The Dangers of Tanning: Why You Should Skip the Sun and the Salon

 

Sometimes in the middle of winter, you might get a bit discouraged because you aren't outside as much and you'd like your tan back. Although, a tan might seem like a sign of health, the truth is, tanning is a sign of skin damage. Both sunbathing and using tanning beds expose your skin to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can have serious and long-lasting consequences.  

You might wonder why tanning beds are dangerous.  Well, tanning beds emit high levels of UVA radiation, which penetrates deeper into the skin than the UVB rays from the sun. This deeper penetration increases the risk of skin cancer.  Unfortunately, tanning bed use significantly increases the risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.   Tanning beds also increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. One study indicated that you can increase your risk of getting cancer up to 75% by using a tanning bed once and if you are under the age of 35.

In addition,  UV radiation accelerates skin aging, leading to wrinkles, age spots, and leathery skin.  Unfortunately, tanning beds can damage your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts and other eye problems.  Also,  UV radiation can suppress the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.  

Furthermore, deciding to suntan outside in the sun also has its risks. Since the sun also emits both UVA and UVB rays, prolonged sun exposure carries the same risks of skin cancer as tanning beds. Unfortunately, sunburn is a painful and potentially dangerous side effect of excessive sun exposure.  Sin exposure also contributes to premature gaining of the skin, just like tanning beds.Sun exposure can also damage your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts and other eye problems. 

You might wonder if there are any healthy alternatives to getting a "Tan".  If you're looking for a healthy way to achieve a bronzed look, consider these safer alternatives. First look at self-tanning products.  They  are available in a variety of forms, including lotions, sprays, and mousses. They provide a temporary, sunless tan without the harmful effects of UV radiation. Check out bronzing powders and creams since they can add a subtle glow to your skin without any risk of sun damage. In addition, many tinted moisturizers contain subtle bronzing pigments that can give your skin a healthy sheen.

Remember, when spending time outdoors, always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.  Whenever possible, seek shade during the peak sun hours (10:00 am to 4:00 pm). Always, wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat, to minimize sun exposure. Tanning, whether in a tanning bed or in the sun, is a harmful practice. Prioritize your health and choose safe alternatives to achieve a bronzed look. Remember, a healthy glow comes from within, not from damaging your skin.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great weekend.