Our recent abundant rainfall and fewer days with sunshine may tempt some people to use tanning beds or lamps. Unfortunately, use of these devices, like exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, leads to premature aging of the skin and increases the risk of developing skin cancer. A recent study of white women students at Indiana University found that while almost 80 percent did not believe that indoor tanning is safe or any safer than outdoor tanning about seven out of 10 said they like to get a tan even though they know tanning may harm their skin. Nearly 84 percent said tanning makes them feel more attractive.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IRAC), part of the World Health Organization, added UV emitting tanning beds and lamps to the list of the most dangerous forms of cancer causing radiation. The IARC report cited research showing that tanning is especially hazardous to young people; those who use sunbeds before age 30 increase their lifetime risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, by 75 percent.
The bottom line is avoiding exposure to UV Radiation from the sun or tanning devices will help to make your skin look younger and healthier!
