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h3>Different Types of Indoor UVB Provide Different Vitamin D Results<\/h3>\n<p>A study by\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/can-sunshines-not-option\/\">Kimball et al.<\/a>\u00a0on sunbeds and vitamin D in Canada found that individuals following standard sunbed tanning protocols in a typical tanning salon can achieve\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/aim-natural-vitamin-d-levels\/\">physiological levels of vitamin D<\/a>\u00a0when the sunbed emits UVB light in the range equivalent to outdoor summer sunshine, which most sunbed lamps do. More than 75% of all four study groups were considered vitamin D deficient (&lt;30 ng\/mL, or &lt;75 nmol\/L) at the start of the study, in the wintertime.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv.pdf\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-5010 lazyloaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv.png\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv.png 1556w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-296x300.png 296w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-768x779.png 768w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-1010x1024.png 1010w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-260x264.png 260w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-45x45.png 45w\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"608\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv.png 1556w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-296x300.png 296w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-768x779.png 768w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-1010x1024.png 1010w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-260x264.png 260w, https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv-45x45.png 45w\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv.png\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Kimball-UV-D-Level-Fig-1-rv.pdf\">Click to Enlarge &amp; Print<\/a><\/p>\n<p>As shown in the chart above, vitamin D levels increased by an average of 17 ng\/ml (42 nmol\/L) in participants using sunbeds that used 100W and 160W fluorescent bulbs with 2.2% and 4.2% Vitamin D levels continued to increase after a base tan was achieved, all the way to the end of the 12-week study, with no adverse events or skin burns reported.<\/p>\n<p>This study supports the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise serum vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries. It is important to note, as touched on in this short video\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=C7Jz5X18OnA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cUnderstanding Sunbeds and Their Effect on Vitamin D,\u201d<\/a>\u00a0that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/understanding-potential-harms-excessive-sun-exposure-role-skin-pigmentation\/\">skin types that always burn<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Be Safe, Follow the Recommended Guidelines &amp; Don\u2019t Burn<\/h3>\n<p>If considering using indoor tanning options, such as sunbeds, do your research and be sure to follow safety guidelines, such as those set by Health Canada.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Look for, read, and follow the warning and technical labels on the equipment. Labels tell you the recommended time you should be exposed each session (the time will vary, in part, depending on your skin type)<\/li>\n<li>Talk to the salon operator about your skin\u2019s sensitivity and your ability to tan<\/li>\n<li>Do not go over the recommended time in a tanning session for your skin type<\/li>\n<li>Do not use tanning lamps more often than is prescribed for your particular skin type<\/li>\n<li>Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using<\/li>\n<li>Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. This will give your skin a chance to repair some of the damage from the UV rays and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure<\/li>\n<li>Report any side effects (like sunburn or itchiness) to the salon operator. In cases of severe sunburn, see your health care provider<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Be aware that certain medications and products may increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV exposure, such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, psoralens, antifungals, antidiabetic, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, high blood pressure medications, and certain soaps or cosmetics. For a full list of medications and products,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/health-canada\/services\/publications\/health-risks-safety\/2017-guidelines-tanning-salon-owners-operators-users.html#a22\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Practicing safe sun exposure is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. As reviewed above, studies have shown that you can also reach recommended vitamin D levels (&gt;40 ng\/ml or &gt;100 nmol\/L) using indoor UVB options and following time exposure guidelines for your skin type without adverse events. In fact, these options to raise vitamin D levels may even be preferred among\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.grassrootshealth.net\/blog\/science-speaks-causes-low-vitamin-d-response\/\">individuals who may not respond as well to supplementation<\/a>, such as those with digestive conditions or on certain medications that may inhibit absorption.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><i>SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.<\/i><\/p>\n<p><i>\u00a9 2024 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.<\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From GrassrootsHealth Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure Key Points The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":20197,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-26155","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health? - Smart Tan News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"From GrassrootsHealth Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure  Key Points   The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap and can still be a great alternative to make vitamin D and get the other health benefits normally received from sensible full spectrum sunlight exposure  When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D  Studies support the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries; it is important to note that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with skin types that always burn \u2013 see the guidelines provided below, stay safe, and don\u2019t burn        Both natural and artificial sunlight from indoor UV devices, when used with diligence, can act as major interventional tools to help prevent and heal diseases related to a lack of sunshine and\/or vitamin D deficiency. Its use and effectiveness have been\u00a0demonstrated throughout history. In fact, before the \u2018era of antibiotics,\u2019 phototherapy was a state-of-the-art treatment in contemporary medicine, and when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap.\u00a0Phototherapy\u00a0is still used today to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, mood and sleep disorders, and some cancers \u2013 and, of course, vitamin D deficiency.  