As summer begins, the tendency of many people to seek a perfect tan under the sun increases. However, this practice can become a dangerous health obsession, known as tanorexia. This compulsive behavior leads individuals to expose themselves excessively to the sun or to UVA tanning booths, ignoring the associated risks.
In the context of the European Day for Skin Cancer Prevention, celebrated on June 13, specialists at Nara Seguros emphasize the need to moderate sun exposure and to raise awareness about its negative effects.
Tanorexia is characterized by a compulsion to tan. Affected individuals often have a distorted perception of their skin, seeing themselves as 'too pale' even if they are visibly tan. This behavior leads to serious skin problems such as recurrent burns, premature aging, and precancerous lesions. The Spanish Association of Dermatology and Venereology warns about the 40% increase in the incidence of skin cancer in recent years.
The psychological impact is also significant. Tanorexia is related to anxiety, low self-esteem, and social pressure, mainly affecting adolescents and young people. Meeting certain beauty standards can lead to emotional dependence on tanning, affecting mental health and well-being.
To prevent these risks, it is crucial to adopt sun protection measures. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreens (at least SPF 30) is recommended, avoiding direct exposure between 12:00 and 16:00 hours, and applying sunscreen every two hours. Additionally, the use of hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing is essential, as well as undergoing periodic dermatological examinations.
"It is important to learn to enjoy the sun in a healthy way, without pressure or obsessions. It's not just about aesthetics, but a real risk to health. The skin has memory, and what we do today will affect our health in the future." Nara Seguros notes.
