Has your teen ever used a self-tanning booth?

[dizdelight]

I have very dark hair and eyes. My skin is vampire white. NOT a pretty sight in FL and I'm very self conscious about it. A few years ago I decided to do the tanning bed thing. After ONLY 3 SESSIONS I noticed cellular changes...moles had suddenly popped up on my body that weren't there before! I read up on this and it really frightened me. It's also advised that people with lots of moles prior to using tanning beds should avoid it at all costs. Went on to explain about cellular changes in moles which can quickly lead to cancer. Now I use self tanners or opt for a little of the real thing...hot FL sun. Never have noticed any cellular changes after doing this.

My daughter, ever fairer than I, went to tanning beds for several sessions. She has many, many moles and I "gently" cautioned her about this, but she's an adult and free to make her own decisions. Last month she had a mole removed by a dermatologist because it changed shape and would bleed uncontrollably for no apparent reason. She hasn't returned to the doctor for the outcome of the biopsy. Now I have to admit, this may have nothing to do with the fact she used a tanning bed, but it will always make me wonder. Oh, the things we put ourselves through!

 

[HappyMommy2]

No. There are just so many good alternatives these days--a good self tanner applied properly (or a professionally applied one, if you can afford the splurge) looks fabulous and will not result in ugly premature wrinkles, disfigurement, or death.

 

[Kallison]

After watching my DH get multiple melanomas cut out of his face with stitches, I would say you better convince your DD that pale skin is beautiful. Our generation of kids are going to have an extremely high rate of skin cancer. Also tanning causes premature aging.

 

[Dopey Sharon]

I would let her do the spray on tanning.

 

[SPAM]

i know ALOT of people at my school that use them. i, however, do not care. i have very fair skin and would burn anyway. i dont see y i would waste money on it. as i like to say "pale is the new tan" lol

 

[luvflorida]

"pale is the new tan"

Hahaha! I like that! I'll have to share that with my daughter!

After reading all of the replies to this post, I'm convinced I'm making the right decision by not allowing her to use a tanning booth. I bet if I show these replies to my DD14 she'll also decide that it might not be the best thing to do to her skin!