• Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun aids in the body's production of vitamin D, which boosts the immune system and strengthens bones and muscles. Although UV light is beneficial to the body's working functions, there are some over-exposure hazards to consider as UV lamps can have some harmful effects.
  
  

Immune System

• UV light emits radiation that is blocked from the sun enough by the earth's atmosphere to prevent serious damage. However, there are still risks involved from exposure to UV lights that are used in a number of ways, such as those used in tanning beds. Over exposure to UV radiation suppresses the body's immune system, according to Science Learning. UV radiation potentially causes your skin to sunburn, which in turn affects the white blood cells in your body, inhibiting their function and distribution for approximately 24 hours after exposure to the UV rays. Over-exposure over an extended period of time will damage the immune system and cause you to be more susceptible to infections and diseases. The body's production of vitamin D decreases and lowers natural defense against bacteria, viruses, parasites and toxins.
  
  

Eye Damage

• Exposure to UV radiation over prolonged periods damages the tissues of the eyes, according to Science Learning. Protective eye wear is a necessity while using a tanning bed. The UV radiation causes a burning of the surface of the eye, called photokeratitis or snow blindness. Even though the effects wear off within a couple of days, there is a potential for further complications as you age. The Journal of the American Medical Association reported in 1998 that the risk of developing cataracts can increase with exposure to UV radiation.
  
  

Skin Damage

• Of the UV wavelengths with UVA measuring from 315 to 400 nanometers, UVB equaling 280 to 315 nm and the lower UVC registering at 200 to 280 nm, the UVC is the most damaging. However caution is still needed even when using UVA lamps for suntanning. The UVA lamps used in tanning beds simulate the effect of the sun's rays on the tissues of your body's skin. UVA light accelerates the aging process by destroying collagen and affecting the connective tissue beneath the top layer of skin.