Faux-tan teens, your day in the (fake) sun may be over. Lawmakers in 18 states are following California’s lead and proposing that tanning beds be banned for all teenagers. The reason? The National Cancer Institute reports that exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of melanoma, especially at an early age. One particular proposal from the state of Idaho would even make it a misdemeanor for anyone under 18 to fake and bake, unless a doctor says it’s OK (good luck there)!
If you’re drawn to the tanning bed, consider the more important health issue here: Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for Americans age 15 to 29, and worse, anyone who fake-tans before age 25 has a 75 percent increase in risk. Repeat: Not worth it. Opt for a spray-on tan or embrace your skin as it is!
