Tanning Bed Hysteria| Are They Really That Bad?

The winter months even here in Southern California can tempt many to take a trip to the tanning salon to maintain tanned skin. According to recent Fox news story both the FDA as well as the World Health Organization considers tanning beds to be a carcinogen. California has banned the use of tanning beds for people under the age of 18. This has been the combination of a long and powerful push by medical doctors and other health officials who cited numerous studies that proved the increased incidence of skin cancer for people who regularly used tanning beds. With the ban in full effect the tanning salon industry has begun to fight back. The group is lobbying for the tan van for minors to be repealed in California. Recently a group of about 1400 salon owners across the nation band together creating a group they called the American Suntanning Association. Its goal is to convince the public that the risk associated with indoor tanning have been largely exaggerated. It Blames the American Academy of Dermatology for raising what they call hysteria. According to the ASA they are pushing for what they call a higher level of discussion surrounded around the risks versus the benefits of indoor tanning. Dr. Kim shares with his patients that tanning whether indoor outdoor is harmful to the skin. It clearly contributes to premature aging and for many patients the damage can be irreversible. Patients who tan excessively can expect to see premature lines and wrinkles on the face including around the eyes. The texture of their skin is likely to be hard and rough. Patients who are considering procedures like a facelift or blepharoplasty have to consider skin damage from tanning when assessing the expected results following their cosmetic surgery procedure. It is advised that patients where the appropriate level of sunscreen daily to prevent sun damage. There is no amount of suntanning that is recommended or considered safe for patients. Patients who are considering facial rejuvenation procedures are encouraged to contact Dr. Kims office and schedule a consultation to see which procedures are best for them.