Sunbed ban for Under 16's

Youth Voice: Government takes action on sunbed use.

The government is actually taking measures to ensure the ban of the use of sunbeds for those under 16. The new measures will also ensure there are compulsory notices warning of the danger of sunbeds in places where sunbeds are used commercially.

I always thought that it was crazy that some parents would allow their kids to go on sunbeds, I couldn’t believe it when I read reports that kids were being booked in for sessions by their parents in order to have a glowing tan for their first communion day. I mean what the hell, are these parents crazy?!

I don’t really see the point in sunbeds, especially since there are such good fake tan products on the market. I don’t necessary agree with the ‘you’ve been tangoed’ effect, but I guess it’s each to their own.

A report that has been published by the national cancer registry has predicted that over the next 15 years Ireland will see a huge increase in skin cancer caused by the overexposure to ultraviolet rays.

Personally I don’t understand why people go on sunbeds, especially when the dangers are widely known; I’ve never really understood the whole fascination with them. I think that the government should ban their use completely, although there is the danger that they would become more popular upon taking such measures. Perhaps if everyone who uses a sunbed was to speak to someone suffering from skin cancer, they might realise the risks they are taking.

By Marie Duffy

Sun dangers

Even in cloudy weather, the skin can absorb UV rays and you should use sun block EVERYDAY to protect your skin. Sun beds are also a big no no: your skin absorbs high levels of harmful UV rays every time you pop those goggles on and intentionally bake yourself.

Find out more about skin cancer and sun dangers.

But I hate being pale!

If you MUST have a tan then use fake tan: you can buy a whole range of different types in most chemists or you can go to a beauticians and have the tan applied professionally.

Sun safety:

• We might have crap weather here but that doesn’t mean we can run round naked when the sun appears. When it’s sunny (here or abroad) wear a t-shirt, sunglasses and wide brimmed hat (that shades your face and neck). They’re even in fashion now so no bloody excuses!
• Wear sun block with a minimum of factor SPF 15 and with UVA protection, that is high or ultra high (4-5 stars) every day, summer and winter.
• Make sure your skin is clean and dry before you put sun block on. Apply the sun block at least 20 minutes before you go out. Re-apply cream at least every 2 hours and more when doing sport or if you're sweaty.
• Don’t forget to apply it on areas that catch a lot of sun- the ears, nose, lips, head and back of neck.
• If you’re in the water, wear waterproof sun block and make sure to re-apply your sun block when you’re back on dry land.
• Remember that if your skin is turning pink, then the damage is already done: get out of the sun and use a stronger sun block next time you’re outside.
• Avoid being in the sun when it’s strongest, that’s between 11am and 3pm.
  
   
• Wear decent sunglasses to protect your eyes. Not the pair you got free with a magazine.
  
   
• Watch out for changes to moles and freckles, lumps or growths on the body or a sore that doesn’t heal. If you see any unusual skin changes check it out with your doctor.
• If you burn easily and need a reminder to use sunblock, repeat 10 times a day “I’m pale and exotic, I’m pale and exotic”.
• Get lots more information on sun safety on the Irish Cancer Society SunSmart website.