Written by: April Gammal

Question: I really love tanning during the summer and I will frequently go to the beach so that I can tan. It makes my skin look healthy, but I’ve also heard that it damages the skin. So, how much damage am I doing to my skin and should I cut back on how much I tan?

I hate to break it to you, but tanning is one of the worst things you can do for your skin. I know that a dark glow to your skin is considered beautiful and youthful and that many young adults go to the beach for the sole reason to tan, but I also know that these avid young tanners will pay for this “beauty” as they grow older.

Forget what the media leads you to believe about what is beautiful. Your skin tone is beautiful just the way it is – don’t ruin it or change it for anyone. So, my advice to you is to stop tanning all together and start protecting your skin.

No one wants to look old and wrinkly – at least I don’t think anyone does. Sun exposure is the fastest way to age your skin. It can lead not only to skin cancer, but also to pre-mature aging, wrinkles, age spots, and the proliferation of moles. According to an article published by the FDA, more than 10,000 people die every year die due to skin cancer.

Keep in mind that the darker your tan, the worse the skin damage. So, how can you protect your skin? Sunscreen. You should use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every day to protect against UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are simply the longer wavelengths, while UVB refer to shorter wavelengths.

Many moisturizers and foundations have sunscreen built into them. Just build it into your routine every morning to put on sunscreen before you go outside. It is important to realize that just because you do not burn does not mean that you are not damaging your skin.

All skin types are susceptible to skin damage. However, those individuals who have lighter skin are more susceptible to damage.

What if it is a cloudy day? Then you should still wear sunscreen because the rays from the sun are able to penetrate the clouds and affect your skin.

Also, note that lotions, creams, and vitamins will not rejuvenate damaged skin, and you can never undo the sun damage you have created after bathing in the sun for hours on the beach. This does not mean that you cannot go to the beach; it simply means that you should protect your skin while at the beach.

I hope this helps and that you will start taking care of your skin because you only have one chance to preserve its beauty and youthfulness.