The benefits of tanning

[uv4me]

Date published: 6/5/2007
BY STEPHANIE BOSCOVITCH

Summer is approaching, which means it's time to buy your sunscreen--unless you're like me. I love to "fake and bake."
Tanning outside is always fun, but you can never seem to achieve an even tan. Personally, my tans always turn to burn or fade away within a few days. Being involved in cheerleading and singing, I always find myself performing for a crowd, so being "pasty" isn't an option.
When I first started indoor tanning, I was a little hesitant. A lot of my friends told me not to go and that I was going to get cancer. However, I began to notice how popular indoor tanning is. People of all ages were coming and going at the salon. I was even shocked at how many men seem to enjoy tanning booths. Tanning beds may have risks, but it seems that a lot of people choose to ignore them.
There are many reasons to go indoor-tanning. For example, you don't ever get tan lines like you would from a day at the beach. Also, you get a nice tan in a shorter amount of time. Plus, your tan is more likely to be a bronze tone instead of the blotchy red color you might achieve from tanning outdoors.
I believe, from my own experience, that by using a tanning bed, you can gain a base tan that will help prevent sunburn when outdoors. And surprisingly, indoor and outdoor tanning both stimulate production of vitamin D, due to the radiation from UVA and UVB rays.
I find that tanning, indoors or outdoors, is very relaxing. Based on the physical aspects of tanning, it definitely gives most people a boost of confidence.
Tanning salons offer a variety of choices, such as the type of tanning bed and the option to control the amount of time you wish to tan. But there are also the drugstore options, such as spray-on or body lotions.
Some may say tanning is not safe, but everyone makes their own choices. Either way, have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Stephanie Boscovitch is a freshman at Riverbend High School.