The Truth About Tanning Beds: This Week on AOL Health

It's spring break season, and that means that many beach-goers are debating the merits of a base tan before hitting the beach or pool.

Tanning beds have come under scrutiny in recent decades as dermatologists continue to emphasize that a "safe tan" is really an oxymoron and any exposure increases your skin cancer risk. Yet, the tanning bed industry has taken them to task by suggesting that some equipment emits "less or no harmful UVB rays" or use a blue light that is "totally safe."

So are tanning beds safe or is it just another gimmick to keep the Jersey Shore kids from re-upping their monthly all-access passes? AOL Health investigates.

Are you addicted to tanning? It can be as addictive as alcohol or drugs.