Sunshine On Your Shoulders Keeps You Burning

Teenagers gearing up for prom using dangerous tainning options

(RxWiki News) High school girls are so adorable dressed up to the nines for prom with their beautiful tans.These teenage beauties are using a beast, however, to achieve quickie tans for the prom and summer.

Those tanning beds are just not safe for skin and may be part of the reason girls and young women ages 18 to 25 are the fastest growing group getting new diagnosis' of skin cancer.

"Always wear sun protection out doors and try tanning creams."

Julie Moore, MD, dermatologist at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital in Melrose Park recommends avoiding tanning beds. She said it is just like standing naked a few inches from the sun.

Moore continued that tanning beds are just as dangerous as sunbathing. Moore has some great Save Your Hide tips:

  • Ask beauty technicians during a pedicure or massage to examine for moles and skin lesions.
  • Diagram your mole placement on a "map" of your body and note any changes. Include comments about the size, shape and color.
  • Perform self checks after bathing and be sure to use a hand held mirror to view back, toes and bottoms of feet.
  • Evaluate moles using the A, B, C, D, and E method. A-Asymmetrical, B-Border, C-Color, D-Diameter and E-Evolving.
  • Use self-tanning creams and lotions to achieve a safe, natural glow.
Review Date: 
May 3, 2011