Why Do People Suntan?
The most common reason given for suntanning is that time in the sun brings a psychological feeling, often intense, of well being and relaxation. The physical warmth of the suns rays is also very pleasant. After becoming more tan, most people feel better about themselves. These are deep psychological feelings and seem to be part of our genetic response to sunlight. What is Suntanning and is it Dangerous? An estimated 22 million Americans tan in salon sun beds each year and a much larger number tan outside every year. Suntanning slowly produces pigment (melanin) in the skin as ultraviolet rays in sunlight penetrate the skin. The buildup of melanin helps to blocks ultraviolet rays and also serves as a powerful anti-oxidant. Additional, sunlight produces a redness or erythema that when combined with melanin results in the esthetically preferred skin color tone. People suntan for a variety of reasons – to enhance physical beauty and sexual attractiveness, for mood elevation. and to counter
