Health Risks From Artificial Tanning

Getting a suntan tends to break down the DNA in skin cells; it dries and thins the skin, making it less pliable and able to heal. Women who frequent tanning salons more than once a month are 55% more likely to contract malignant melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer.

In addition to these hazards, many women have found that the harsh chemicals used to clean the tanning beds between patrons, mandated by many health departments, often cause skin irritations, itching, rashes, and even severe allergic reactions similar to poison ivy. Then there is the issue of cleanliness too, and who can honestly say how well employees clean the tanning beds between customers. Imagine the kind of germs lurking in perspiration residue. No thank you.

To avoid the tanning beds, many women have turned to the use of tanning lotions that temporarily tint the skin or the use of spray-on tanning pigments. Using these skin tanning agents causes no apparent damage to the skin. Products containing the chemical dihydroxyacetone (DHA) as the active ingredient are especially effective and appear to be safe for external use. DHA is a simple sugar derived from sugar cane which stains the skin darker when it interacts with dead surface cells. As the dead skin cells fall off, the color fades, and the tanning effect disappears within a week unless more lotion is applied. It is the only skin-tinting additive approved by the FDA and it will not photo-age the skin or cause cancer.

The National Cancer Institute reports that more than one million people are diagnosed in the United States every year with non-melanoma skin cancer, which is the most common type of cancer in the country. Among Americans who live to age 65, 40% to 50% of them will have this form of skin cancer at least once. The good news is that, if detected early, this cancer can be treated and prevented altogether by avoiding tanning by exposure to UV rays.

Long-term exposure to artificial and natural ultraviolet rays increases the risk of skin cancer. The best defense is to avoid exposure to UV rays from direct sunlight and tanning beds and booths altogether. Instead, use tanning salons that use sprays or skin-tinting lotions. Also, it is wise to consult a physician or dermatologist regularly for full body skin exams and perform a self-exam at least once every month. Look for any abnormalities such as bumps, lumps, or sores that don't heal, or moles that have changed in shape, size, color, or tenderness. Have someone check your back too. If caught early, skin cancer is now almost 100 percent curable. Providing quality skin care products and skincare treatment reviews online.