The number of skin cancers occurring in the population under 35 years old has risen sharply in the last few years.

Tanning is the process of browning the skin by exposure to sun. Each year, approximately 30 million Americans visit tanning salons to achieve a bronzed appearance that is considered to be attractive. This averages to about 1 million visits per day to tanning salons throughout the country. Although outdoor tanning is popular as well, indoor tanning provides a convenience that outdoor tanning does not. A 20-minute session in a tanning bed is equivalent to 4 hours outside. Many people also falsely assume that tanning beds do not carry the same risks as sun exposure. (more…)