Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes raised, red, scaly patches on the skin. Many people report temporary relief when spending time in the sun, but the question remains: Is tanning safe for psoriasis treatment?
While natural sunlight and doctor-supervised light therapy (phototherapy) can improve symptoms, indoor tanning beds are not considered a safe or effective treatment option. This article explains the difference between tanning and phototherapy, explores risks, and provides guidance on safer ways to manage psoriasis.
Sunlight vs. Phototherapy for Psoriasis
Both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) light can help manage psoriasis. Controlled medical phototherapy mimics the benefits of sunlight without the harmful risks of tanning beds.
Types of Light Therapy
- Natural Sunlight Therapy
- Short daily sun exposure (5–10 minutes) may help reduce plaques.
- Overexposure increases risk of burns and flare-ups.
- Sunscreen or UV-protective clothing is essential.
- UVB Phototherapy
- Delivers targeted UVB rays in a controlled setting.
- Effective for widespread psoriasis.
- May darken skin or cause temporary irritation.
- PUVA (Psoralen + UVA Therapy)
- Uses medication (psoralen) with UVA light.
- Best for severe or resistant psoriasis.
- Not recommended for long-term use due to cancer risk.
- Excimer Laser Therapy
- Uses focused UVB light on plaques.
- Minimizes exposure to surrounding skin.
Tanning Beds vs. Phototherapy
| Feature | Phototherapy (Doctor-Supervised) | Tanning Beds |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Controlled & monitored | Unsafe, high cancer risk |
| Light Source | UVB (beneficial for psoriasis) | Mostly UVA (less effective) |
| Medical Supervision | Yes | No |
| Effectiveness | Proven treatment | Limited, temporary relief |
| Risks | Minimal if monitored | High risk of melanoma, skin aging |
Key takeaway: Phototherapy is effective and safe when monitored by a doctor, while tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and ineffective psoriasis control.
Risks of Tanning for Psoriasis Patients
While tanning may temporarily improve plaques, the risks outweigh the benefits:
- ⚠️ Higher Skin Cancer Risk – Indoor tanning increases melanoma risk by 59%.
- ⚠️ Sunburns – Certain psoriasis medications (coal tar, tazarotene, biologics) make skin more sensitive.
- ⚠️ Accelerated Aging – UVA exposure damages skin structure.
- ⚠️ Ineffective Treatment – UVA light alone doesn’t control psoriasis effectively.
- ⚠️ Addiction Risk – Some individuals develop tanning dependence.
Safer Alternatives to Tanning
Instead of tanning beds, psoriasis patients can benefit from:
- ✅ Phototherapy (UVB or PUVA) under doctor guidance
- ✅ Topical treatments (corticosteroids, vitamin D creams)
- ✅ Oral medications (methotrexate, cyclosporine)
- ✅ Injectable biologics (adalimumab, etanercept, ustekinumab)
- ✅ Lifestyle management (stress reduction, diet, avoiding alcohol & smoking)
FAQs
1. Can tanning beds cure psoriasis?
No. Tanning beds may provide short-term relief but pose high risks, including cancer.
2. Is natural sunlight safe for psoriasis?
Short, controlled sun exposure may help, but prolonged exposure can worsen symptoms or increase risks.
3. Which is better: tanning or phototherapy?
Phototherapy is medically approved, safer, and more effective than tanning beds.
4. Can phototherapy cause side effects?
Yes, mild redness, itching, or darkening of the skin may occur, but side effects are minimal under medical supervision.
5. Should I stop psoriasis medication before sun exposure?
No. Always consult your doctor, as some drugs increase sensitivity to UV rays.
Takeaway
Tanning is not a safe or recommended treatment for psoriasis. While sunlight and phototherapy may provide symptom relief, tanning beds expose you to harmful UVA rays, raising your risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
For best results, work with your dermatologist to create a personalized psoriasis treatment plan that may include phototherapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.
