Does a Tan Increase Your Risk of Skin Cancer?

Why is a tan popular?

It’s hard to deny the irresistible charm of sun-kissed skin that speaks of travels and carefree days spent basking in the sun. But have you ever wondered how this trend came to be? Let’s take a journey back to 1923, when an accidental sunburn on the French Riviera sparked a revolution in the Western world, all thanks to the fashion icon, Coco Chanel.

Legend has it that Coco Chanel, known for her impeccable style and bold choices, unintentionally became the catalyst for the tanning craze. During a blissful yacht trip, she dozed off under the warm sun and woke up with a sunburn. Little did she know that this mishap would forever change the way we perceive tanned skin. As her sunburn healed, Coco Chanel returned from her voyage with a bronzed complexion, inadvertently introducing the Western world to the glamour and allure of the tan.

A Shift in Perception

Having a tan suddenly became a symbol of wealth, indicating one’s ability to travel and vacation on luxurious yachts. The concept of the tan took on an air of exclusivity and sophistication, and it remained that way for years to come. Advertisements followed suit; in 1927, a swimsuit advertisement depicted women fully covered on beaches, donning hats and carrying parasols. But by 1929, the same company showcased women splashing in swimsuits without any protective accessories.

The Dark Side of the Tan

The perils of excessive sun exposure, particularly the risk of skin cancer, began to emerge. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology revealed a startling increase in melanoma cases between 1950 and 2007, with a significant surge in the 1970s. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 186,000 new cases of melanoma were expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2023, with a 27 percent increase over the past decade.

The Wake-Up Call

With such alarming statistics, one might wonder why tanning remains popular despite the well-documented risks. The answer lies in human nature. Often, it takes a personal experience with skin cancer or a family diagnosis with the disease to awaken us to the importance of sun protection. It is a sobering reminder that the pursuit of a tan should not come at the cost of our health.

Embrace Sunless Options

Given the serious risks associated with excessive sun exposure, it’s high time we reevaluate our tanning habits. Tanning beds, in particular, should be banned, as the UVA rays responsible for tanning are the same ones that contribute to skin cancer. Instead, opt for sunless alternatives that can grant you a healthy glow without compromising your well-being. Consider using high SPF sunscreen (Factor 50) to protect your skin while still allowing a gradual tan to develop over time. Alternatively, explore the world of fake tans, with options like Tan Luxe gradual drops and Bare by vogue, which can give you that sun-kissed look without the harmful effects.

Conclusion

The tan, birthed from an accidental sunburn on a yacht in 1923, forever changed the fashion landscape. But at the expense of our health as the harmful radiation of the sun causes visible damage to our skin. It is best to keep out of the sunshine, wear factor 50, and if you’re looking for a safe bronzed glow – stick to the fake tans.

If you have noticed any changes to your skin, then it is important to get them checked by a GP or your dermatologist – particularly changes in size, shape or colour of moles should be reviewed. Here’s a handy guide, and if you would like an appointment with one of our dermatologists- contact us here.

Good skin days, always.

Helen

Co-founder

No. 23 Skin

02039411815