Solariums continue to be perceived by many as a quick and convenient way to achieve a tan, especially before important events. However, behind this seemingly harmless practice lie serious health risks that are often underestimated. According to medical data, artificial UV radiation can lead to permanent damage to the skin and significantly increase the risk of developing cancer. How dangerous are solariums really, why are young people most vulnerable and is there even a “safe tan“… Dr. Anna Kirova, oncodermatologist at the KOC, speaks to FACT – Plovdiv.
- Dr. Kirova, why do you think it is wrong to claim that a solarium is a safe alternative to sun exposure?
- Unfortunately, the problem persists and is a combination of marketing messages, incomplete information and a desire for quick results. A solarium is not a healthy alternative. Even just one visit can increase the risk of skin cancer. The World Health Organization classifies a solarium as a category 1 carcinogen (along with smoking).
- How exactly does artificial UV radiation from solariums damage the skin at the cellular level?
- Solariums can emit up to 12 times more UV-A rays than the sun. This controlled exposure is often much more intense and harmful, causing genetic damage to cells due to deeper penetration into the skin and accelerating photoaging, damaging collagen and elastin. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to DNA damage in skin cells, accumulation of mutations and development of precancerous and cancerous lesions.
- Data shows that even a few visits per year increase the risk of cancer. Do young people underestimate this danger?
- Yes, young people often underestimate the risks associated with tanning beds, the main reason being that the desire for a quick and aesthetic tan, especially before events (such as proms), is stronger than the fear of disease. The harm from UV radiation is cumulative. Skin cancer or premature aging do not appear immediately, which creates an illusion of safety. We – dermatologists, we use the expression “The skin remembers“.
- Why is the risk of melanoma significantly higher in people under 30?
- Scientists have analyzed many medical studies that categorically prove that people under 30 who regularly use a tanning bed are 75% more likely to develop melanoma (the most aggressive type of skin cancer).
- In many countries, there are strict restrictions or bans on tanning beds. Is similar legislation needed in Bulgaria?
- Yes, indeed, in Brazil and Australia, tanning beds are absolutely prohibited, and in many European countries, people under 18 are not allowed. In Bulgaria, there is almost zero control. So anyone can go in and tan as much as they want, without anyone warning them about the real risks. Yes, I think that control should be tightened, especially for minors, or it would be best to ban solariums completely.
- What are the most common skin problems that you observe in patients who have used solariums?
- In addition to the oncological risk, regular use of solariums also leads to a number of dermatological problems - premature skin aging, loss of elasticity, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and damage to small blood vessels. These changes are often observed in patients who have used solariums for many years.
- How can we recognize the early signs of skin cancer or precancerous changes?
- Carefully observe moles for any suspicious changes: in size, color and shape. There is a so-called ABCDE rule:
A-(Asymetry) - asymmetry between the two halves of the nevus (mole)
B(Вorder) - irregular borders
C-(Color) - uneven coloring
D-(Diameter) - any increase in size
E (Evolving) - a changed or newly appeared skin lesion or nevus
Early detection of skin changes allows for timely treatment and significantly improves the prognosis.
- Is there even a “safe tan“, or is this a completely misleading concept?
- There is a myth about the so-called “safe tan“. It is often believed that a solarium prepares the skin for the sun and protects against burning. Medical data does not support this thesis.