Myth: Since a base tan can prevent sunburn, does that mean I am reducing sun damage and skin aging by tanning?
Busted!
Tanning is a sign the skin has already been injured. Tanning is the body's attempt to prevent further harm by producing extra pigment. UV light damages skin cell's DNA, which causes tanning, but also accelerates skin aging and increases skin cancer risk. Never lay out to get a tan and NEVER go to tanning beds! It only takes one damaged skin cell to start a skin cancer.