Soaking up the Sun; Your Tanning Options

If you love soaking up the sun on your balcony, poolside, or even on a tropical beachside, then you are well aware of some risks and benefits of being exposed to the natural sun rays. We know sunlight is important to our health because of the role it plays in different body processes. Our primary source of vitamin D is from the Ultra Violet (UV) rays of the sun. This vitamin helps the body by regulating bone density, and without it, an individual may develop osteoporosis. UV light from the sun is also said to decrease blood pressure and inflammation. 

However, sun exposure has its negative effects as well. Too much UV exposure can cause one major problem: cancer. It can also lead to wrinkles, skin thinning, and autoimmune diseases, such as lupus. 

Regardless of the negative effects, tanning, through exposure to the sun, is one practice that remains a popular, voluntary activity. Though it has no actual health benefits, people usually associate a tan look with being healthy rather than being pale. A study from Emory University revealed that having a tan made a person feel sexier. Clearly, tanning boosts confidence and is perceived as socially desirable. 

In America, over 10 million people use indoor tanning methods such as tanning lamps or tanning beds. They have also even used risky methods such as tanning injections, which gives a tanned effect by mimicking the hormone melanin in the body. The use of these injections are subject to regulation.

Another less popular option is solarium tanning. It involves lying in an enclosure surrounded by UV light. It produces a cosmetic tanning effect. Use of UV light in this way is actually recommended for some conditions such as acne. Persons can get Solarium Tanning at some indoor facilities like this one in Georgia.

One of the major benefits of tanning in this way is because it allows for tanning in a controlled environment. Unlike being out in the sunshine, subject to the uncontrollable rays of the sun, with solarium tanning you get to regulate the UV rays you are exposed to. You avoid the risk of sunburn. Persons interested in this type of treatment should take some precautions. It is not recommended for persons under the age of 16 and requires protection for the eyes. Protective goggles are recommended. Other sensitive body parts should asl be protected like your hair. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid this treatment and each treatment should not last more than 20 minutes. It is clear that the practice is not without risks. Some people may prefer alternatives. Actually, in the UK, self-tanners are quite popular, including lotions, milks and mousses. London-based dermatologist Justine Kluk says the option of using tanning beds should be banned. 

Regardless of the tanning option you choose, be sure to take precautions that your benefits are outweighing your risks associated with exposure.