The much-coveted golden glow of the tan doesn't come without consequences. As it tans, your skin experiences a series of effects that can be damaging if not approached carefully. Tanning has benefits that go beyond appearances, though, and it can lower stress, reduce PMS symptoms and increase oxygen capacity of blood (according to DelfsFitness.com). When it comes to tanning and your skin, there are also benefits and dangers to consider.
Skin Protection and Cancer
Tanning provides natural protection against burning. As the skin darkens, protection against UVA /UVB rays increases. Overall, tanned skin is more effective than sunscreen in protecting you against cancer, as the pigment doesn't rub off or need to be reapplied. The key is in timing exposure so you can get all the benefits of tanning without the risks. People with fair skin should start tanning for no longer than ten minutes at a time and use sunscreen protection until a base tan is formed.
Excessive exposure to the sun can lead to the appearance of cancer, including both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (such as squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma). Not only can some of these forms be fatal, but they can also be disfiguring and metastasize if not caught early.
Treatments
Exposure to UV light can be used to treat a number of disorders, including skin problems such as psoriasis. UVB rays (which can be obtained from direct sun exposure but not from indoor tanning) can be a good alternative to the light therapy offered in dermatology offices. As the skin tans, the psoriasis is cleared. For best results, doctors often recommend ongoing tanning. This works best when used in combination with medications such as low-dose acitretin or oral retinoids.
Cosmetic Issues
While tanning provides a golden glow that is much sought after, it also leads to serious skin problems in the long run. Because overexposure to the sun leads to the breakdown of collagen, this leads to the skin losing its elasticity and aging faster. Skin dries up when it tans, making wrinkles more obvious and deeper-set. People with fair skin may not tan as easily and can instead burn. They can also develop freckles or skin discoloration (known as brown spots), which result from melatonin increasing at an uneven pace.
