Get the Facts About the Dark Side of Tanning
The next time you decide to join the tanning fad for a darker complexion, consider this: While tanned skin may improve your youthful glow, it is far from healthy.
According to the World Health Organization, indoor tanning devices belong in the same cancer-causing category as tobacco. Studies show a 75 percent increase in a person's risk of skin cancer when they're exposed to UV radiation from tanning beds -- and there are more than one million Americans tanning on any given day.
"Despite the widespread appeal of tanning salons among men and women, tanned skin is actually a sign of skin cells responding to trauma from UV damage," explains Myron Jacobson, Dean, College of Pharmacy University of North Texas Health Science Center. "In addition to raising your risk of malignant melanoma, tanning also ages you prematurely."
The "youthful" glow of tanning is short term, eventually leading to a breakdown of collagen that causes wrinkles, sun spots and an overall loss of elasticity. Skin experts say sun damage is the number-one ager due to discoloration and uneven skin tone. However, there are products on the market that help repair sun damage from UV rays by evening out your skin for a glow that is healthy.
"StriVectin-EV Get Even products, both the serum and new Get Even Spot Repair, combine natural ingredients like willow bark, vitamin C and licorice with a unique, patented form of niacin for the most even supply of pigment, skin repair and anti-aging effects," says Jacobson.
Besides tanning beds, daily sun exposure can also increase your likelihood of developing skin cancers. Protect your skin and your youth by following these skin-care tips:
* Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 year-round. During summer or extreme sun, reapply at least every two hours.
* Remember you're still vulnerable to UV rays during cloudy, overcast days.
* For prolonged sun exposure, wear a wide-brimmed hat to cover your neck, ears and face.
* Find some shade when the strength of UV radiation is highest, approximately from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.