As spring break and proms approach, many young women turn to tanning beds to achieve a bronzed look. However, tanning beds carry risks of premature aging and skin cancer.
As a dermatology provider, I encourage girls and women of all ages to prioritize their long-term health and embrace their natural skin tone. Instead of indoor tanning or excessive sun exposure, consider safer alternatives like self-tanning products or getting a spray tan to achieve the desired look without risking your health.
We may think a tan gives us a healthy glow, but in reality a tan is a sign of skin damage.
Indoor tanning exposes the skin to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, increasing the risk of skin cancer such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Notably, using tanning beds before age 20 increases the risk of developing melanoma, the most serious skin cancer, by a staggering 47%.
Additionally, indoor tanning poses greater risks than outdoor tanning, as tanning beds emit concentrated UV radiation, often at levels much higher than natural sunlight. This intensified exposure can significantly increase the risk of skin damage and cancer.
Outdoor tanning and sun exposure also damages the skin over time. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. Proactive skin protection is essential for maintaining youthful and healthy skin.
Be sun safe
Getting a base tan to prevent sunburn is a myth. Instead, practice safe sun on your beach vacation! The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan to take a couple sun breaks between these hours. Go inside for lunch, take a siesta, find a shaded outdoor café, or do a little shopping!
When you’re outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat, big sunglasses and broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating. Cover-ups are essential. Opt for dark or bright colors or tightly woven fabric. If you can see through fabric when you hold it up to the light, UV rays can reach your skin. You can also buy clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor). Choose UPF 30 or UPF 50 for the best protection.
While sunlight can boost mood by promoting the production of serotonin, it’s important to balance sun exposure with proper sun protection. Enjoying the outdoors responsibly, by spending time in the sun during non-peak hours, wearing sunscreen, and seeking shade can positively impact mood without overexposing the skin to harmful UV radiation.
Prevent premature aging
Sun exposure and indoor tanning accelerate premature aging of the skin. UV radiation damages the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin, age spots, and uneven skin tone. Protecting your skin from UV radiation can help prevent premature aging and maintain a youthful appearance.
Tanning may seem desirable in the short term, but it’s essential to prioritize your long-term health and well-being. Embracing your natural skin tone and practicing sun safety measures looks good on you!
