ITA Promotes Responsible Spring Break Tanning

As spring break approaches, The Indoor Tanning Association (ITA) is encouraging beachgoers to tan responsibly. While moderate exposure to UV light is necessary for good health, overexposure to UV light can be a dangerous byproduct of too much time in the sun.

In order for tanners to get all the benefits of UV light, such as vitamin D, without the negative effects of overexposure, such as sunburn, the ITA recommends knowing the seven following tips:

• Get a base tan. Going to an indoor tanning salon before spending lots of time in the sun enables vacationers to gradually increase their exposure to ultraviolet light without burning.
• Tan moderately. Getting a tan can be healthy, but overexposure is not. It is important for tanners to be conscious of how much exposure they are getting.
• Know your skin type. If you are someone who burns easily, take extra caution before spending too much time in the sun. If you visit a tanning salon to get a base tan, be sure to start out spending only a few minutes in a sunbed and gradually work up to longer sessions. Ultraviolet light from a sunbed is just like ultraviolet light from the sun. If you don’t tan outdoors, you will not tan indoors.
• Tan indoors. A good way to minimize the risk of contracting sunburn is to tan indoors where the beds are regulated by the FDA, professional staff can monitor how a particular skin-type responds to UV light and your body can benefit from an even tan without overexposing any one part.
• Know the effects of medication. Some medicines make certain people’s skin more sensitive to sun and UV exposure. I f you are taking any medications, do the necessary research to find out what, if any, side effects they might have on your skin.
• Use sunscreen. After getting your daily dose of vitamin D, make sure to use the appropriate protection to avoid any risk of overexposure.
• Use eyewear. You should wear protective eyewear any time your eyes are exposed to UV light—indoors or out.

“Everyone loves spring break, but no one loves sunburn,” says Sarah Longwell, communications director for the ITA. “We’re urging vacationers to take the necessary precautions before spending time in the sun. Simple measures like knowing one’s skin type, using eyewear and getting a base tan can go a long way to protect people from overexposure. While both UV light from the sun and from a tanning bed is proven to have many health benefits, it’s important to always tan in moderation.”