Now that summer is over, many people rush to indoor tanning salons to avoid losing their summer glow. However, in recent years another explanation as to why people rush to indoor tanning has emerged. Exposing one’s skin the UV rays may be addictive. As with alcohol, not everyone who is exposed to UV radiation becomes dependent, but there are enough UV abusers to warrant a new medical diagnostic category: tanning addiction.

Every tanner is aware of skin damages and heightened chance of skin cancer that exposure to U.V. radiation causes, yet they still choose to tan; some as often as 3-5 times a week. So, with the knowledge of how dangerous tanning is, why keep tanning? Many scientists say that the release of pleasure-giving endorphins in the brain, which occurs when exposed to UV light, is the likely stimulus for tanning addictions. Studies have also shown that frequent tanners reported lying in a tanning bed helps them relax, which is another reason to explain the compulsion to keep tanning. If tanning results in relaxation and heightened endorphins, it is easy to see how this behavior becomes an addiction.

Although creating a momentary feel-good sensation, frequent tanners are often more likely to report experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety and depression than those who were not addicted to tanning or do not tan at all. Along with anxiety, studies have shown that people who are addicted to indoor tanning use alcohol, marijuana, and other substances more than those who are not addicted. Having a summer glow is always nice, but keep in mind that tanning is not only dangerous for your physical health but also on your mental health.

If you are concerned about a tanning addiction, counseling offered by Solace Counseling can help! Find out more by visiting our Facebook and Twitter pages.