Minnesota, USA March 2, 2011- Recently the American Academy of Pediatrics joined the position of many other organizations, such as the World Health Organization, in the stance of wanting to ban teens from using tanning beds. This could possibly be the first step in stopping the vicious cycle of over-baked teens turning into deep-fried adults as they continue to use the beds. The worst side effects are obvious like cancer; everyone claims to know the risks involved. However, the world must remember that typical teens view the harmful consequences as something that cannot happen to them. Should we continue to allow minors to use something such as a tanning bed that could potentially shape the rest of their lives

 

As I have witnessed, over-tanning is the problem in any part of America whether it is small town or large city. However, another problem exists in other parts of the world and even within America in some cases. Just like America, people in other countries desire to change the look of their skin. This is done by bleaching the skin with products to give their skin the porcelain look. When I look at the masses of people who also go along with this trend, then review the type of products that can be put on the skin, I realize that this is just as harmful as tanning.  Although I cannot stop any grown adult from choosing to use these products, it's important for parents to look at what their children are doing and be fully aware of the consequences. A ban should not be needed to keep minors from harming their lives.

To make understanding tanning and skin lightening easier, I have created lists that contain every bit of information you need to make an informed decision and action. First, there is a little bit of basic information to detail. As many know, tanning beds emit UVA and UVB rays; the UVB is responsible for skin damage. On the other side, skin lightening products usually contain one or a combination of chemicals such as Mercury, Hydroquinone, Alpha Hydroxy acids, and Arsenic; even if you do not know each of these ingredients, the ones you know should be scary enough.