With summer approaching, young people across the country will begin preparing for fun in the sun. While some focus on obtaining a “beach ready” body, many young men and women desire to have a sun-kissed complexion. Going to tanning salons for a quick UV fix is not uncommon, but holds serious health risks that most young people brush off.

Surveys have concluded that while young people are aware of the risks of tanning, the desire to have a tan outweighs the known dangers. In a study done by the American Academy of Dermatology, 92 percent of those surveyed said they knew how dangerous tanning was, but 65 percent admitted they still feel better when they have a tan. With skin cancer being the most prevalent form of cancer among Americans, the risks are not a joke and many states are passing tanning related legislation to force teen skin safety.

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