Dermatology: 'Sunburn Art' Is More Dangerous Than Just A Tan
For some, getting a tan is simply not enough. They'd like to take it a step further with what dermatologists are referring to as "sunburn art."
Health officials say that this could be even more dangerous than just a sunburn, alone. In fact, the "hot" new trend has even coined the hashtag #sunburnart, popping up on various social media sites, according to TIME.
For those in favor of this burning new look, it either involves tracing a sun shape on the tanners skin with sunscreen for a pale outline, or, on the reverse-side of things, covering the body in sunscreen and wiping away any areas he or she is hoping to keep exposed to the sun.
But what makes "sunburn art" potentially more dangerous than just a tan? The dangers lie in getting a great burn, according to Dr. Barney Kenet, a New York-based dermatologist. Because of this, it may even further increase melanoma risk for those working to create the best piece of art on their epidermis.
"This is where popular culture is clashing with medical advice," said Kenet, via ABC News. "It's really obvious that sunburn does two things to you: it gives you lines and freckles and wrinkles and it also causes skin cancer especially melanoma."
Then there's the motivation for getting a good burn," he added. "The practice is tempting them to burn even worse."
With the holiday weekend fast-approaching, some tips to prevent sunburn include lathering on the sunscreen, staying out of the sun and staying in the shade with a hat on if out for extended periods, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
The American Melanoma Foundation notes that more than 1 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States alone, many of which could have been prevented.
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