Tanning salon, so harmful to the skin than the sun

American scientists and British discourage attendance at tanning salons. The lamps used in these rooms would not be safer than the sun's rays, they say. Latest published on the subject conclude that exposure to UV rays from sun lamps, is also harmful to the skin than sun exposure. UVA tanning salons also increase the risk of melanoma, responsible for 75% of deaths caused by skin cancer. Young people under 18 years - as well as people who have pale hair, eyes and sensitive skin - would be more affected by the harmful effects of UVA. "These data provide a further argument against tanning salons," said Dr. Peter Vignjevic, dermatologist for over ten years in Ontario. "There is no way to tan safely and the risks are even greater when exposed to ultraviolet light at a young age," he says. Each dose of ultraviolet radiation that we receive daily accumulates over time, the first 14 years of life is critical, "says the dermatologist. Lamps in tanning salons emit mainly UVA rays. They do not burn the skin, which is why these institutions declare safe. However, their intensity is two to five times higher than that of the sun's rays and penetrate deeper into the skin. UVA contributes to premature aging and damage to the skin and the appearance of melanoma, responsible for the majority of deaths from skin cancer. "When my patients ask me whether they should attend tanning salons, I reply in the same manner as if they asked me permission to smoke. The answer is no, even in small doses! "Exclaimed Dr. Vignjevic. And vitamin D? Tanning salons boast of exposure to sun lamps as a source of vitamin D. Several studies have shown that exposure to the sun, the main source of vitamin D protect against some cancers. Just a healthy diet and a moderate exposure to sunlight each day to get vitamin D, maintains Dr. Vignjevic. "The artificial tanning seems much more risky than a lack of vitamin D," he adds. An Ontario étude3 conducted by the Canadian Cancer Society has shown that many owners of tanning salons do not take into account the recommendations of Health Canada. Since 2005, they were advised to limit the attendance of young people under 18 years and inform users of potential dangers of tanning beds. The study results show that industry self-regulation of artificial tanning is not working. The Canadian provincial legislation seeks to regulate the artificial tanning industry.