Tanning Bed Welts

[chrissy1548]

I have been going in tanning beds on and off for the past several years. Last week I went into a stand-up bed for less than my normal time and later that night developed a rash/reddened welts on my upper arms, neck, and upper chest. It had been a couple weeks since I last tanned but I have done that before and tanned for the same amount of time, without a problem. I always use a lotion and haven't switched it for several months. I am not on any new medication either. I would like to continue to tan but don't want to worsen or continue to get this rash!

[chrissy1548]

Thanks for the help. The hives or rash went away a few days after tanning. Now the patches are just a dry area of pinker skin, similar to the look of eczema. I did not try tanning again this week but may try next week and see if it returns.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to hives which are mostly due to allergic reaction. Take some antihistaminic like Benadryl or Claritin and apply some calamine lotion on the hives. If the symptoms persist then please get it examined from a dermatologist.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.