Lifetime damage can be done by your sun-related activities early in life.

The most common cancers in the United States (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) frequently affect those who have suffered a deep, painful, intense sunburn — particularly in adolescence and in the teenage years.  There is no such thing as A SAFE TAN.  Tanning in and of itself is a reflection of sun DAMAGE done by tanning in the sun or in a sun tanning booth.

Indoor tanning is no more safe than exposure to the direct sun.  In fact, indoor tanning in a salon may be up to 15 times more damaging than the sun (because of the UV radiation received).  A review from a large international research agency found that several worldwide studies have reported a 75% increase in the risk of melanoma to those who had exposure to tanning beds before age 35!

The only safe solution is the use of a self-tanning lotions or creams  which can give a healthy glow.  But remember that self-tanning products do NOT provide protection from the sun, so a broad spectrum sunscreen is still necessary.

Many people insist that tanned skin makes them look “thinner,” “healthier,” “more sexy.”   What sun exposure really will reflect in a person’s skin in later years are fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage and hyperpigmentation (sometimes called “age spots” or “liver spots”), and the possibility of cancerous lesions growing on the skin which must be surgically removed.

The important thing to remember is to limit direct sun exposure, and always, always, wear a broad spectrum sun protection even if you will be directly exposed to the sun for a few minutes.