Indoor UV devices can provide a wide spectrum of\u00a0sunshine health benefits\u00a0from UVA, UVB, visible light, red light and infrared waves.\u00a0They are a great alternative when sun exposure is not an option during the winter months, when UVB is not available to make vitamin D, or when we are simply not able to get outdoors to access the mid-day sun. Choosing the Right Indoor UV Devices for Your Needs When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D. Indoor sun and UVB lamps and bulbs are effective at helping to boost vitamin D production in the skin, however, some of these lamps may only offer UVB and no UVA exposure, so vitamin D may be produced but the full benefits of sunshine may not be achieved without exposure to the sun itself. However, since UVB rays may be the most difficult for some to obtain, using an indoor UVB option in addition to outdoor sunshine may be just the right fit. If outdoor sunshine in any amount is not an option, or if you are unable to get as much exposure to sunlight as you would like, choosing an indoor UV device that produces a wider spectrum of light and energy might be a better choice and could act as your \u2018sunshine supplement.\u2019 Can You Reach Target Vitamin D Levels Using Indoor UV Devices? Most people do not get enough sunshine or UVB exposure to contribute much to vitamin D status, however, there are some people who spend extended time outdoors in the mid-day sun or regularly use UVB devices, and these vitamin D inputs do contribute significantly to vitamin D status.  According to\u00a0GrassrootsHealth scientist panel\u00a0member, Dr. Reinhold Vieth, \u201cSunbeds and summer sunshine are effective means by which to increase our serum 25(OH)D levels. The advantage of a tanning bed is that exposure to UV light can be controlled more precisely than casual sun exposure and thus can be safer than advising the public to guess at their own sun exposure from sunlight.\u201d To study this concept further, in the summer of 2020, we updated the GrassrootsHealth D*action Lifestyle questionnaire to include more detailed questions about indoor UV devices used by asking those who indicated using UV equipment in the last 6 months about the type of device used, name of the device, how often it was used, and length of time per session.  A 2023 analysis of the data showed that 5% of the 9,711 participants who had answered the new set of questions indicated the use of indoor UV equipment in the previous 6 months. More than half of those participants had used a device that included UVB, with 43% having used a sunbed with UVA and UVB, and 24% having used a tabletop UVB device.\u00a0Among the participants using an indoor UV device and not taking vitamin D supplements, 50% had a vitamin D level of 40 ng\/ml (100 nmol\/L) or higher, 34% had a vitamin D level between 30-39 ng\/ml (75-99 nmol\/L), and 16% had a vitamin D level below 30 ng\/ml (75 nmol\/L).  Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  If you would like to contribute your UV, sunshine, and vitamin D data to this study, please enroll and\u00a0order your vitamin D test kit\u00a0today! Use the code\u00a0SunMonth24\u00a0during the month of May, 2024 to get 10% off your test kit. People who use tanning salons, specifically sunbeds that have UVB during the winter and following safe exposure guidelines, can reach physiological blood levels (&gt;100 nmol\/L or 40 ng\/ml) of vitamin D without supplementation. Dr. Samantha M. Kimball Different Types of Indoor UVB Provide Different Vitamin D Results A study by\u00a0Kimball et al.\u00a0on sunbeds and vitamin D in Canada found that individuals following standard sunbed tanning protocols in a typical tanning salon can achieve\u00a0physiological levels of vitamin D\u00a0when the sunbed emits UVB light in the range equivalent to outdoor summer sunshine, which most sunbed lamps do. More than 75% of all four study groups were considered vitamin D deficient (&lt;30 ng\/mL, or &lt;75 nmol\/L) at the start of the study, in the wintertime.    Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  As shown in the chart above, vitamin D levels increased by an average of 17 ng\/ml (42 nmol\/L) in participants using sunbeds that used 100W and 160W fluorescent bulbs with 2.2% and 4.2% Vitamin D levels continued to increase after a base tan was achieved, all the way to the end of the 12-week study, with no adverse events or skin burns reported.  This study supports the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise serum vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries. It is important to note, as touched on in this short video\u00a0\u201cUnderstanding Sunbeds and Their Effect on Vitamin D,\u201d\u00a0that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with\u00a0skin types that always burn. Be Safe, Follow the Recommended Guidelines &amp; Don\u2019t Burn If considering using indoor tanning options, such as sunbeds, do your research and be sure to follow safety guidelines, such as those set by Health Canada.   Look for, read, and follow the warning and technical labels on the equipment. Labels tell you the recommended time you should be exposed each session (the time will vary, in part, depending on your skin type)  Talk to the salon operator about your skin\u2019s sensitivity and your ability to tan  Do not go over the recommended time in a tanning session for your skin type  Do not use tanning lamps more often than is prescribed for your particular skin type  Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using  Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. This will give your skin a chance to repair some of the damage from the UV rays and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure  Report any side effects (like sunburn or itchiness) to the salon operator. In cases of severe sunburn, see your health care provider  Be aware that certain medications and products may increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV exposure, such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, psoralens, antifungals, antidiabetic, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, high blood pressure medications, and certain soaps or cosmetics. For a full list of medications and products,\u00a0click here.  Practicing safe sun exposure is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. As reviewed above, studies have shown that you can also reach recommended vitamin D levels (&gt;40 ng\/ml or &gt;100 nmol\/L) using indoor UVB options and following time exposure guidelines for your skin type without adverse events. In fact, these options to raise vitamin D levels may even be preferred among\u00a0individuals who may not respond as well to supplementation, such as those with digestive conditions or on certain medications that may inhibit absorption.  &nbsp;  &nbsp;  SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2024 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health? - Smart Tan News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"From GrassrootsHealth Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure  Key Points   The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap and can still be a great alternative to make vitamin D and get the other health benefits normally received from sensible full spectrum sunlight exposure  When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D  Studies support the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries; it is important to note that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with skin types that always burn \u2013 see the guidelines provided below, stay safe, and don\u2019t burn        Both natural and artificial sunlight from indoor UV devices, when used with diligence, can act as major interventional tools to help prevent and heal diseases related to a lack of sunshine and\/or vitamin D deficiency. Its use and effectiveness have been\u00a0demonstrated throughout history. In fact, before the \u2018era of antibiotics,\u2019 phototherapy was a state-of-the-art treatment in contemporary medicine, and when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap.\u00a0Phototherapy\u00a0is still used today to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, mood and sleep disorders, and some cancers \u2013 and, of course, vitamin D deficiency.  Indoor UV devices can provide a wide spectrum of\u00a0sunshine health benefits\u00a0from UVA, UVB, visible light, red light and infrared waves.\u00a0They are a great alternative when sun exposure is not an option during the winter months, when UVB is not available to make vitamin D, or when we are simply not able to get outdoors to access the mid-day sun. Choosing the Right Indoor UV Devices for Your Needs When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D. Indoor sun and UVB lamps and bulbs are effective at helping to boost vitamin D production in the skin, however, some of these lamps may only offer UVB and no UVA exposure, so vitamin D may be produced but the full benefits of sunshine may not be achieved without exposure to the sun itself. However, since UVB rays may be the most difficult for some to obtain, using an indoor UVB option in addition to outdoor sunshine may be just the right fit. If outdoor sunshine in any amount is not an option, or if you are unable to get as much exposure to sunlight as you would like, choosing an indoor UV device that produces a wider spectrum of light and energy might be a better choice and could act as your \u2018sunshine supplement.\u2019 Can You Reach Target Vitamin D Levels Using Indoor UV Devices? Most people do not get enough sunshine or UVB exposure to contribute much to vitamin D status, however, there are some people who spend extended time outdoors in the mid-day sun or regularly use UVB devices, and these vitamin D inputs do contribute significantly to vitamin D status.  According to\u00a0GrassrootsHealth scientist panel\u00a0member, Dr. Reinhold Vieth, \u201cSunbeds and summer sunshine are effective means by which to increase our serum 25(OH)D levels. The advantage of a tanning bed is that exposure to UV light can be controlled more precisely than casual sun exposure and thus can be safer than advising the public to guess at their own sun exposure from sunlight.\u201d To study this concept further, in the summer of 2020, we updated the GrassrootsHealth D*action Lifestyle questionnaire to include more detailed questions about indoor UV devices used by asking those who indicated using UV equipment in the last 6 months about the type of device used, name of the device, how often it was used, and length of time per session.  A 2023 analysis of the data showed that 5% of the 9,711 participants who had answered the new set of questions indicated the use of indoor UV equipment in the previous 6 months. More than half of those participants had used a device that included UVB, with 43% having used a sunbed with UVA and UVB, and 24% having used a tabletop UVB device.\u00a0Among the participants using an indoor UV device and not taking vitamin D supplements, 50% had a vitamin D level of 40 ng\/ml (100 nmol\/L) or higher, 34% had a vitamin D level between 30-39 ng\/ml (75-99 nmol\/L), and 16% had a vitamin D level below 30 ng\/ml (75 nmol\/L).  Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  If you would like to contribute your UV, sunshine, and vitamin D data to this study, please enroll and\u00a0order your vitamin D test kit\u00a0today! Use the code\u00a0SunMonth24\u00a0during the month of May, 2024 to get 10% off your test kit. People who use tanning salons, specifically sunbeds that have UVB during the winter and following safe exposure guidelines, can reach physiological blood levels (&gt;100 nmol\/L or 40 ng\/ml) of vitamin D without supplementation. Dr. Samantha M. Kimball Different Types of Indoor UVB Provide Different Vitamin D Results A study by\u00a0Kimball et al.\u00a0on sunbeds and vitamin D in Canada found that individuals following standard sunbed tanning protocols in a typical tanning salon can achieve\u00a0physiological levels of vitamin D\u00a0when the sunbed emits UVB light in the range equivalent to outdoor summer sunshine, which most sunbed lamps do. More than 75% of all four study groups were considered vitamin D deficient (&lt;30 ng\/mL, or &lt;75 nmol\/L) at the start of the study, in the wintertime.    Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  As shown in the chart above, vitamin D levels increased by an average of 17 ng\/ml (42 nmol\/L) in participants using sunbeds that used 100W and 160W fluorescent bulbs with 2.2% and 4.2% Vitamin D levels continued to increase after a base tan was achieved, all the way to the end of the 12-week study, with no adverse events or skin burns reported.  This study supports the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise serum vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries. It is important to note, as touched on in this short video\u00a0\u201cUnderstanding Sunbeds and Their Effect on Vitamin D,\u201d\u00a0that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with\u00a0skin types that always burn. Be Safe, Follow the Recommended Guidelines &amp; Don\u2019t Burn If considering using indoor tanning options, such as sunbeds, do your research and be sure to follow safety guidelines, such as those set by Health Canada.   Look for, read, and follow the warning and technical labels on the equipment. Labels tell you the recommended time you should be exposed each session (the time will vary, in part, depending on your skin type)  Talk to the salon operator about your skin\u2019s sensitivity and your ability to tan  Do not go over the recommended time in a tanning session for your skin type  Do not use tanning lamps more often than is prescribed for your particular skin type  Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using  Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. This will give your skin a chance to repair some of the damage from the UV rays and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure  Report any side effects (like sunburn or itchiness) to the salon operator. In cases of severe sunburn, see your health care provider  Be aware that certain medications and products may increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV exposure, such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, psoralens, antifungals, antidiabetic, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, high blood pressure medications, and certain soaps or cosmetics. For a full list of medications and products,\u00a0click here.  Practicing safe sun exposure is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. As reviewed above, studies have shown that you can also reach recommended vitamin D levels (&gt;40 ng\/ml or &gt;100 nmol\/L) using indoor UVB options and following time exposure guidelines for your skin type without adverse events. In fact, these options to raise vitamin D levels may even be preferred among\u00a0individuals who may not respond as well to supplementation, such as those with digestive conditions or on certain medications that may inhibit absorption.  &nbsp;  &nbsp;  SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2024 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Smart Tan News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-05-30T08:58:36+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1360\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"smarttannews\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@SmartTan\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"smarttannews\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"smarttannews\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819\"},\"headline\":\"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health?\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-05-30T08:58:36+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\"},\"wordCount\":1574,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"News\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\",\"name\":\"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health? - Smart Tan News\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-05-30T08:58:36+00:00\",\"description\":\"From GrassrootsHealth Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure Key Points The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap and can still be a great alternative to make vitamin D and get the other health benefits normally received from sensible full spectrum sunlight exposure When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D Studies support the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries; it is important to note that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with skin types that always burn \u2013 see the guidelines provided below, stay safe, and don\u2019t burn Both natural and artificial sunlight from indoor UV devices, when used with diligence, can act as major interventional tools to help prevent and heal diseases related to a lack of sunshine and\/or vitamin D deficiency. Its use and effectiveness have been\u00a0demonstrated throughout history. In fact, before the \u2018era of antibiotics,\u2019 phototherapy was a state-of-the-art treatment in contemporary medicine, and when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap.\u00a0Phototherapy\u00a0is still used today to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, mood and sleep disorders, and some cancers \u2013 and, of course, vitamin D deficiency. Indoor UV devices can provide a wide spectrum of\u00a0sunshine health benefits\u00a0from UVA, UVB, visible light, red light and infrared waves.\u00a0They are a great alternative when sun exposure is not an option during the winter months, when UVB is not available to make vitamin D, or when we are simply not able to get outdoors to access the mid-day sun. Choosing the Right Indoor UV Devices for Your Needs When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D. Indoor sun and UVB lamps and bulbs are effective at helping to boost vitamin D production in the skin, however, some of these lamps may only offer UVB and no UVA exposure, so vitamin D may be produced but the full benefits of sunshine may not be achieved without exposure to the sun itself. However, since UVB rays may be the most difficult for some to obtain, using an indoor UVB option in addition to outdoor sunshine may be just the right fit. If outdoor sunshine in any amount is not an option, or if you are unable to get as much exposure to sunlight as you would like, choosing an indoor UV device that produces a wider spectrum of light and energy might be a better choice and could act as your \u2018sunshine supplement.\u2019 Can You Reach Target Vitamin D Levels Using Indoor UV Devices? Most people do not get enough sunshine or UVB exposure to contribute much to vitamin D status, however, there are some people who spend extended time outdoors in the mid-day sun or regularly use UVB devices, and these vitamin D inputs do contribute significantly to vitamin D status. According to\u00a0GrassrootsHealth scientist panel\u00a0member, Dr. Reinhold Vieth, \u201cSunbeds and summer sunshine are effective means by which to increase our serum 25(OH)D levels. The advantage of a tanning bed is that exposure to UV light can be controlled more precisely than casual sun exposure and thus can be safer than advising the public to guess at their own sun exposure from sunlight.\u201d To study this concept further, in the summer of 2020, we updated the GrassrootsHealth D*action Lifestyle questionnaire to include more detailed questions about indoor UV devices used by asking those who indicated using UV equipment in the last 6 months about the type of device used, name of the device, how often it was used, and length of time per session. A 2023 analysis of the data showed that 5% of the 9,711 participants who had answered the new set of questions indicated the use of indoor UV equipment in the previous 6 months. More than half of those participants had used a device that included UVB, with 43% having used a sunbed with UVA and UVB, and 24% having used a tabletop UVB device.\u00a0Among the participants using an indoor UV device and not taking vitamin D supplements, 50% had a vitamin D level of 40 ng\/ml (100 nmol\/L) or higher, 34% had a vitamin D level between 30-39 ng\/ml (75-99 nmol\/L), and 16% had a vitamin D level below 30 ng\/ml (75 nmol\/L). Click to Enlarge &amp; Print If you would like to contribute your UV, sunshine, and vitamin D data to this study, please enroll and\u00a0order your vitamin D test kit\u00a0today! Use the code\u00a0SunMonth24\u00a0during the month of May, 2024 to get 10% off your test kit. People who use tanning salons, specifically sunbeds that have UVB during the winter and following safe exposure guidelines, can reach physiological blood levels (&gt;100 nmol\/L or 40 ng\/ml) of vitamin D without supplementation. Dr. Samantha M. Kimball Different Types of Indoor UVB Provide Different Vitamin D Results A study by\u00a0Kimball et al.\u00a0on sunbeds and vitamin D in Canada found that individuals following standard sunbed tanning protocols in a typical tanning salon can achieve\u00a0physiological levels of vitamin D\u00a0when the sunbed emits UVB light in the range equivalent to outdoor summer sunshine, which most sunbed lamps do. More than 75% of all four study groups were considered vitamin D deficient (&lt;30 ng\/mL, or &lt;75 nmol\/L) at the start of the study, in the wintertime. Click to Enlarge &amp; Print As shown in the chart above, vitamin D levels increased by an average of 17 ng\/ml (42 nmol\/L) in participants using sunbeds that used 100W and 160W fluorescent bulbs with 2.2% and 4.2% Vitamin D levels continued to increase after a base tan was achieved, all the way to the end of the 12-week study, with no adverse events or skin burns reported. This study supports the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise serum vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries. It is important to note, as touched on in this short video\u00a0\u201cUnderstanding Sunbeds and Their Effect on Vitamin D,\u201d\u00a0that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with\u00a0skin types that always burn. Be Safe, Follow the Recommended Guidelines &amp; Don\u2019t Burn If considering using indoor tanning options, such as sunbeds, do your research and be sure to follow safety guidelines, such as those set by Health Canada. Look for, read, and follow the warning and technical labels on the equipment. Labels tell you the recommended time you should be exposed each session (the time will vary, in part, depending on your skin type) Talk to the salon operator about your skin\u2019s sensitivity and your ability to tan Do not go over the recommended time in a tanning session for your skin type Do not use tanning lamps more often than is prescribed for your particular skin type Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. This will give your skin a chance to repair some of the damage from the UV rays and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure Report any side effects (like sunburn or itchiness) to the salon operator. In cases of severe sunburn, see your health care provider Be aware that certain medications and products may increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV exposure, such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, psoralens, antifungals, antidiabetic, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, high blood pressure medications, and certain soaps or cosmetics. For a full list of medications and products,\u00a0click here. Practicing safe sun exposure is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. As reviewed above, studies have shown that you can also reach recommended vitamin D levels (&gt;40 ng\/ml or &gt;100 nmol\/L) using indoor UVB options and following time exposure guidelines for your skin type without adverse events. In fact, these options to raise vitamin D levels may even be preferred among\u00a0individuals who may not respond as well to supplementation, such as those with digestive conditions or on certain medications that may inhibit absorption. &nbsp; &nbsp; SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business. \u00a9 2024 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg\",\"width\":1360,\"height\":1000},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health?\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\",\"name\":\"Smart Tan News\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Smart Tan\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/smarttan.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Smart-Tan.png\",\"width\":500,\"height\":164,\"caption\":\"Smart Tan\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan\",\"https:\/\/x.com\/SmartTan\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819\",\"name\":\"smarttannews\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/c0189f76465f47ce293287354f8076bfdb83130e65538eb34fcd2cd44e9f0e53?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"smarttannews\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/author\/smarttannews\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health? - Smart Tan News","description":"From GrassrootsHealth Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure  Key Points   The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap and can still be a great alternative to make vitamin D and get the other health benefits normally received from sensible full spectrum sunlight exposure  When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D  Studies support the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries; it is important to note that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with skin types that always burn \u2013 see the guidelines provided below, stay safe, and don\u2019t burn        Both natural and artificial sunlight from indoor UV devices, when used with diligence, can act as major interventional tools to help prevent and heal diseases related to a lack of sunshine and\/or vitamin D deficiency. Its use and effectiveness have been\u00a0demonstrated throughout history. In fact, before the \u2018era of antibiotics,\u2019 phototherapy was a state-of-the-art treatment in contemporary medicine, and when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap.\u00a0Phototherapy\u00a0is still used today to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, mood and sleep disorders, and some cancers \u2013 and, of course, vitamin D deficiency.  Indoor UV devices can provide a wide spectrum of\u00a0sunshine health benefits\u00a0from UVA, UVB, visible light, red light and infrared waves.\u00a0They are a great alternative when sun exposure is not an option during the winter months, when UVB is not available to make vitamin D, or when we are simply not able to get outdoors to access the mid-day sun. Choosing the Right Indoor UV Devices for Your Needs When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D. Indoor sun and UVB lamps and bulbs are effective at helping to boost vitamin D production in the skin, however, some of these lamps may only offer UVB and no UVA exposure, so vitamin D may be produced but the full benefits of sunshine may not be achieved without exposure to the sun itself. However, since UVB rays may be the most difficult for some to obtain, using an indoor UVB option in addition to outdoor sunshine may be just the right fit. If outdoor sunshine in any amount is not an option, or if you are unable to get as much exposure to sunlight as you would like, choosing an indoor UV device that produces a wider spectrum of light and energy might be a better choice and could act as your \u2018sunshine supplement.\u2019 Can You Reach Target Vitamin D Levels Using Indoor UV Devices? Most people do not get enough sunshine or UVB exposure to contribute much to vitamin D status, however, there are some people who spend extended time outdoors in the mid-day sun or regularly use UVB devices, and these vitamin D inputs do contribute significantly to vitamin D status.  According to\u00a0GrassrootsHealth scientist panel\u00a0member, Dr. Reinhold Vieth, \u201cSunbeds and summer sunshine are effective means by which to increase our serum 25(OH)D levels. The advantage of a tanning bed is that exposure to UV light can be controlled more precisely than casual sun exposure and thus can be safer than advising the public to guess at their own sun exposure from sunlight.\u201d To study this concept further, in the summer of 2020, we updated the GrassrootsHealth D*action Lifestyle questionnaire to include more detailed questions about indoor UV devices used by asking those who indicated using UV equipment in the last 6 months about the type of device used, name of the device, how often it was used, and length of time per session.  A 2023 analysis of the data showed that 5% of the 9,711 participants who had answered the new set of questions indicated the use of indoor UV equipment in the previous 6 months. More than half of those participants had used a device that included UVB, with 43% having used a sunbed with UVA and UVB, and 24% having used a tabletop UVB device.\u00a0Among the participants using an indoor UV device and not taking vitamin D supplements, 50% had a vitamin D level of 40 ng\/ml (100 nmol\/L) or higher, 34% had a vitamin D level between 30-39 ng\/ml (75-99 nmol\/L), and 16% had a vitamin D level below 30 ng\/ml (75 nmol\/L).  Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  If you would like to contribute your UV, sunshine, and vitamin D data to this study, please enroll and\u00a0order your vitamin D test kit\u00a0today! Use the code\u00a0SunMonth24\u00a0during the month of May, 2024 to get 10% off your test kit. People who use tanning salons, specifically sunbeds that have UVB during the winter and following safe exposure guidelines, can reach physiological blood levels (&gt;100 nmol\/L or 40 ng\/ml) of vitamin D without supplementation. Dr. Samantha M. Kimball Different Types of Indoor UVB Provide Different Vitamin D Results A study by\u00a0Kimball et al.\u00a0on sunbeds and vitamin D in Canada found that individuals following standard sunbed tanning protocols in a typical tanning salon can achieve\u00a0physiological levels of vitamin D\u00a0when the sunbed emits UVB light in the range equivalent to outdoor summer sunshine, which most sunbed lamps do. More than 75% of all four study groups were considered vitamin D deficient (&lt;30 ng\/mL, or &lt;75 nmol\/L) at the start of the study, in the wintertime.    Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  As shown in the chart above, vitamin D levels increased by an average of 17 ng\/ml (42 nmol\/L) in participants using sunbeds that used 100W and 160W fluorescent bulbs with 2.2% and 4.2% Vitamin D levels continued to increase after a base tan was achieved, all the way to the end of the 12-week study, with no adverse events or skin burns reported.  This study supports the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise serum vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries. It is important to note, as touched on in this short video\u00a0\u201cUnderstanding Sunbeds and Their Effect on Vitamin D,\u201d\u00a0that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with\u00a0skin types that always burn. Be Safe, Follow the Recommended Guidelines &amp; Don\u2019t Burn If considering using indoor tanning options, such as sunbeds, do your research and be sure to follow safety guidelines, such as those set by Health Canada.   Look for, read, and follow the warning and technical labels on the equipment. Labels tell you the recommended time you should be exposed each session (the time will vary, in part, depending on your skin type)  Talk to the salon operator about your skin\u2019s sensitivity and your ability to tan  Do not go over the recommended time in a tanning session for your skin type  Do not use tanning lamps more often than is prescribed for your particular skin type  Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using  Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. This will give your skin a chance to repair some of the damage from the UV rays and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure  Report any side effects (like sunburn or itchiness) to the salon operator. In cases of severe sunburn, see your health care provider  Be aware that certain medications and products may increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV exposure, such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, psoralens, antifungals, antidiabetic, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, high blood pressure medications, and certain soaps or cosmetics. For a full list of medications and products,\u00a0click here.  Practicing safe sun exposure is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. As reviewed above, studies have shown that you can also reach recommended vitamin D levels (&gt;40 ng\/ml or &gt;100 nmol\/L) using indoor UVB options and following time exposure guidelines for your skin type without adverse events. In fact, these options to raise vitamin D levels may even be preferred among\u00a0individuals who may not respond as well to supplementation, such as those with digestive conditions or on certain medications that may inhibit absorption.  &nbsp;  &nbsp;  SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2024 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health? - Smart Tan News","og_description":"From GrassrootsHealth Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure  Key Points   The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap and can still be a great alternative to make vitamin D and get the other health benefits normally received from sensible full spectrum sunlight exposure  When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D  Studies support the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries; it is important to note that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with skin types that always burn \u2013 see the guidelines provided below, stay safe, and don\u2019t burn        Both natural and artificial sunlight from indoor UV devices, when used with diligence, can act as major interventional tools to help prevent and heal diseases related to a lack of sunshine and\/or vitamin D deficiency. Its use and effectiveness have been\u00a0demonstrated throughout history. In fact, before the \u2018era of antibiotics,\u2019 phototherapy was a state-of-the-art treatment in contemporary medicine, and when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap.\u00a0Phototherapy\u00a0is still used today to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, mood and sleep disorders, and some cancers \u2013 and, of course, vitamin D deficiency.  Indoor UV devices can provide a wide spectrum of\u00a0sunshine health benefits\u00a0from UVA, UVB, visible light, red light and infrared waves.\u00a0They are a great alternative when sun exposure is not an option during the winter months, when UVB is not available to make vitamin D, or when we are simply not able to get outdoors to access the mid-day sun. Choosing the Right Indoor UV Devices for Your Needs When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D. Indoor sun and UVB lamps and bulbs are effective at helping to boost vitamin D production in the skin, however, some of these lamps may only offer UVB and no UVA exposure, so vitamin D may be produced but the full benefits of sunshine may not be achieved without exposure to the sun itself. However, since UVB rays may be the most difficult for some to obtain, using an indoor UVB option in addition to outdoor sunshine may be just the right fit. If outdoor sunshine in any amount is not an option, or if you are unable to get as much exposure to sunlight as you would like, choosing an indoor UV device that produces a wider spectrum of light and energy might be a better choice and could act as your \u2018sunshine supplement.\u2019 Can You Reach Target Vitamin D Levels Using Indoor UV Devices? Most people do not get enough sunshine or UVB exposure to contribute much to vitamin D status, however, there are some people who spend extended time outdoors in the mid-day sun or regularly use UVB devices, and these vitamin D inputs do contribute significantly to vitamin D status.  According to\u00a0GrassrootsHealth scientist panel\u00a0member, Dr. Reinhold Vieth, \u201cSunbeds and summer sunshine are effective means by which to increase our serum 25(OH)D levels. The advantage of a tanning bed is that exposure to UV light can be controlled more precisely than casual sun exposure and thus can be safer than advising the public to guess at their own sun exposure from sunlight.\u201d To study this concept further, in the summer of 2020, we updated the GrassrootsHealth D*action Lifestyle questionnaire to include more detailed questions about indoor UV devices used by asking those who indicated using UV equipment in the last 6 months about the type of device used, name of the device, how often it was used, and length of time per session.  