Summer Sun

Mercedes Medical is located in sunny Sarasota, FL. As summer is fast approaching the subject of tanning has been a topic of discussion. Is the cosmetic look of a tan worth the risk of UV damage to your skin? According to the Skin Care Foundation 63% of people say they are not more attracted to someone who is tan. For those of us who like the golden glow look there are a lot of alternative tanning methods. I have done the mystic (spray) tan. It looked great and lasted about 7 days. I have also tried moisturizing lotions that are supposed to gradually tan you. The lotions also worked, not as tan as I would like, but it did add a hint of color. I have not tried self tanners since I was in high school but hear the self tanners are much more advanced and do not leave you orange. Even with these options tanning is still on the rise, especially among young women.

If you are into technical explanations: “the sun's UV rays damage the DNA of the skin's epidermal cells, triggering enzymes that race to repair the damage. However, these enzymes do not always repair the DNA successfully, and all this unrepaired damage can lead to mutations that increase the risk of skin cancer. Also, repeated unprotected sun exposure can cause photoaging – wrinkles, sagging skin, and spots associated with sun damage.” (www.skincancer.org)

In layman's terms: use sunscreen, you may not be tan, but you will look younger longer!

Although the debate of tanning will not be solved in one blog I hope we have shed a little light - not UV rays onto the subject.

We would love to hear of some tanning alternatives or your feelings on tanning. Post away!