Generally tanning is known as the browning or bronzing of the skin as a result of exposure to sun rays. Although a suntan can occur naturally, people especially in the west usually opt for some artificial tanning techniques with an attempt to acquire that golden look. And the issue has gained much importance these days with the number of myths that are on a rise.
The Top 10 Tanning Myths
Myth #1: Protection is Unnecessary in Dull Weather
Often people strongly believe that dull weather such as cloudy days do not cause sun burn. In actuality, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds although partial protection is available. So if you are exposing yourself too much out in the sun better go for certain lotions that will prevent sun burn in order to lower your risk of skin cancer.
Myth #2: Tanning Beds are Better than Natural Suntan
This misconception has wider prevalence. Natural suntan and tanning beds are in no way different as both can cause sun burn and skin cancer. This belief exists because the UVA rays are used in tanning beds while the natural suntan is caused by the UVB rays. Though UVB is more dangerous, but you cannot definitely say that UVA is harmless. Both are harmful.
Myth #3: Tanning is Healthy
Nowadays many people suggest that tanning is good and healthy. And they firmly believe that tanning will provide them with a natural barricade which in turn, will protect them from sunburn and skin allergies. The fact is that tanning is nothing but darkening or browning of the skin, which can, in no way be beneficial. On the other hand, exposure to sun for 15 to 20 minutes daily will get you the required supply of vitamin D.
Myth #4: Sunburn is Necessary
People hold on to believe that sunburn is necessary. It is a false belief that when sunburn fades away and gradually disappears it’ll bring suntan. Actually sunburns can cause serious issues like freckles, blotches, skin aging and roughness. And this way it can cause immense skin damages.
Myth #5: Skin Cancer Doesn't Affect Men
Another general belief is that skin cancer is more of a women’s bug. But anyone, men and women alike, can develop skin cancer with too much of exposure to the sun. Again, heredity can also cause skin cancer. And rough or soft skin has nothing to do with either increasing or reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Myth #6: Hat Protects Sun Rays
Hats can only protect up to the SPF level of 3 to 5 and cannot entirely prevent the rays from penetrating your skin. Only sun lotions can offer protection against the direct exposure and can prevent damage to the skin. Sitting under trees or shades while wearing hat can do you some good. But guys, you need to keep in mind that you’ve got no trees on the beaches.
Myth #7: HIV/AIDS Spread Through Tanning Beds
Yet another shocking belief that prevails throughout is that tanning beds can spread diseases like HIV/AIDS. The virus cannot be transmitted in any other ways than blood or body fluids and that to, when injected. HIV does not survive in the atmosphere and water. So people should refrain from spreading this disheartening myth while keeping themselves panic-free.
Myth #8: Sunbath Affects Internal Organs
A common belief among many people's minds suggests that sunbath may "fry" the body's internal organs. This is practically impossible. If this has been a truth, then it could have applied to the farmers, who keep loitering in the fields under the scorching rays of the sun.
Myth #9: Melanoma Epidemic
Most people believe that tanning causes melanoma. There are no clear surveys which indicate that tanning causes melonoma. But excessive tanning and exposure to UV rays can cause melanoma and skin cancer. In the actual case, heredity plays a role and people with very fair skin and sun sensitivity are likely to develop it.
Myth #10: Little Cream Helps the Cause
On several occasions people complain about the ineffectiveness of their sun screens. It happens because they have not used sufficient amounts of the lotion. You need to apply the lotion in thicker layers. Don’t be too stingy in applying and it is not beneficial. Finally the most important thing is identifying your skin type and getting the right lotion.
Different people have different choices. Some people cry of suntan while some people die to get it. So it's not important how you look. What matters is the effect or rather the ill-effects that you may get after the process. The choice is with you.
