Myths About Tanning

Every girl likes to have a tan. The glow makes skin look toner, giving you a stronger, healthy complexion. For advice on actually tanning, check out our Tanning How To Guide.

But now, since everyone has so many issues and concerns about actually going in the sun (or tanning salon) to tan, here are the biggest myths about tanning, and whether they a true or false!

“Indoor Tanning Doesn’t Cause Melanoma.”

Melanoma is skin cancer, in case you aren’t familiar with the term. Over the years, so much media has pointed its finger at indoor-tanning as a cause of melanoma, but it’s a blurry line.

Well, this myth is actually false. Why? There are so many factors that cause melanoma, that indoor-tanning is not the culprit. But, if you do have a genetic history of melanoma, avoid indoor tanning. The direct exposure does increase your chances, but it will not actually cause it.

 

But research does say that ultraviolet exposure increases your chances of melanoma; in fact, if indoor tanning beds are used consistently prior to age 35, your risk of melanoma increases by 75%. That’s huge.

 

The biggest cause of melanoma? UV exposure! So if you burn easily, are fair-skinned, freckle easily, or have a history of blistering sunburns as a child, then avoid UV exposure.

 

Which leads to….

 

“Outdoor Tanning Causes Skin Cancer.”

This is, without doubt, true. As we discussed earlier, UV exposure is the cause of melanoma, not indoor-tanning beds. Because of this, even outdoor tanning can lead to skin cancer.

 

Biggest tip? Wear sun-lotion (or use a fake tanner).

 

“Tanning Leads to Premature Skin Aging”

Well…this is true. The term is called photo-aging, which is that leathery, wrinkled look. It’s caused by long term exposure to ultraviolet light.

 

This happens due to UV radiation mutating the DNA in your skin cells; it speeds up the aging process of the cells, causing your skin to age quicker.

 

To prevent it, wear sunscreen, hats, avoid sun exposure between 10AM and 3PM, wear good clothing, and, oh yeah, SUNSCREEN!

 

“Sunlight Exposure is Necessary for Vitamin D Absorption”

Vitamin D is necessary for your health (bone, heart, breast), but the source can come from more than just the sun, making this myth false. In fact, you get the same amount of Vitamin D from supplement pills as you do from the sun.

 

You can also get Vitamin D from milk, cereal, yogurt, and orange juice; oh, and salmon, tuna, and mackerel. But, if you do live in a sunny enough area with good exposure, then just 5-20 minutes in the sunlight will give you a healthy dose.

Personally, I still have to take vitamins due to an absorption deficiency (hereditary osteoporosis is in my family, so I need to be careful). Check with a doctor and have them check your Vitamin D levels.

 

“All you need is Sunscreen.”

This is so false! Sunscreen is vital, true: it absorbs, reflects, and scatters harmful UVB and UVA rays. Use a sunscreen that is at least SPF 15 daily; but what it also depends on is your activity rate. If you swear, shower, or are in the sun more, increase the dosage.

 

Invest in sunglasses, hats, and light-weight sweaters to protect your skin.

 

 

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