"Sun kissed skin" is not so hot anymore

The popularity of indoor tanning is rising as quickly as it is being prohibited in certain states like California. On October 9, 2011 California governor Jerry Brown signed a bill prohibiting minors from using tanning beds. While it may not seem like much of a problem because the term "minor" represents children ages 17 and under, many frequent tanners fall into that age category. It has become a lifestyle for some, others an addiction. The governor feels that by passing this bill, it will encourage non-tanners to never start and those currently tanning to stop. Although lying in a tanning bed does not directly give you cancer, it certainly can become a leading cause for it. It has been proven that the rays used in tanning beds are made to penetrate the skin deeper than typical rays of the sun which will cause more damage. Skin cancer does have many possible factors contributing to the cause such as genetics and blistering sun burns, but tanning beds are ones you can avoid. By putting yourself in a tanning bed, you are willingly increasing your risk of having skin cancer. California feels that by implementing this law, it will help make regular tanners more aware of the consequences. 

The author appears to agree with the law as she includes information about skin cancer and all the negative affects of tanning. She does admit though while the law does not allow indoor tanning, there is nothing preventing teens from tanning outside or using baby oil rather than sunblock. It also does not prevent tanning lotion, which is a much safer alternative. She also admits to the fact that tanning beds do not directly cause cancer, which is true, but she still warns current users of the harmful effects. Personally, I think that tanning beds are extremely dangerous and I would never use one. I would much rather tan naturally or use lotion than risking my life simply to look a little bit darker than others. To me, tanning is not that important but some people easily become addicted to it. Doctors have gone so far to call the addiction, "tanorexic." While tanning comes as enjoyment to some, others want nothing to do with it and would rather use sunblock than increase a chance of death. I do agree with the author and the state of California and hope that this law will start a trend across the nation to help prevent indoor tanning and promote a healthier lifestyle. 

Should Teens be Prohibited from Tanning?

http://life.salon.com/2011/10/10/should_teens_be_prohibited_from_tanning/