New evidence is showing that sun exposure is necessary in order to promote good health.
After years of being warned about the perils of exposing skin to UV rays, the tanning industry is taking large steps to invest funds into research.
"Sun is crucial to your overall physical and mental well-being," says Dr. Michael F. Holick, author of The UV advantage, and professor of Medicine, Dermatology, physiology, and biophysics at Boston University Medical Center.
Holick is responsible for the breakthrough evidence that sun exposure produces Vitamin D necessary for healthy body function.
Healthy, moderate sun exposure establishes and maintains the appropriate 25-vitamin D levels in your blood and may help prevent a variety of diseases, including cancer, stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure, and autoimmune-related conditions such as Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis."
People have instinctively understood the relationship between sunshine and good health for a long time.
It's the only 20 minutes of the day that nobody can bother me," says Brynn Kushner, senior, Staten Island, NY.
"I feel better about myself after I tan," Kushner added.
I need that extra boost especially during the depressing winter months, says Christin Coyle, senior, Centerport, NY..
Holly Hart, co-owner of Heatwave Tanning Salon in Fairfield, stands behind Dr. Holick's research.
"Finally there is evidence to show that there are good benefits to the tanning beds," Hart says.
She is very strict about allowing her customers to tan at a moderate exposure.
"It's not just about making a profit, but about making sure that our customers are smart tanning by not burning," Hart added.
Remember that overexposure is what causes the dermatologists to frighten you with skin cancer death statistics.