Getting a tan might feel like a summer win, but it’s not as harmless as it looks. Too much sun can lead to wrinkles, sunburns, and even skin cancer.
Mrs. Lori Molnar, a RCMS PE teacher, notes a dangerous effect.
“The younger you start tanning then the higher percent risk of getting skin cancer,” said Mrs. Molnar.
Skin Cancer Foundation backs this information up.
“People who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent,” writes Ali Venosa from Sun & Skin News.
From beach days to backyard naps, tanning has become a go-to beauty booster for many teens.
Ella Cuyler, 13, a seventh grader on the Legacy team, tans weekly.
“I tan because I think I look better when I’m not pale,” she says.
Ella has experienced a downside to tanning.
“The first time I tanned I got super red,” she says.
Other students report turning red or getting burned. While the glow may be temporary, the damage, like sunburns, early wrinkles, and even skin cancer, can last much longer.
Another trending reason teens like to tan is because of the comfort. RCMS students have said the comfort of laying under the sun is peaceful.
Emma Godinez, 13, a seventh grader on the Majestic team, prefers tanning for comfort.
“The sun feels kinda like a warm blanket,” she says.
Even though tanning has its risks, many teens say they try to protect themselves.
Emma uses some precautions when she tans once or twice a week.
“I put on sunscreen and drink water,” she said.
Amy Quach, 13, a seventh grader on the Dream Team, has also experienced something similar.
“I don’t get burnt because I use protection,” she says.
Mrs. Molnar has said some crucial tips for her students to stay safe.
“I feel like I want students to be outside and enjoy summer, however I do believe they need to wear sunscreen. I am not opposed as long as they reapply,” she said.
Mrs. Molnar also said a very helpful remedy to treat damages.
“Aloe helps after you get burnt,” she says.
