This question is mostly for people of color, but I don't mind hearing from some white people. This question isn't meant to offend anyone of any race, so I'm sorry if I did.
2006-07-30 15:52:56 · 48 answers · asked by posture 3 in Beauty & Style ➔ Skin & Body
Everybody tans naturally when they go out into the sun, but for the people who put tanning lotions on themselves and go to tanning beds to make their skin darker, I think that's stupid. Tanning lotions and tanning beds are bad for the skin.
Tanning lotions contain the active chemical components dihydroxyacetone and various dyes. These chemicals sometimes cause irritation of the skin, with redness, itching and discomfort. Dihydroxyacetone is a ketone chemical which can be absorbed through the skin into the circulation. This could theoretically lead to effects throughout the body including fatigue, feeling unwell, or uneasiness. There is another chemical, called sodium metabisulfate, in some lotions, it can cause skin reactions, and you should keep it away from the eyes, eyelids, and any cuts in the skin.
Tanning salons (solariums) are a very controversial topic when it comes to skin cancer. They are popular because they offer a tan all year round. The industry claims their beds give off a safe form of UV radiation (UVA) which results in a tan but avoids skin burning effects of UVB. Right now there are not very many good studies that determine the carcinogenic effect of tanning beds, however research studies do show that UVA radiation causes premature skin aging and wrinkling. UVA is also assumed to be jointly responsible for the development of sunburn and skin cancer. Another problem with tanning salons is the fact that often the salon staff is not well trained in handling the tanning bed devices. Another important area that gets overlooked is regular maintenance and testing. Often customers are not aware of possible dangers and use tanning beds excessively.
2006-08-01 15:25:01 · answer #1 · answered by glow 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
I always tan... but I use High pressure/black lights, based on what they say it has less than 1% UV...
I love the darker color, 'cause it takes care of the darks spots that I have on my leg...
I try not to recommend it to everyone just because of the risks that it's known for....
While tanning in the sun I use an SPF 30 and sometimes 45 , but I just love the feeling of laying on the sand near the beach and hearing the sound of the waves.....!
2006-07-30 15:55:52 · answer #2 · answered by Sunny 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm a brown skinned African-American, and I tan too, not because I'm trying to, but because it's just what happens when I'm out in the sun for a while.
People who tan for the sake of tanning, to achieve a certain look, are putting themselves at risk. You shouldn't force your body to do something that it is going to do naturally, or, will not do based on the lack of genes or cells. Tanning Beds, Facilities, prolonged exposure to the sun should be avoided, and not used in a methodical way.
2006-07-31 16:47:39 · answer #3 · answered by Abstract 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I tan off and on, never much, but I think tanned people look nice, and healthy (even though it does cause skin cancer). It is a risk some people take (as with smoking). I don't like being pale white in the winter or for prom.
2006-07-30 15:55:55 · answer #4 · answered by Mandee 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I Tan! I am white as snow in the winter. And during the summer I go to a tanning booth, beach or just lay out, and I look hispanic.
I like it! A lot of people (who smoke) tell me not to because I will get skin cancer. I do not know if I will. I put lots of lotions on, take vitamins, and drink a lot of water. I read somewhere that beta carotene helps block sun damage if you take it before you go out in the sun.
2006-07-30 15:59:09 · answer #5 · answered by pixles 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think people who tan slightly look healthier. Those that look like baked fish look like they are trying to achieve a different complexion, possibly because they admire the skin of other races. Be true to yourself. Everyone knows a tan or if its natural.
2006-07-30 15:56:16 · answer #6 · answered by tyrawooley 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It was a status symbol for white people to tan back in the day..it was a symbol of money,leisure...etc.skin cancer was not so prevalent back then,personally I think a tan is what you want to make of it some people look good with a tan and others don`t..
2006-07-30 15:58:11 · answer #7 · answered by aminuts 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
tanning can seriously cause skin damage even if you only do it once a week. last year i went tanning twice a week for 8 min. i had this thing growing between my clevage. went to the dr. they said it was cancer forming , i stoped tanning it went away. not only that but you get age spots, they dont go away. natural tanning is better, tanning beds def not, if you live in the cold weather or if its cold , then warm, just tan with the weather condition
2006-07-30 15:58:48 · answer #8 · answered by lovesugarkisses 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I know I'm not, but I know for me my biggest reason to tan is it is a great big heating pad, and I have severe arthuritis so it feels great! If you have a job that tenses you up no matter what color you are, it would feel great. And no matter what color we are some things that feel good you should do.
2006-07-30 15:57:50 · answer #9 · answered by Merry P 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To each his own. Most people look better after a little sun. I look at tanning just like makeup, eyebrow arching, and hairstyling...a little enhancement adds to a polished look. Just don't get carried away. lol
As a Black woman I have a natural tan, and I'm thankful.
2006-07-30 15:57:59 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