With summer quickly approaching and prom just a few weeks away, some students consistently tan themselves whether it be in tanning beds or just laying in the sun for hours. While people may like the way they look with a sun-kissed glow, they may not like the consequences.

“I don’t know a whole lot about skin cancer, except that it can be caused from too-much sun exposure,” freshman Kinsey Ray said.

It is widely known that skin cancer is a possible result of tanning, but most people do not take this threat seriously. According to www.skincancer.org an estimated 3,170 people will die this year due to tanning that resulted in skin cancer.

“I knew that hundreds of people die from skin cancer every year, but I never knew that it was that many,” senior Brooke Ray said.

Another lesser known thing about skin cancer is that there are three different types. Each is dangerous and may develop into a mutation or worst form of cancer.

“All I really know about skin cancer is that you can get it from tanning,” Brooke said. “That is about it.”

The weakest form, basal cell, is the most common type of cancer in the US.  Squamous cell cancer is more serious, because it can spread to vital organs in the body. But, melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, because it can quickly spread throughout the body.  What may surprise students is melanoma is the second most common form of cancer for young people ages 15-29 years old.

“I don’t know anything other than it is bad and it can kill you,” sophomore Payton Welch said.

So, how do students that bake their skin every chance possible feel about this? Some of them have decided to take precautions, while others have said that the tan is worth it.

“I tan almost an hour every day in the summer,” Welch said.

It is common to see Kinsey and Brooke on the weekends or after school at the tanning beds or laying out in their backyard.

“I tan at last every other weekend, but I do use sun screen,” Kinsey said.

Both of these girls have skin that takes to a natural tan, but they are still at risk for skin cancer. Brooke was unaware of these dangers, and has decided to lessen her tanning. She has also committed to using a higher SPF sunscreen to protect her skin.

“I will still tan as much as I do know, but I will wear a higher SPF sunscreen now,” Brooke said.

However, Kinsey knows of these consequences and wants to continue getting her tan. Even though she does use sunscreen she believes that skin cancer is not a big threat.

“I’m not saying that I won’t get skin cancer,” Kinsey said. “But only a few people who tan actually get it.”

Freshman Heidi Zettle says that she almost never tans, but she feels she needs some vitamin D in her skin.

“You have to get it from going outside,” Zettle said.  “It is also necessary to absorb other minerals like iron and so B vitamins too. So, its really good to have. Plus, it’s good for your hair.”

This is true, students should not avoid the sun completely. As long as an SPF is applied and it is in moderation, sun can have a positive effect on your body, such as giving your face some color and making your hair shinier from the vitamin.

“I do have a vitamin D deficiency so I know all about it,” Zettle said. “Everyone needs a little sun in their skin.”

For those who are scared of the real danger of skin cancer, but still want a tan, fake tans are a better alternative. Many students and teachers on campus do use this as an alternative.

“I use a fake tanner instead of tanning,” teacher Bev Smith said. “I don’t like bronzers though, it can come out orange or blotchy.”

However, some people are not scared of skin cancer at all. A lot of students go to the tanning beds every chance they get. Some have learned these bad habits from family.

“My grandma actually has a tanning bed in her house, and she has like paper skin.” sophomore Merrimon McCartney said. “Like literally if you touch her, her skin flakes off. She has been using this tanning bed since she was really young. Sometimes, her skin even bleeds from being so dry. I don’t think that tanning beds are good for you, but ok as long as its a special occasion.”

At most places where tanning beds are, fake tans are available as well. There are many different shades and options in fake tans as well as a wide variety of prices. Another positive aspect to fake tans is that the applicator can choose where they would like to tan on their body.

McCartney wants to stop her family’s tanning tradition and not tan in the beds.

“I wanted to start going to to the tanning beds and stuff,” McCartney said. “But, my dermatologist gave me some pamphlets. They said when you get older your skin literally turns to paper.”

Drugstores also have a wide variety of fake tanners that are safer than getting burnt. Smith says that she prefers the Bath & Body Works brand because it gives off a natural color.

“I use Spa Blue from Bath & Body Works,” Smith said. “It is the most moisturizing and natural color. It is just what works for me.”

However, there are some problems with fake tanners. If the person applying it is inexperienced, the tan can come out looking blotchy. So, if one is interested in getting a fake tan for prom, it is recommended that you practice before-hand.

“I have best friends that get a fake tan for prom, but I also know some people that do it regularly,” McCarty said.

Students should take account of the dangers of tanning. For more information and statistics please visit www.skincancer.org.