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Hello fellow cyber-space lovers!
Since summer is quickly approaching for those of us who
inhabit the Northern Hemisphere, a recent article in the Times about tanning
filled my mood for some dog day-type reading. Let me relate to you some of my
recent discoveries about tanning salons...
I was always hesitant to try tanning, as many of my friends would comment on how
vain someone becomes after relying on a tanning bed for their golden-brown
looks. Tanning salons had always been present, but I had never given them a
second look. Although I have been prone to burning in the sun, some
extra-strength SPF sunscreen has always delayed the process and made my summers
chock-full of outdoor activities, rather than leaving me with an unwanted burn.
My Mom had mentioned tanning before to my sister, with the idea that she could
obtain more of a natural colour in her prom dress. I thought tanning would be a
solution for my burning frequently in the summer -- since, when many people
begin to tan, it exterminates burning. Therefore, I signed up for a
monthly-unlimited pass at a nearby tanning salon, promising myself that this
would only be a test procedure rather than an everyday occurrence. I am aware of
the harmful affects that sun and tanning beds can have on your body with too
much exposure. However, with the bad always comes the good, and the sun can have
incontestable and healthy affects on your skin, as well.
You may detest tanning beds out of fear of bacteria, or "sitting in another's
filth" but I assure you that all trustworthy places clean and sterilize their
tanning beds after every time they are used. This is most likely a rule in every
tanning salons, ensuring that all customers are healthy and not at risk.
Editor's Note: This is, in fact, the law, at least in the U.S., and I'd
expect in most other countries as well. It is also promoted that you tan in
a pair of shorts, your bathing attire, or use a towel to cover yourself up. This
helps you to not tan or burn yourself in unwanted areas....
I am the not-so-proud owner of fair skin, so the first time I went tanning, I
began in the "beginner" bed. Unfortunately, my entire body burnt! For a few
days, I was in recovery -- which included much pain -- but I eventually got over
that experience. As of now, I am developing a slow tan, which is enough to stop
me from burning badly when I am exposed to the sun outdoors.
Exposure to the sun is a larger problem than we expected, and I would not
necessarily blame tanning salons themselves for causing skin cancer or skin
problems. Even on cloudy days, you are at risk, so many dermatologists suggest
that you always apply sunscreen whenever you go outside, even during the winter
months.
To tan or not to tan... that is the question. It all depends on personal
opinion, folks!
Natural Anthem,
-TIKE
Editor's Note: It all depends on if you're willing
to take a risk or two, too! Did you know that having just one sunburn will
increase your chances of getting skin cancer? Look it up and write an
article for the Times... then let us know which you choose, because the truth
is, whatever you do, *everything* is risky. Where do you draw the line?
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