We sat down with Grade 12 student and Tanning is Out Ambassador Lina to find out from her what she thinks about tanning, here’s what she had to say.

In your high school is tanning and using a tanning bed popular?

In my school using tanning beds was very popular a few years ago, even guys were doing it! Luckily now the trend has substantially died down.

Do you think the trend is changing?

I think the trend is changing due to the education that is being provided as well as the recent surge of self love that has been very popular these days. Songs like Lady Gaga’s Born This Way are influencing people to accept themselves for who they are no matter the colour of their skin or their race. This trend has also been present in Hollywood where many celebrities are embracing their natural, undamaged skin colours.

Why don’t you tan?

I don’t tan because I have become aware of the dangers of skin cancers such as melanoma that can be caused from exposure to UV rays. I do not feel that it is worth risking my health in order to change my skin tone which I have grown to love!

Can you share your beauty tricks to keeping your skin looking healthy and natural?

In order to keep my skin healthy I wear sunscreen everyday, especially on my face. Protecting my skin from the sun prevents premature wrinkles as well as fights dryness and spotting.

What do you think about a legislation that would prohibit teens from tanning?

I think a legislation that prohibits teens from tanning is exactly what this province needs. As teenagers we often have insecurities which we can outgrow. It is a shame to see so many young girls frequently going to tanning salons because they feel insecure about their skin and damaging their skin in a way that they will later regret. By restricting indoor tanning for those 18 and under, the province can ensure that the people using indoor tanning salons are adults who have had time to make an educated decision and have clearly weighed out the pros and cons of using tanning beds.

Any key take home messages you want to share with others who are reading this?

I would like people to know that it is not worth spending money and risking one’s health by using tanning beds. Diversity is what makes Canada such an amazing country and having people with so many diverse natural skin tones really does make a nice rainbow!