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Is Tanning Addictive?

by Administrator

I can certainly see how it could be.

My sister has gone to a tanning bed for (at least) the last 10 years. She always has a nice tan. Obviously she isn’t concerned with the long term effects that tanning beds are said to have. Whether it’s raining or snowing she starts getting her tan on early..she’s bronzed by May.  She’s not alone and researchers may have found a reason why.

Studies done by Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center have found that the UV rays produced by tanning beds might be addicting to some people. Ultraviolet rays induce the body to produce endorphins, a body chemical that is known to help with pain relief and euphoric feelings. This helps to combat feelings of depression or sadness, and is a naturally produced opiate.

Here was their testing criteria:

The study included eight frequent tanners (eight to 15 times a month) and eight infrequent tanners (no more than 12 times a year). The participants were given either a placebo or a drug (naltrexone) that blocks the effects of endorphins and other opioids. They then used both UV and non-UV tanning beds.

The subjects that were considered “frequent” users were given medications to inhibit endorphins, and reported that they felt jittery and sick, whereas the subjects that were considered “infrequent” users reported no significant side effects. This indicates that the suppression of endorphins could change the way a person feels mentally and physically.

I tend to prefer the real sun over tanning beds, but understand how tanning beds can change how you feel and look. Someone with a tan generally has a sunnier disposition.

Resource: Yahoo News