These days most people are aware that UVA rays are not too good for the condition of the skin. Yet, not only are beaches as popular as ever, but there is also a steady growth in number of solarium salons.

Even after all the education about dangers of tanning, for a lot of people a quick fix of a bronzed body outweighs the risks of a long term damage. They think that it will take forever before any problems are visible.

How long does it take, really?

Working in a tanning industry I have seen first hand the damage that sun and solarium beds do to people. First, little freckles and skin discolorations appear. Then, the skin starts to loose its elasticity. It happens so slowly, that most do not notice it. Yet, when you see two people of the same age side by side, one that tans frequently, and the other one not at all, the difference is striking.

And it is already apparent in girls in their mid-late 20s and early thirties.

In fact, if you tan regularly, at the age of 30 you will have the skin of a 40 year old woman that does not tan. By the time you are in your mid 30s, you will have loose skin all over your body. As the elastin fibres break down, the texture of skin becomes thinner, and wrinkles and creases appear. You will also get large age spots and broken capillaries, where the blood has boiled from the heat of sun or solarium. And it only gets worse from then on.

What is your chance of getting of all those results if you sun or solarium tan regularly?

100%

What can you do to reverse this damage when you are older?

Not enough. You can repair the surface of the skin to look more pleasing to the eye, but nothing will repair the elastin fibres deep down in the skin that have been damaged irrevocably. The only way is for plastic surgeon to tighten the skin, but it will cost a small fortune for your whole body to be done.

Does it all mean we should stay white and pasty all our lives?

Not at all!

These days salon spray tanning as well as self tanning products are readily available, effective and very affordable. Sure, you might need some experimenting to find the best product for you, but once you find the right method and product, it is well worth it. Salon spray tanning is not only very quick (especially in the booth), but also cheaper than solarium (see www.best-spray-tan-guide.com for price breakdown).

If you are prepared to put in a little bit of effort and learn how to tan with self tanning products, you not only will get a totally natural looking tan, but it will cost you less than bus fare to the beach.

And the best thing of all? Your skin will stay young, tight, blemish and wrinkle free well into your advanced years without expensive cosmetics, lasers and plastic surgery.

So, what does a smart girl do if she wants to have a great tan, but is not willing to sacrifice her skin?

SHE FAKE TANS.