Dying for a tan?
Pop videos, posters, TV programmes and the internet are plastered with images of tanned celebrities.
Because of this, lots of people see being tanned as an attractive, healthy look, but having a tan is actually a sign that the skin has been damaged.
Exposure to the sun, especially when it results in sunburn, can cause skin cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK and young people are more at risk of developing it than adults. It’s caused by overexposure to harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun or sunbeds and over 2,500 people die from it each year.
Exposure to the sun, especially when it results in sunburn, can cause skin cancer.
The good news is that nearly all skin cancer is preventable and being sun aware will reduce your risk.
Did you know that when you’re in the sun you should always...
- Wear sunscreen of factor 15 or higher and apply it regularly
- Wear loose clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and good quality sunglasses
- Spend time in the shade during the hottest part of the day - 11am and 3pm
Did you know you should avoid using a sunbed if...
- You’re under 18 years of age – it’s actually against the law to use a sunbed if you are under the age of 16
- You have fair or freckly skin
- You burn easily
- You have lots of moles
- You or anyone in your family has had skin cancer
Looking good?
As well as the affects to your health, any exposure you’ve had to the sun or sunbeds can damage your looks, making your skin have a leathery appearance and making you look much older than you are.
Faking it!
If you still want to look tanned, the only way to have a safe tan is to fake it. There are loads of fake tan products on the market today so find one that suits you.
Don’t die for a tan…
For more information about staying safe in the sun, getting a fake tan and reducing your risk of skin cancer visit: www.sunsmart.org.uk