Those who tan indoors just four times a year increase their risk of developing melanoma by 11 percent, according to a new study from skincancer.org. Over the last 40 years, melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, has increased at an alarming rate among young people, especially young girls. Now, more than ever, teen girls have been turning to tanning beds, despite the risk, to achieve a bronzed, sun-kissed look.

     Using tanning beds, or tanning outside for long amounts of time without sunscreen or other protection can lead to skin cancer. According to skincancer.org, about 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to UV radiation; 65% of melanoma cases are attributed to the same exposure. The topic of tanning dangers receives so much media attention because it is so preventable. Still, 2.3 million U.S. teens use tanning beds each year, choosing reward over risk. Why, in light of these facts, are girls taking the chances?

     Junior Jordan Vasquez goes to a tanning salon in Warrenton about once a week.  She said she goes because, “It’s relaxing and relieves stress.” 

     Junior Carly Karanovich goes occasionally during the fall and winter. “I get tan lines from my softball uniforms so I go to get rid of them,” she said, “I also feel more confident when I’m tan.”

     Senior Erika Tatro goes to a tanning salon in Warrenton about once a month in the winter and before events such as Prom and Homecoming.  She said, “[I go tanning for] something to do…I doubt that I would get skin cancer…”

   The fact of the matter is, one in 55 people will be diagnosed with melanoma during their lifetime, and tanning only increases the chances.  The dangers of tanning should be taken seriously and teenagers need to be educated. However, the last place to go for facts about the risk of tanning is the tanning salon itself. A report released in February revealed that tanning salons are not providing accurate information about the risks of tanning to their customers. According to the article on skincancer.org, “Nearly all salons denied the known risks of indoor tanning,” and “falsely claimed that indoor tanning is beneficial to a young person’s health.”

Tanning salons are in the business to make money.  Advertisements are aimed at young people and promises are made for healthy skin and glowing tans.  Palm Beach Tan, which is located in Gainesville, promotes the use of tanning beds on its website.  It says, “Indoor tanning is an intelligent way to minimize the risk of sunburn while maximizing the enjoyment and benefit of having a tan.” They also list that the four ways to have healthy skin are, “Protect yourself from the sun, don’t smoke, wash your skin gently, and moisturize regularly.” They do not mention the fact that UV tanners are 74 percent more likely to develop melanoma than those who have never tanned indoors.

Although getting a tan may seem like the cool, attractive thing to do, one should consider the risk before using a tanning bed. There are other sunless tanning options such as lotions and spray tans. The more educated teens are, the more they will be able to protect themselves.  Skincancer.org is vigilant about promoting and educating people about how to prevent or lower their risk of getting skin cancer.  For more information, visit their website, www.skincancer.org.  In the meantime, practice safe sun habits!