Pros and Cons of Tanning

According to an article by Jean Sanders, indoor tanning beds in salons today account for a $5 billion a year industry that just keeps on growing. The tanning industry continues to grow and expand as people continue to desire bronze and tanned bodies. But as people are attracted to and begin to follow the popular trend of tanning, do they ever consider both the cons and the pros of their decision? There are a few key arguments referring to the beneficial side of tanning. People of all ages can go tanning because it is inexpensive and convenient. How many tanning salons do you see while driving daily? My guess is quite a few. In addition, tanning makes you appear healthy and young. Conversely, there are many controversial and potentially dangerous effects of tanning. Tanning beds can "caus[e] burns, suppression of immune systems, damage to the cornea, cosmetic and drug-induced photo-sensitivity, and a higher risk of developing melanoma cancer". Also, there aren't any laws that govern the amount of use for indoor tanning. If a salon has rules, they created them themselves. Overall, people who are interested in tanning need to learn more about what they are exposing their body to in order to make a safe and educated choice.