Ultraviolet light can be helpful in many instances with people inflicted with skin diseases like psoriasis, etc. Too much of anything can and will be harmful but to say that "intentionally burning your skin" is the same as going out and tanning a bit is absurd.
My opinion is that tanning beds are better since the amount of ultraviolet light is regulated and controlled. Use the standup ones that you only stay in for 10 minutes or so.
