Burning desire for a tan

[AB Asks]

Experts have warned the risk of developing skin cancer has trebled over the last ten years due to the people's burning desire for sun kissed skin. The emergence of super-powerful sunbeds means getting the perfect tan is easily done. Extra strong sunlamps used in many sunbeds emit as much as three times the harmful UV rays as sunbeds did ten years ago. Studies show that using sunbeds as a teenager can radically increase the risk of skin cancer.

What do you think about sunbeds generally? Should there be laws preventing under-18s using them? Or should be it completely up to the individual as to whether or not they use them regardless of the lethal consequences?

[Le Chat]

Just a word to the wise. I owned a sunbed salon in the 80's and although I used them, I always covered my face. I also have darkish skin, so am not in the high risk category. I am now 42 and look 32.
Another customer - same age as me used the sunbed regulary, exposing her face each time. I warned her about using it too much but she continued. Fast forward 20 yrs and I saw her serving in a shop - rather, she recognised me. She looked 52, with crepy eyelids and leathery skin. YUK!
The verb "to tan" actually means "to turn into leather". Pleased be warned.

[Madgirl2]

There are some really good fake tans out there. If only someone could invent one which doesn't smell so bl00dy awful!!!

[dot.hawkes]

The one Lancome do is really good I have to say, it is a foam and non perfumed and doesn't streak or stain. Very popular .

[~ vortex ~]

Why is this question top of the list when it was posted at 10:14am and later questions appear below it?

[whiffey]

When you post a question, there is a tick-box at the bottom-left of the screen marked "Sticky?". Check this box and you will get a dropdown list asking you for how many responses you wish your question to be 'sticky' - i.e. remain at the top of the listings. It may possibly be available only to Platinum members, but I am surprised that there is so much narking about it, I've had it since last July.

[dot.hawkes]

whiffey is correct, I am currently using the AB music download option in another window but i keep refreshing to see what is afoot. They have the new Doris Day collection by the way, and it is free to download to platinum abers whiffey

[Carakeel]

I have to answer that I do think there should be an age limit, simply because we need to make sure that those who use sun beds are of an age where they fully understand the possible consequences. When I was a child of 6 my parents took me to Spain for the first time. Being ignorant of the dangers of sitting out in the midday sun, I ended up in hospital on day 2 of our holiday, burned very badly with blisters the size of saucers all over my body. A few years later I discovered a mole on my back, which was then removed. However, it had been a melanoma and remaining cancerous cells nobody knew about then spread. I found myself facing first bone cancer then multiple cancer in my 30s. So, when I hear people saying they are more afraid of binge drinking than skin cancer, I cringe. Binge drinking is a terrible danger, but so is too much exposure to these harmful UV rays. So please, realise just how precious your lives are. Being pale is not a terrible thing, in fact it can make your skin look far younger than if you have a tan. It can also prolong your life! Sadly too many people only realise the value of this life when they are in the process of losing it.

[bardotagogo]

Some people on here seem to think a melanoma can be removed without any fuss, if caught early.
I've seen several melanomas and the scar that they leave when removed can be really deep...as if a whole wedge has been taken out of the body. Some people on here seem to think that just a small melanoma can be removed and their skin will still look attractive, as if just a tiny skin tag has been removed. If a melanoma is removed then a large amount of flesh will need to be removed, and even perhaps some lymph glands too, to ensure it won't spread.

[BBWCHATT]

They apparently think we are too stupid to know they are being paid for this survey question :)


Can someone tell me about "Platinum AB" - I didn't know there were any options - I thought it was all free to everyone - is it just for people in the UK? I am not interested in paying for it - but I am just curious as usual :)

BBWCHATT
The old lady in Chattanooga, TN, USA

[Champagne]

I love Doris Day Dot! May have to download some myself.

I only noticed I turned platinum after Christmas. Don't know how long I'd been platinum 'cos I don't get AB emails anymore. :o(

I'm not sure what you have to do to get it, BBWCHATT. It may just be at ABED's discretion. A bit like naughty children not getting presents from Santa...

[dot.hawkes]

found this in the New Scientist mag (this weeks)
http://www.newscientist.com/channel/health/can cer/mg19325894.700-sunseeking-immune-cells-ris e-up-to-fight-skin-cancer.html