The Many Risks of Indoor Tanning

May 3rd, 2017

A Pittsburgh winter can make anyone desperate for a little sun. But people who are using indoor tanning are putting themselves at a higher risk for cancer and other skin problems, according to Laura Ferris, MD, PhD (Dermatology), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Dr. Ferris says no amount of indoor tanning is safe and that “every time someone tans, his/her DNA is exposed to something that causes cancer.” Other risks of tanning include wrinkles, pigment changes, and skin discoloration. She advises that the safest ways to tan are by using spray-on tans and self-tanning creams and always recommends the use of a broad spectrum sun screen with an SPF of 30 or higher when in the sun.