When summer hits, everyone flocks outside to enjoy the warm weather. Common summer activities that people enjoy include swimming, fishing, boating, hiking... and tanning. Many people want to get that "perfect" summer tan in order to look attractive for the summer and do so through means such as tanning beds and laying out in the sun. Although some may believe that indoor tanning is safer than outdoor tanning, or vice versa, the truth is that both methods are dangerous.

Tanning poses many health risks and side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Tanning can cause premature skin aging, such as wrinkles, and skin cancer. Melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer, is thought to be caused by exposure to UV rays and sunlight 90% of the time. By sitting out in the sun or laying in a tanning bed, you are heavily increasing your chance of getting skin cancer or wrinkles prematurely. Is that really worth it just to have that summer tan?

It is commonly thought that the appearance of being tan looks healthier than being pale and makes one have a "healthy glow." However, skin darkening as the resulting the of tanning is exactly the opposite of healthy. When a person gets a tan, it means that their skin's DNA is damaged, and the skin darkens due to a mutation in order to help prevent further damage, which isn't the case. Any kind of tan increases your risk of skin cancer; a "base tan" doesn't decrease the harmful effects of the sun on your skin.

There are no benefits to tanning in order to get the "perfect" summer skin tone. The idea that being tan is attractive is just a social construct; you can be attractive no matter what your skin color is. There is nothing wrong with being pale, even though society may say otherwise. It's better to be safer and stay out of the sun rather than to risk your health just to obtain a tan.

It's healthy and beneficial to spend time outside, so there is no reason to avoid being outdoors completely during the summer in order to avoid the summer. Just take some preventative measures while having fun in the sun, such as wearing sunscreen, a hat, and taking breaks in the shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m.- 4 p.m.). It's also important to see a dermatologist to check on your skin, especially if you notice any unusual changes in a mole or new marks on your skin.

By purposely exposing yourself to UV rays, whether it be laying outside all day or using tanning beds, you are knowingly increasing your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Not everyone will get skin cancer or wrinkles from tanning, but it's important to avoid doing so because the risk is so high. You don't want to be told you have to get a strange mole removed, whether it's further down the line or even within the next year, and hear the news that it's cancer. Your health is infinitely more important than your physical appearance during the summer. It doesn't matter whether you are naturally lighter or darker in skin color, as skin cancer can affect anyone. Make a conscious effort to be careful in the sun this summer, and don't risk your health for the perfect summer tan.