The “bronzed skin” may look very sexy but is it worth risking your health for it? A sunbath or a tan (Please check http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanning & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_tanning) bed may make you look like a Greek god or goddess but it will also leave behind an ugly trail of damage to your body. Think before you plunge in for that precarious and momentary pleasure of a beautiful skin.

Before we discuss the harmful effects of tanning equipment and increased sun exposure, one must be familiar with the components of ultraviolet light and how it affects the skin. Sunlight contains two types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA and UVB. UVA rays consist of longer wavelengths that penetrate deep into the dermal layer of skin. Limited exposure to UVA rays causes skin to tan; however, most experts agree that overexposure to UVA can lead to other long-term skin damage. UVB rays wavelengths are much shorter, affecting the outermost layers of skin. UVB rays are known as the “burning rays” and are considered more dangerous. Tanning beds and sun lamps generally emit 93% to 99% UVA radiation. This is three times the UVA radiation given off by the sun.

Although tanning industries claim that UVA radiation is safe, medical research disproves this theory. Researchers say that because UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, they destroy skin fibers and damage elasticity. Long-term effects of UVA rays include premature aging and wrinkles. Scientists agree that UVA rays are less likely to cause burns, but that they are still linked to malignant melanoma, damage to the immune system, weakening of the skins inner tissue, and other types of skin cancers. In fact, studies show that large doses of UVA lead to an increased risk of developing skin cancer. In cases where exposure to light was increased, it was more likely that the damage would exceed the constructive, cellular-repair mechanisms, and a tumor would be more likely to develop.

Both types of UV radiation can cause damage to blood vessels, photosensitivity (allergic) reactions, or even eye damage. According to the CDC (centers for disease control), tanning beds create problems in the eyes such as conjunctivitis and corneal infections. Ultraviolet rays can cause serious damage to the cornea and retina.

The World Health Organization estimates that as many as 60,000 people each year die from too much ultraviolet light, mostly from malignant melanoma - the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Getting some sunshine is important because ultraviolet light spurs the body to produce vitamin D. But people need far less ultraviolet exposure for this than it takes to tan.

Youngsters are often allured into the idea of getting a tan to look glamorous. But the difference lies in the usage of tanning. For how long you tan and how often is what you have to control. And it is important to know your limits. It is different for different people and depends mainly on your skin type. For example, if you have a very fair skin that doesn’t tan, but rather burn, you should only go for very short tanning sessions and use a strong tanning lotion.

Next time, research properly and educate yourself thoroughly before going for a sunbath or to a tan saloon. This way you would be able to enjoy the experience and save yourself from long term harmful effects.