A 2023 analysis of the data showed that 5% of the 9,711 participants who had answered the new set of questions indicated the use of indoor UV equipment in the previous 6 months. More than half of those participants had used a device that included UVB, with 43% having used a sunbed with UVA and UVB, and 24% having used a tabletop UVB device.\u00a0Among the participants using an indoor UV device and not taking vitamin D supplements, 50% had a vitamin D level of 40 ng\/ml (100 nmol\/L) or higher, 34% had a vitamin D level between 30-39 ng\/ml (75-99 nmol\/L), and 16% had a vitamin D level below 30 ng\/ml (75 nmol\/L).  Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  If you would like to contribute your UV, sunshine, and vitamin D data to this study, please enroll and\u00a0order your vitamin D test kit\u00a0today! Use the code\u00a0SunMonth24\u00a0during the month of May, 2024 to get 10% off your test kit. People who use tanning salons, specifically sunbeds that have UVB during the winter and following safe exposure guidelines, can reach physiological blood levels (&gt;100 nmol\/L or 40 ng\/ml) of vitamin D without supplementation. Dr. Samantha M. Kimball Different Types of Indoor UVB Provide Different Vitamin D Results A study by\u00a0Kimball et al.\u00a0on sunbeds and vitamin D in Canada found that individuals following standard sunbed tanning protocols in a typical tanning salon can achieve\u00a0physiological levels of vitamin D\u00a0when the sunbed emits UVB light in the range equivalent to outdoor summer sunshine, which most sunbed lamps do. More than 75% of all four study groups were considered vitamin D deficient (&lt;30 ng\/mL, or &lt;75 nmol\/L) at the start of the study, in the wintertime.    Click to Enlarge &amp; Print  As shown in the chart above, vitamin D levels increased by an average of 17 ng\/ml (42 nmol\/L) in participants using sunbeds that used 100W and 160W fluorescent bulbs with 2.2% and 4.2% Vitamin D levels continued to increase after a base tan was achieved, all the way to the end of the 12-week study, with no adverse events or skin burns reported.  This study supports the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise serum vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries. It is important to note, as touched on in this short video\u00a0\u201cUnderstanding Sunbeds and Their Effect on Vitamin D,\u201d\u00a0that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with\u00a0skin types that always burn. Be Safe, Follow the Recommended Guidelines &amp; Don\u2019t Burn If considering using indoor tanning options, such as sunbeds, do your research and be sure to follow safety guidelines, such as those set by Health Canada.   Look for, read, and follow the warning and technical labels on the equipment. Labels tell you the recommended time you should be exposed each session (the time will vary, in part, depending on your skin type)  Talk to the salon operator about your skin\u2019s sensitivity and your ability to tan  Do not go over the recommended time in a tanning session for your skin type  Do not use tanning lamps more often than is prescribed for your particular skin type  Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using  Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. This will give your skin a chance to repair some of the damage from the UV rays and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure  Report any side effects (like sunburn or itchiness) to the salon operator. In cases of severe sunburn, see your health care provider  Be aware that certain medications and products may increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV exposure, such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, psoralens, antifungals, antidiabetic, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, high blood pressure medications, and certain soaps or cosmetics. For a full list of medications and products,\u00a0click here.  Practicing safe sun exposure is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. As reviewed above, studies have shown that you can also reach recommended vitamin D levels (&gt;40 ng\/ml or &gt;100 nmol\/L) using indoor UVB options and following time exposure guidelines for your skin type without adverse events. In fact, these options to raise vitamin D levels may even be preferred among\u00a0individuals who may not respond as well to supplementation, such as those with digestive conditions or on certain medications that may inhibit absorption.  &nbsp;  &nbsp;  SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business.  \u00a9 2024 International Smart Tan Network. All rights reserved.","og_url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/","og_site_name":"Smart Tan News","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/SmartTan","article_published_time":"2024-05-30T08:58:36+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1360,"height":1000,"url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"smarttannews","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@SmartTan","twitter_site":"@SmartTan","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"smarttannews","Est. reading time":"8 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/"},"author":{"name":"smarttannews","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#\/schema\/person\/722dc7049af55e0ed743d67ce9ed4819"},"headline":"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health?","datePublished":"2024-05-30T08:58:36+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/"},"wordCount":1574,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg","articleSection":["News"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/","url":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/","name":"Can Artificial Sunlight from Indoor UV Devices Benefit Health? - Smart Tan News","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/index.php\/can-artificial-sunlight-from-indoor-uv-devices-benefit-health\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/news.smarttan.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/sunbed-1-19-18.jpg","datePublished":"2024-05-30T08:58:36+00:00","description":"From GrassrootsHealth Indoor UV devices have been used throughout history as effective health-promoting tools by providing a source of artificial sunlight in place of sunshine exposure Key Points The use and effectiveness of indoor UV devices have been demonstrated throughout history; when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap and can still be a great alternative to make vitamin D and get the other health benefits normally received from sensible full spectrum sunlight exposure When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D Studies support the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries; it is important to note that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with skin types that always burn \u2013 see the guidelines provided below, stay safe, and don\u2019t burn Both natural and artificial sunlight from indoor UV devices, when used with diligence, can act as major interventional tools to help prevent and heal diseases related to a lack of sunshine and\/or vitamin D deficiency. Its use and effectiveness have been\u00a0demonstrated throughout history. In fact, before the \u2018era of antibiotics,\u2019 phototherapy was a state-of-the-art treatment in contemporary medicine, and when natural sunlight was unavailable, artificial sunlight generated by indoor UV devices was successfully used to fill the gap.