Safe tanning

As summer holidays are approaching many people are thinking to visit indoor tanning salons just before exposing their bodies to the sun and the critical eyes of other bathers. But what amount of indoor tanning is safe? According to a recent article published in the latest issue of JAMA Pediatrics, none!

The author Megan A. Moreno, MD, MSEd, MPH explains: "since the intensity of the UV radiation produced by indoor tanning devices may be 10 to 15 times higher than the midday sun, in 2009, the World Health Organization classified UV radiation-emitting tanning devices such as tanning beds and tanning booths as Class I carcinogens—substances and behaviors that are most concerning for developing cancer. Other risks of indoor tanning include aging of the skin, with loss of skin smoothness, uniform color, and elasticity."

It was long believed that tanning before going to the beach offers a protection against sunburn and that indoor tanning is a healthy way to get vitamin D. However these are only myths and many organizations, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Dermatology, and World Health Organization, recommend that children and adolescents younger than 18 years should never be allowed to use indoor tanning devices. 

So the summer is here and you want to enjoy it! You don't need to be tanned to feel nice! Just take your hat, sunscreen and umbrella and lie down under the sun, always following the appropriate safety guidelines!