In this blog post, co-written by Tan Free Grad Leaders Cynthia and Imaan, they are encouraging other teens to not tan. Both have had experience tanning and now believe it is not worth the risk.

Imaan and Cynthia, Tan Free Grad Leaders

We wanted to lead the Tanning is Out Tan Free Grad campaign at our school because we thought it was important to raise awareness about the adverse effects of deliberate tanning. We also thought it would be a great way to reach out to our grad class.

The students in our grad class had mixed reactions to our campaign. Some were excited to take the pledge, while others took some convincing; still others were against it. Many people who never would have cared thought twice about tanning and ended up taking the pledge and convincing their friends to do the same.

We think going tan free is important because tanning is unnecessary to look and feel beautiful. Everyone looks awesome in their own skin tone and they are also healthy! Also, being tan free ensures that our risk of getting skin cancer stays as low as possible.

We have both tanned while on vacation in sunny destinations. Cynthia tanned because she likes lying in the sun and the compliments she receives on her tan when she comes home. She changed her behaviour because she learned that sun damage is cumulative and realized that tan skin is unhealthy skin.

Imaan tanned because she felt like her warm skin tone was fading. She changed her behaviour because she realized that her own skin tone is fine the way it is. Additionally, she got a horrible sun burn for the first time and learned that dark skinned people are also affected by the sun and still need to wear sunscreen.

We think the trend of thinking tanned skin looks good is changing and that people are realizing their skin tone is beautiful the way it is. However, avid tanners still do not see, or do not care, about the harmful effects of tanning.

We want to tell other teens that tanning really does have an effect no matter what colour your skin is. Also, it can affect not only your life, but the lives of those who care about you and your health.

Cynthia & Imaan, Tan Free Grad Leaders
Burnaby BC