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There's no doubt about it: Tanning--and any kind of long-term sun exposure--can increase your chances of developing skin cancer.
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A million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States. This year, about 10,000 people will die from it in the United States alone.
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Most skin cancer was caused by sun damage acquired before the age of 20.
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Skin cancer develops when skin cells mutate, grow out of control and overwhelm healthier cells. It comes in two forms--melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanomas are much more likely to be fatal, but both can be confused with harmless moles and other discoloration.
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The American Cancer Society recommends that you check your own skin about once a month, keeping an eye out for changes. In particular, look for marks that are asymmetrical, have uneven borders or different colors or are larger than a pencil eraser. People with a family history of skin cancer should visit a dermatologist every year or so.
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About 80 percent of skin cancers could have been prevented with simple protective measures. Doctors recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15 that protects against both the UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays of the sun. Avoiding peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), wearing tightly woven clothing and wide-brimmed hats and staying in the shade can also make a difference.
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Although people with fair skin are more likely to get sun damage, all skin colors are susceptible.
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Neither sun lamps nor tanning booths are safe for your skin, and neither will make your skin more resistant to the effects of real sunlight. Any change at all to your skin's color indicates some sun damage.
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