It's that time of year again. When many spring breakers and vacationers hit the tanning beds to get a head start on that bronze glow. But beware. You can catch a lot more in tanning beds than just a few rays.
     Dr. Dawn Davis has seen plenty of infections from tanning beds. One patient contracted warts from a tanning bed that was not properly cleaned. She is having laser treatment to remove them.  It has taken four years and many treatments and she still has some remaining warts.
     Warts, caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV, are just one of the many health risks associated with tanning bed use. Dermatologist, Dr. Dawn Davis says, "It's very dangerous. I have seen people come to my office who have gotten severe burns and scarring from tanning beds and lots of infections."
     Rashes, skin ulcerations and cellulites, a skin infection caused by the staphylococcus bacteria are just a few. UVA and UVB rays can also cause cataracts and damage your retina. Dr Davis says, "The other thing I like to warn against tanning beds is that you increase your risk for melanoma approximately eight times over your life time."
     So before you stretch out on a tanning bed consider the risks. Dr. Davis says if you absolutely have to get tan, use sunless tanners or go to a salon and get sprayed.