It’s not news that the sun’s rays can cause serious damage to our skin if we spend too much time outside. In fact, even a little sun can still cause damage, and even cause early wrinkles, fine lines and pigment spots. However, my East Coast plastic surgery practice can easily reverse minor skin damage with skin resurfacing techniques such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, and microdermabrasion. On the other hand, what it can’t reverse is malignant melanoma, otherwise known as skin cancer.
Skin cancer is a very common kind of cancer, with 120,000 new cases being diagnosed each year. Why is this cancer steadily growing? Part of the reason is due to the increasing popularity of tanning beds. Despite all the warnings on the dangers of these beds, people continue to slather on the tanning oil and fake bake until they are golden brown. Statistically, anyone under 30 who uses a tanning bed ten times a year, are eight times more likely to develop skin cancer. And since far more than ten sessions a year is usually the norm, you can imagine why skin cancer is becoming a major issue.
So why are people continuing to use tanning beds?
It is hard to believe people would continue this risky behavior after all the studies and warnings. But a new study may now be able to explain why tanning is still such a popular trend. According to recent studies, people who are utilizing tanning beds experience similar brain activity and blood flow that a person addicted to alcohol or drugs experiences. While tanning, a person’s brain experiences a neurological reward-and-reinforcement trigger. In short, the tanning bed causes an addicting feeling, with their reward being their newly browned skin. That rewarding feeling transfers to a need of maintaining the original reward. Therefore, a vicious cycle can easily start.
Before hopping into a tanning bed, even one time, think about the consequences. Not only is melanoma more of a risk, but that “one time” could turn into even more sessions. If you truly are in need of browned skin, consider utilizing the sun’s real rays along with a healthy dose of SPF 30 or more slathered on all of your skin. Also consider tanning creams or spray tans. They are plenty of other ways, much more conducive to your health, that will give you a gorgeous glow and not risk your life.
To your health and beauty,
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