In cases of extreme overexposure to sunlight or sunlamps, it is best to contact your health care practitioner immediately, before the worst inflammation appears. An intense sunburn requires continuous cool compresses, topical steroids, and lubricating agents. Aspirin or other analgesics may be necessary to relieve pain. A truly severe sunburn may be accompanied by nausea, fever, chills, and a rapid pulse. Medical attention should be sought immediately for these symptoms.

Deaths have been reported in people who use sunbeds. A ban on the interstate sales and distribution of sunbeds has been suggested by the American Medical Association. More than 27 States have pending legislation to regulate the industry that preys on millions in North America.

There is no effective supervision, or regulation of the sunbed industry in Canada or the U.S. There are no approved training programs for the non-medical use of these ultraviolet generators. You can call them "ultraviolent", because their ultimate goal is to destroy your skin's cells, and to stimulate the development of a skin cancer, not a "beautiful golden tan".

A 700% increase in the incidence of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer is associated with the use of artificial tanning. All tanning is harmful, there is no question about it, none whatsoever. Only you can protect yourself from harm!

When someone wants to sell you on using a sunbed at a "health club", tell them to take a hike, and ask them for their records of maintenance, if their equipment has been calibrated, and whether anyone has developed burns, or skin cancer after using their beds.

A 20-30 minute exposure from a sunbed is equal to a full day at the beach, with no significant benefit. Most tanning session give the skin the equivalent to a 3-4 SPF factor, and the result is actually damaging to all the skin surfaces, especially the areas around the genitalia, where it may stir up a breakout of herpes. Not a very good thing is it?