1.Tanning Beds are NOT safer than the sun
Over 1 million people use tanning beds in the U. S every single day, and approximately 71% of tanning salon patrons are girls and women aged 16–29.Very few young adults are aware that tanning beds are NOT safer than the sun. Over the past many years, the CDA alongside other organizations have lobbied for a ban on tanning bed usage by minors. Currently, every province in Canada (and two out of three territories) prohibits the use of tanning equipment by individuals under the age of 18 or 19. Many states in the U.S have banned tanning for anyone under age, and many countries around the world have done the same.
2. Tanning beds have been known to cause serious injuries
In Emergency Rooms across North America, many people have been treated for eye injuries, loss of consciousness, and for burns.
3. Getting a base tan does NOT prevent sunburn
It is a myth that “having a base” prevents skin from burning. You can ALWAYS burn, and every time you tan or burn, you are doing damage to your DNA. The more damage done increases your chances of skin cancer immensely.
4. Tanning – indoors or from sun – makes your skin age more quickly
All tanning is created equally when it comes to causing wrinkles & leathery skin.
5. You can get addicted to tanning
Studies have shown that around 20% of 18-30 year old women who use indoor tanning show signs of addiction. They have said to feel fidgety or depressed if they don’t get a steady dose of UV rays. Many studies have linked indoor tanning by teenagers with other risk behaviors, such as binge drinking, unhealthy dieting, and sexual activity.
6. Tanning does NOT eliminate stretch marks
Many believe that tanning helps eradicate stretch marks. In fact, tanning beds make them more noticeable.
7. Getting enough Vitamin D from tanning beds is NOT possible
The bulbs used in tanning beds emit mostly UVA light. Your body needs UVB light to produce Vitamin D. Dermatologists recommend a healthy diet to safely get Vitamin D. If you’re still not getting enough, an oral or Topically applied supplement is also safe.
8. It is a myth that tanning beds safely treat acne
There are people that use tanning beds to help get rid of their acne or to improve their skin complexion. While this can very temporarily help alleviate acne, with all the damage it can cause to your skin, why take the risk? There are many safer options for treating acne, including topicals, oral medication, and even Blu-U light therapy.
9. The risk of melanoma is 75% higher for people who start tanning indoors before age 35
Melanoma is the deadliest skin cancer. Quitting (or NEVER starting) tanning can help you live longer. It’s never too late to start protecting your skin.
10. SHOCKING!!!! – The number of skin cancer cases from tanning (indoor/outdoor) is higher than the number of lung cancer cases due to smoking
While tanned skin has not always been in style, since the industrialization of the workforce in the West, tanned skin has been increasingly seen as attractive, healthy, and fashionable. There are many trusted sources that clearly link Tanning to Cancer. Doesn’t this make you think twice about what health looks like?
Sources:
American Academy of Dermatology Association
Canadian Dermatology Association
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