Dermatologists Criticize Kim Kardashian's Tanning Bed Approach to Psoriasis Treatment: 'Irresponsible' Backlash Unleashed

In the aftermath of media mogul Kim Kardashian's revelation of using a tanning bed to manage her psoriasis, the medical community is pushing back, labeling her approach as "irresponsible." Kardashian showcased the tanning bed in the offices of her skincare brand, SKKN, on TikTok, proudly declaring, "I'm Kim Kardashian—of course, I have a tanning bed." The ensuing social media storm accused her of promoting an unhealthy practice, particularly given the increased melanoma risk associated with tanning bed use, as highlighted by the National Institute of Health.

Amidst the criticism, Kardashian defended her choice, asserting that the tanning bed serves a specific purpose in managing her psoriasis. However, dermatologists are quick to dispute the efficacy and safety of her approach. Dr. Susan Bard, a dermatologist at Manhattan Specialty Care in New York City, expressed reservations about Kardashian's endorsement of tanning beds for psoriasis relief.

While acknowledging that the tanning bed may alleviate Kardashian's psoriasis symptoms, Dr. Bard emphasizes that it is not the recommended method. In a candid statement to The Daily Beast, she notes, "I'm sure her tanning bed eases her psoriasis, but that's not the right way to go about it." Dr. Bard contrasts Kardashian's at-home approach with professional settings, where dermatologists can administer precise amounts of ultraviolet radiation at specific wavelengths tailored for psoriasis treatment. In contrast, home tanning beds lack such control, exposing users to unregulated wavelengths and indefinite exposure durations.

As the controversy unfolds, Kardashian's justification for her tanning bed use raises concerns within the medical community, prompting a broader discussion on responsible practices for managing psoriasis and the potential risks associated with unconventional treatment methods.

Medical Experts Criticize Kim Kardashian's Psoriasis Treatment: Safer Alternatives Ignored

Amidst the controversy surrounding Kim Kardashian's endorsement of tanning beds for psoriasis treatment, dermatologists are voicing concerns about the safety and efficacy of her approach. Dr. Susan Bard from Manhattan Specialty Care emphasizes that if Kardashian genuinely sought to treat her psoriasis, numerous safe medical therapies exist, rendering ultraviolet radiation unnecessary in the modern medical landscape.

Dr. Bard highlights the evolution of medical therapies, noting that advancements in medicine, technology, and science have significantly reduced the reliance on ultraviolet radiation treatment for psoriasis. While acknowledging that phototherapy was once a primary option in limited therapeutic scenarios, she underscores the availability of safer alternatives in contemporary medicine.

Dr. Samer Jaber of Washington Square Dermatology echoes these concerns, emphasizing the heightened risks associated with indoor tanning, including an increased risk of skin cancer, premature aging, wrinkles, brown spots, and reduced skin elasticity. He suggests red light as a safer alternative, citing its effectiveness in treating psoriasis without the damaging effects associated with ultraviolet radiation.

In the eyes of medical experts, Kardashian's promotion of tanning beds for psoriasis treatment is deemed "incredibly irresponsible." Dr. Bard clarifies that while the method may improve her psoriasis symptoms, likening it to saying heroin alleviates PTSD symptoms – effective, but not the best approach. The critique underscores the importance of advocating for evidence-based, safe medical therapies in managing skin conditions, urging a more responsible stance from public figures in the realm of healthcare recommendations.

In the midst of the debate surrounding Kim Kardashian's unconventional use of tanning beds for psoriasis treatment, the voices of dermatological experts resound with a unified message of caution and concern. Dr. Susan Bard and Dr. Samer Jaber, both prominent figures in dermatology, underscore the existence of safer and more advanced medical therapies that render ultraviolet radiation treatment obsolete for psoriasis.

The evolution of medical science, technology, and treatment options has paved the way for alternatives that not only mitigate the symptoms of psoriasis but also eliminate the inherent risks associated with tanning beds. Dr. Bard emphasizes the broader array of safe therapies available today, emphasizing that Kardashian's endorsement of tanning beds represents an outdated and potentially harmful approach.

Dr. Jaber draws attention to the adverse effects of indoor tanning, ranging from an increased risk of skin cancer to premature aging, urging individuals to consider red light therapy as a more secure home treatment option for psoriasis.

In the final analysis, Kardashian's advocacy for tanning beds is labeled as 'incredibly irresponsible' by medical experts. The analogy drawn by Dr. Bard, comparing it to using heroin for PTSD relief, underscores the urgency for responsible healthcare recommendations. The episode serves as a reminder of the importance of evidence-based practices in managing medical conditions and the responsibility that public figures bear when sharing health-related information. As the discourse unfolds, it prompts a broader reflection on the role of celebrity influence in shaping public perceptions about healthcare choices and the need for a more informed and judicious approach to health advocacy.