Argument Against Banning Tanning Beds

Tanning beds are known to cause hundreds of thousands of cases of skin cancer, including melanoma, which is the deadliest kind (Tavernise). These types of skin cancers are most commonly found in teenagers due to tanning for many high school events, such as prom and vacations. If teens could see as much damage as they can see tanned skin, would they think twice about using tanning beds? Tanning salons need to be banned for anyone under the age of 18. The biggest argument against banning tanning beds is the fact that it is a free country, and teenagers have the right to choose what they want to do with their parents’ consent. However, no parent wants to lose her child by cancer. The risk of developing melanoma increases nearly 59% in people who use a tanning bed before the age of 35. A 31 year-old woman who started tanning when she was 16 found a tumor in her left leg when she was 25. She was in shock when she found out and stated, “So much is pushed into your head when you are younger. Don 't do drugs. Don 't drink. Don 't smoke. Well nobody ever said, don 't get in a tanning bed” (Tavernise). Putting a ban on tanning salons for teens under 18 could save many lives. …show more content…
Obviously putting a ban on tanning would no longer allow this to happen. On the other hand, teenagers have the ability to get tan without laying in a tanning bed. Some of the alternatives also would be more cost efficient in the long run. The price of using a tanning bed ranges from about $40-50, for monthly use. The cost of getting a spray-tan is about $30 (“Tan- Spa and Salon”). One of the most beneficial ways to get tan without damaging a person 's skin or wallet is to buy a self tanner. Self tanners do no damage to the skin and keep it tan for up to two weeks (Loving Tan). This is a great alternative to anyone who enjoys tanning but is smart enough to know the risk factors that go along with