The “glow” of a tan that looks better than is healthy. — Picture courtesy of shutterstock.comWASHINGTON, May 29 — A US survey announced last week finds that despite efforts to spread the word on sun damage and soaring skin cancer rates, many young adults still prefer to bask in the sun. The rationale? A tan is more attractive, and “sun exposure is good for your health”.

The nationwide online survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology found that 58 per cent of the 1,151 respondents aged 18 to 29 believe people look more attractive with a tan, and 71 per cent believe that lying in the sun is healthy.

In the past year, about 40 per cent of the respondents in that age group used a tanning bed, spent time in the sun, used a self-tanner, or purchased a spray tan. The survey also found that one-quarter of the respondents aged 18 to 29 were unsure if sun exposure can cause wrinkles.

“Our survey showed that age was highly associated with tanning, as the respondents under age 30 were more likely to use tanning beds and spend time in the sun,” dermatologist Dr Zoe Draelos said in a news release. “Ultimately, seeking to change the color of your skin is self-defeating because exposure to ultraviolet radiation — either through tanning beds or by seeking the sun — can lead to wrinkles, prematurely aging skin and even a diagnosis of skin cancer.”

According to a survey released last month, one in five British women skip the sunscreen on their summer holiday. According to Macmillan Cancer Support, a poll of 1,500 women found that 22 per cent of them opt out of sun protection, with reasons including that sunscreens are too expensive or that they don't work.

Still crave the “healthy glow” of a tan? “If you want to be tan, use a spray tan,” advises Draelos, “which is a safe alternative to tanning by artificial or natural ultraviolet light.”

Watch a new ad produced by the American Academy of Dermatology to encourage young women to embrace their natural skin tone and stop tanning. — Relaxnews