Are tanning beds safe or harmful; what are their dangers?
We all like to have fun in the sun, right? But the sun is not all fun. And we have all heard someone say, "Look at that nice tan". But most people do not know that a tan is actually a defense mechanism. When exposed to UV rays (radiation), our bodies produce something called melanin. Melanin is the pigement in our skin that gives our skin its color. The more exposure to the sun we have, the more melanin our skin produces, and thats what gives us our dark tan. Over time, this causes premature aging of the skin and greatly increases our chances of skin cancer.
It's been known for many years now that UV rays increase the chances of skin cancer. What are the dangers of tanning?
UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds may cause skin cancer. According to the AAD (Amercican Academy of Dermatology) it was first believed that the skin had to be burned, but now they believe that sun tanning over time can do the same thing. Malignant Melanoma, one of the skin cancers believed to be linked to exposure to UV radiation, is usually fatal. UV radiation can also effect the immune system and they also cause premature aging of the skin (WRINKLES, AH!!)
Small amounts of sun, like the amount we are exposed to just walking to the mailbox, a walk around the block and at a picnic, is enough sun exposure to help our bodies produce Vitamin D, not the amount it takes to get tanned or burned. These harmful effects don't usually show up for years after the exposure.
The easiest way to protect yourself when going in the sun is to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or more. Use umbrellas and hats as well, when applicable. There's no reason you cannot still have fun outdoors. Try to avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10am and 3 or 4pm, when the sun is the strongest.
