Spring is finally around the corner, and for many young women, that means memorable events like prom and spring break. It may be tempting to achieve a bronzed, “sun-kissed” look for occasions like these, and studies show women are more likely to use indoor tanning devices than men. We’ve known for a while however, that any young women considering indoor tanning should think twice.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a proven human carcinogen, and there has been plenty of research linking melanoma incidence in young women to tanning bed habits. Research shows just how closely the two are connected: one study observing 63 women diagnosed with melanoma before age 30 found that 61 of them (97 percent) had used tanning beds. Additionally, people do not need to use tanning beds frequently for them to pose a health threat. Individuals who first use an indoor tanning bed before the age of 35 increase their risk of melanoma by 75 percent.
“There is no such thing as a healthy UV tan. Whether you’re laying out on the beach or in a tanning bed, the damage your skin sustains can lead to skin aging and potentially deadly skin cancer,” says Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “It’s so important that young women avoid UV tanning beds and opt for a sun safe beauty routine.”
Tanning doesn’t only increase your risk of developing a melanoma— it increases your risk of developing other types of skin cancer as well. A single session causes a 67 percent increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and a 29 percent increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, but BCC and SCC are the two most common forms of cancer.
If an increased risk of skin cancer isn’t enough of a reason to steer clear, indoor tanning also contributes to premature skin aging. That means wrinkles, leathery skin, sagging and age spots. Still can’t resist that bronzed look? Opt for sunless self-tanners or spray tans. These are available in many forms, including lotions, sprays, and creams.
The Skin Cancer Foundation advocates that no tan is a safe tan, and that regardless of whether women decide to go with their own glow or use sunless tanning methods, they avoid UV tanning.
Tips for Properly Applying Sunless Tanner:
About The Skin Cancer Foundation
The Skin Cancer Foundation saves and improves lives by empowering people to take a proactive approach to daily sun protection and the early detection and treatment of skin cancer. The mission of the Foundation is to decrease the incidence of skin cancer through public and professional education and research. Since its inception in 1979, the Foundation has recommended following a complete sun protection regimen that includes seeking shade and covering up with clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses, in addition to daily sunscreen use. For more information, visit SkinCancer.org.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
