Understand the Hazards of Tanning – Both Indoor and Outdoor

Skin cancer is on the rise in North America but are we hearing the warning signs being issued by health organizations? The warnings are everywhere about exposure to UVA and UVB whether that be directly from the sun or from using tanning beds and sun lamps. Hazards of tanning are real and should not be taken lightly. Some scientists have started to suggest that there may be a link between UVA radiation and malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin concern. The hazards of tanning will only continue to grow in the future. So what can you do to project yourself?

Some people are under the impression that indoor tanning is safe or at least safer than outdoor tanning. This is simply NOT TRUE. There are a number of medical articles written regarding indoor tanning beds and they conclude that this type of tanning can be linked to skin cancer period. Tanning bed bulbs give off UV rays exactly like to sun. Expose to these rays will not only damage your skins making them look and feel leathery, exposure can also cause skin cancer. Exposure to the sun or UVA rays from a tanning bed can also cause premature wrinkles, lines, crow’s feet and it can also damage your immune system.

Some studies have also shown that indoor tanning beds can give off 3 times more UVA radiation than the sun. That is why most tanning bed manufacturers recommend limited time use of a tanning bed. Long exposure in a bed can cause a serious skin burn. Therefore, if you do choose to use a tanning bed, limit your time to no more than 10 minutes each session.

So what are your options if you like a tanned, bronze body? There are safe alternatives to consider such as airbrush tanning. You simply strip down, enter a booth and get sprayed down with bronze coating that can last up to weeks. It is safe, easy and quick. To get good quality coverage, a commercial booth is recommended. For tanning at home, try tanning lotions. There are a number of excellent products available on the market that will give you a nice brown appearance. Again, it is safe, quick, convenient and inexpensive.

To prevent skin cancer, here are some easy to follow tips. Apply sunscreen to bare skin exposed to the sun. A minimum SPF of 30 is recommended. If you don’t like sunscreen, where long pants and long sleeved shirts when outside. We always recommend wearing a hat, especially if you have lost your hair or have thinning hair. We aren’t saying don’t go in the sun, just be sensible if you do so that you live a long, healthy life.