Tanning Salons Not a Healthy Choice
Indoor Tanning Increases Risk of Developing Skin Cancer
Aug 3, 2008
It’s already August and the days will be getting shorter, school will be starting, and vacations will be ending soon. Many people think they look healthier with a little summer color and turn to tanning salons to assist them in keeping that look all year round. Tanning indoors is anything but healthy.
There are tanning salons in just about every town. Hair salons and fitness centers often have them available for their customers' to use. There is no argument that tanning is a huge revenue maker. The healthy glow that so many people strive to keep all year long, however, may not be so healthy in the long run according to The American Academy of Dermatology.
The Facts on Indoor Tanning
For the most part, indoor tanning is for cosmetic purposes only. The fact is that regularly exposing yourself to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of skin cancer, including melanoma, as well as premature aging and eye damage.
One alarming statistic that the Melanoma Foundation of New England notes is that tanning bed usage "once a month before the age of 35 increases melanoma risk by 75%." With melanoma being the second most common cancer among young women aged 25-29, discouraging the use of indoor tanning is essential. This is especially important since the percentage of young females using indoor tanning is so high.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association also discourages the use of tanning beds and sun lamps and encourages greater regulations of tanning beds and are recommending that minors not use them.
Alternative Tanning
A tan is skin damage so no tan should be considered a good tan. If you are searching for an alternative to looking tan without sun exposure or use of indoor tanning, there are many sunless self-tanning products on the market that are deemed safe. These products often do not include a sunscreen, which is recommended as always when you will be exposed to the sun.
Skin Cancer Prevention
Education. Having all the facts seems to be the key in terms of preventing unnecessary exposure to UV radiation. If more people are aware of the effects of UV radiation, hopefully that will be enough to make them think twice before unnecessarily setting foot in a tanning salon in the future.
Early Detection. A monthly self-exam of your skin is essential for you to notice any unusual changes. A yearly full body exam by a board certified dermatologist is best especially if you find something suspicious. Melanoma can be treated if found in its earliest stages.
When it comes to sun exposure, remember less is best.