\u00a0Phototherapy\u00a0is still used today to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, mood and sleep disorders, and some cancers \u2013 and, of course, vitamin D deficiency. Indoor UV devices can provide a wide spectrum of\u00a0sunshine health benefits\u00a0from UVA, UVB, visible light, red light and infrared waves.\u00a0They are a great alternative when sun exposure is not an option during the winter months, when UVB is not available to make vitamin D, or when we are simply not able to get outdoors to access the mid-day sun. Choosing the Right Indoor UV Devices for Your Needs When considering a source of artificial UV light, it is important to be aware of the type of UV or light emitted by the device, its safety, and the physiological effects it may produce, especially in terms of vitamin D. Indoor sun and UVB lamps and bulbs are effective at helping to boost vitamin D production in the skin, however, some of these lamps may only offer UVB and no UVA exposure, so vitamin D may be produced but the full benefits of sunshine may not be achieved without exposure to the sun itself. However, since UVB rays may be the most difficult for some to obtain, using an indoor UVB option in addition to outdoor sunshine may be just the right fit. If outdoor sunshine in any amount is not an option, or if you are unable to get as much exposure to sunlight as you would like, choosing an indoor UV device that produces a wider spectrum of light and energy might be a better choice and could act as your \u2018sunshine supplement.\u2019 Can You Reach Target Vitamin D Levels Using Indoor UV Devices? Most people do not get enough sunshine or UVB exposure to contribute much to vitamin D status, however, there are some people who spend extended time outdoors in the mid-day sun or regularly use UVB devices, and these vitamin D inputs do contribute significantly to vitamin D status. According to\u00a0GrassrootsHealth scientist panel\u00a0member, Dr. Reinhold Vieth, \u201cSunbeds and summer sunshine are effective means by which to increase our serum 25(OH)D levels. The advantage of a tanning bed is that exposure to UV light can be controlled more precisely than casual sun exposure and thus can be safer than advising the public to guess at their own sun exposure from sunlight.\u201d To study this concept further, in the summer of 2020, we updated the GrassrootsHealth D*action Lifestyle questionnaire to include more detailed questions about indoor UV devices used by asking those who indicated using UV equipment in the last 6 months about the type of device used, name of the device, how often it was used, and length of time per session. A 2023 analysis of the data showed that 5% of the 9,711 participants who had answered the new set of questions indicated the use of indoor UV equipment in the previous 6 months. More than half of those participants had used a device that included UVB, with 43% having used a sunbed with UVA and UVB, and 24% having used a tabletop UVB device.\u00a0Among the participants using an indoor UV device and not taking vitamin D supplements, 50% had a vitamin D level of 40 ng\/ml (100 nmol\/L) or higher, 34% had a vitamin D level between 30-39 ng\/ml (75-99 nmol\/L), and 16% had a vitamin D level below 30 ng\/ml (75 nmol\/L). Click to Enlarge &amp; Print If you would like to contribute your UV, sunshine, and vitamin D data to this study, please enroll and\u00a0order your vitamin D test kit\u00a0today! Use the code\u00a0SunMonth24\u00a0during the month of May, 2024 to get 10% off your test kit. People who use tanning salons, specifically sunbeds that have UVB during the winter and following safe exposure guidelines, can reach physiological blood levels (&gt;100 nmol\/L or 40 ng\/ml) of vitamin D without supplementation. Dr. Samantha M. Kimball Different Types of Indoor UVB Provide Different Vitamin D Results A study by\u00a0Kimball et al.\u00a0on sunbeds and vitamin D in Canada found that individuals following standard sunbed tanning protocols in a typical tanning salon can achieve\u00a0physiological levels of vitamin D\u00a0when the sunbed emits UVB light in the range equivalent to outdoor summer sunshine, which most sunbed lamps do. More than 75% of all four study groups were considered vitamin D deficient (&lt;30 ng\/mL, or &lt;75 nmol\/L) at the start of the study, in the wintertime. Click to Enlarge &amp; Print As shown in the chart above, vitamin D levels increased by an average of 17 ng\/ml (42 nmol\/L) in participants using sunbeds that used 100W and 160W fluorescent bulbs with 2.2% and 4.2% Vitamin D levels continued to increase after a base tan was achieved, all the way to the end of the 12-week study, with no adverse events or skin burns reported. This study supports the use of artificially derived UVB light to raise serum vitamin D levels when the UV index of the sun is low, especially in the winter months of northern countries. It is important to note, as touched on in this short video\u00a0\u201cUnderstanding Sunbeds and Their Effect on Vitamin D,\u201d\u00a0that tanning beds may not be recommended for individuals with\u00a0skin types that always burn. Be Safe, Follow the Recommended Guidelines &amp; Don\u2019t Burn If considering using indoor tanning options, such as sunbeds, do your research and be sure to follow safety guidelines, such as those set by Health Canada. Look for, read, and follow the warning and technical labels on the equipment. Labels tell you the recommended time you should be exposed each session (the time will vary, in part, depending on your skin type) Talk to the salon operator about your skin\u2019s sensitivity and your ability to tan Do not go over the recommended time in a tanning session for your skin type Do not use tanning lamps more often than is prescribed for your particular skin type Always wear the safety eyewear that is recommended for the type of lamp you are using Allow at least 48 hours between each tanning session. This will give your skin a chance to repair some of the damage from the UV rays and may slow down the aging effects caused by the exposure Report any side effects (like sunburn or itchiness) to the salon operator. In cases of severe sunburn, see your health care provider Be aware that certain medications and products may increase the sensitivity of the skin to UV exposure, such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, psoralens, antifungals, antidiabetic, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, high blood pressure medications, and certain soaps or cosmetics. For a full list of medications and products,\u00a0click here. Practicing safe sun exposure is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. As reviewed above, studies have shown that you can also reach recommended vitamin D levels (&gt;40 ng\/ml or &gt;100 nmol\/L) using indoor UVB options and following time exposure guidelines for your skin type without adverse events. In fact, these options to raise vitamin D levels may even be preferred among\u00a0individuals who may not respond as well to supplementation, such as those with digestive conditions or on certain medications that may inhibit absorption. &nbsp; &nbsp; SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can\u2019t say in your tanning salon business. \u00a9 2024 International Smart Tan Network. 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