didesign / stock.adobe.com
As most of our industry is well aware, UVB exposure through natural sunlight or indoor tanning has positive effects on the body. Researchers such as the renowned Dr. Michael Holick of Boston University have well documented these effects. His books, “The Vitamin D Solution” and “The UV Advantage” go into great detail with the basic premise that “sunshine is good for you!” Thousands of these books are in the hands of salon operators and used as a source of info to counter the anti-UV exposure position that the media has pushed for years. His depth and coverage of the positive effects of UVB rankled many from a medical community that has held fast to a “sun exposure leads to skin cancer” mantra.
1. Inform the public about the benefits of daily, non-burning exposure to UV, while warning about the risk and dangers of sunburn or improper sunscreen use. 2. Inform the public that daily, non-burning sunlight exposure may not significantly increase the incidence of premature aging, sunburn and skin cancers and the wearing of sunscreens may actually reduce the health benefits of such exposure. 3. Recognize that the degree of sun protection varies with regard to race, skin type, length of exposure and geographic latitude, and general guidelines should be established as such.
Research on the positive effects of UV exposure continue to roll in and of course, that’s encouraging. Remember, millions of people weigh the risks and benefits of UV exposure and choose to seek a cosmetic tan at professional indoor tanning facilities where sessions are delivered according to individual skin type and controlled by a timer to minimize the risk of sunburn and overexposure.
A 26-year industry veteran, Joe has taught certified salon operator training for the last 15 years, as well as advocating indoor tanning in many capacities. Joe is a sought-after speaker and presenter at both national & regional trade events, also interacting with the FDA, state & local regulatory agencies. During his most recent tenure with the ITA, he served as director of membership.
Copyright 2020 ist Magazine