Tanning, whether it’s from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, has been trending as a way to improve your appearance.
However, this ignores serious health risks associated with UV exposure and can potentially lead to skin cancer and premature aging, which makes the practice very dangerous.
“I think that UV exposure can be bad, but okay in moderation. I am very sensitive to the sun, so I use lots of sunscreen and try to stay away from the sun as much as possible,” sophomore Paloma Tyler said.
One of the most serious consequences of constant tanning is the increased risk of skin cancer. UV damages the DNA in skin cells, which can lead to mutations and even cancers such as melanoma.
This demonstrates that even limited exposure to UV rays can have long-term consequences. It is commonly underestimated how dangerous tanning can be, especially with the practice being glamorized on social media.
Such as influencers encouraging viewers to use different tanning oils and lotions to get a darker complexion.
Even going to great lengths, such as ingesting or injecting peptides or gummies to boost melanin production.
“I don’t go to the beach that often. However, when I do go, I will lie in the sun casually; I don’t see a big problem with this,” junior Maritza Barrera said. However, I do know friends that will just use tanning oil and lie in the sun for hours with no sunscreen in hopes of getting lots of color, which could be damaging.”
Another major effect of tanning is premature aging. Sun exposure breaks down collagen, which helps keep skin smooth and firm.
As a result, frequent tanning can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and even dark spots.
Tanning can also cause immediate harm, such as sunburns and eye damage. Sunburns are a sign of skin injury, and repeated burns can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Despite these risks, many people continue to tan due to social media and beauty standards.
However, there are many safer alternatives, such as self-tanning products, to achieve similar results without the risks of skin damage.
Tanning poses serious risks, including skin cancer, premature aging, and immediate physical damage.
Although it can be attached to beauty, the harmful effects outweigh the temporary benefits. It is important to understand these dangers and choose safer alternatives.
“Tanning can be dangerous; however, I usually start by going outside and laying my towel down. Then, I apply tanning oil to my front side and tan for about an hour. After that, I’ll jump in the water or spray myself with something to cool down. Next, I put tanning oil on my back and tan for another hour. Then I switch back to my front for about 30 minutes, and then back to my back for another 30 minutes. I keep repeating this process until I feel like I’m tan enough,” junior Kate Becerra said.
