July 8, 2010
Updated Jul 8, 2010 at 4:03 PM EDT
According to the Academy of Dermatology, tanning beds dramatically increase the risk of cancer and premature skin aging. Still, more than a quarter of teen girls use them in an effort to get a summer glow. So, are there any safe alternatives? There are lotions that can produce a gradual tan when applied every day. Also, there is the more expensive "spray on" tan. Doctors say both are perfectly safe, just be careful not to inhale any of the chemicals while getting spray tanned.
Doctors say there is one product to avoid: Tanning pills. They are actually tan accelerators, so you are increasing your sun damage when you take them.
