Tanning Under Attack

[Editor-in-Chief]

Tanning under attack

Autumn MacDONALD/Free Press Manager of Art of Tanning Elisha Flynn says there are some health benefits to tanning, including the absorption of vitamin D.


Jul 29 2005
The Canadian Cancer Society is leveling heavy criticism at tanning solons and is speaking out in favour of an 18 year age restriction on the use of tanning beds.
Just like overexposure to sunlight, tanning lights can cause sunburns, premature aging of the skin and cataracts, a recent report by the society said. Research has shown that people who use tanning devices are 1.5 to 2.5 times more likely to develop skin cancer than people who don't.
"There is no reason to go out of your way to get a tan," Canadian Cancer Society CEO for B.C. and the Yukon Barbara Kaminski said. "We recommend that everyone, including youth, avoid using tanning beds."
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Canada, representing one-third of all new cancer cases. The number of cases of skin cancer being diagnosed in Canada has risen 30 per cent in the last decade, meaning approximately one in seven Canadians born today will develop the disease in their lifetime, she said.
Although Canada's rate is still low compared to sunny countries like Australia, Kaminski said, the increase is alarming.
"It could have to do the increase in the tanning trend. [But] it could also have to do with the decreasing ozone layer," Kaminski said.
Either way Canadians need to protect themselves by avoiding unnecessary exposure to ultraviolet light, she said.
"Sometimes people think all you have to do is put on sunscreen and they are going to be 100 per cent protected. That is just not the case," Kaminsky said. "The best way is to reduce your exposure by wearing hats, shirts with long sleeves and so on."
Elisha Flynn, manager of Art of Tanning in Prince George, said there is alternate research which shows health benefits to tanning including absorption of vitamin D, improving acne and other skin conditions, and the feeling of well being that comes with it. Tanning can be safe when done responsibly and supervised by trained professionals, she added.
"Every employee at Art of Tanning is Smart Tan certified. We ensure our staff are all trained to use the equipment we have here," Flynn said.
Flynn said they work with clients to educate them about the risks of tanning and help them chose their right levels of exposure.
"As an industry we are getting a lot more educated about tanning," she added. Steve Gilroy, director of Smart Tan Canada, said the American Cancer Society is rethinking their criticism of tanning because vitamin D can be beneficial in combatting other forms of cancer.


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