The Risks and Alternatives of Recreational Tanning in Saudi Arabia
The Rising Trend of Recreational Tanning in Riyadh: A Dangerous Quest for the Perfect Tan
RIYADH – As the scorching sun of summer casts its rays over Riyadh, a growing number of young Saudis are basking in its glow, chasing the allure of a bronzed complexion. This pursuit of the perfect tan, however, comes with significant health risks, particularly when sunscreen is cast aside in favor of a deeper color.
Jumana Ghassan, a 25-year-old resident of Riyadh, is among those who choose to tan without the protection of sunscreen. "I never use sunscreen when I tan, which is something I do every weekend, because I believe SPF does not allow me to get a golden and glowy tan,” she shared with Arab News. Ghassan’s belief is a common misconception that overlooks the critical benefits of sunscreen in preventing skin damage.
The desire for a sun-kissed look is overshadowing the dangers of excessive sun exposure, which can lead to premature aging, including wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. More alarmingly, sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, a disease on the rise in Saudi Arabia due to the kingdom’s high levels of sunlight throughout the year.
Research from King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in 2020 highlighted basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma as the most prevalent types of skin cancer in the country, accounting for 51.4 percent and 22.5 percent of cases, respectively.
Dr. Ali Al-Bayer, an oncology specialist at King’s College Hospital London in Jeddah, emphasized the dangers of UV radiation from both the sun and tanning beds. "Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to potential mutations and abnormal cell growth," he explained, underlining the cumulative risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.
Dermatologist Dr. Fatima Al-Satouf echoed the importance of sunscreen as a protective barrier against the sun’s harmful rays. "By applying sunscreen regularly and correctly, people can significantly reduce their risk of skin damage and premature aging caused by sun exposure," she stated.
Experts recommend applying a generous amount of sunscreen to all exposed areas of the skin, including the face, neck, arms, legs, and even the scalp, and reapplying every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. The use of protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sun hours are also advised to enhance sun protection.
Despite the risks, alternatives exist for those seeking a tan without the sun’s harmful effects. Rasha Al-Ghamdi, who turned to spray tanning after a skin cancer scare, shared, "My skin has never felt this healthy and supple." Self-tanning products and spray tans offer a safer way to achieve a desired shade without exposing the skin to UV radiation.
The trend of recreational tanning in Riyadh highlights a broader conversation about beauty standards and health risks. As young Saudis navigate these pressures, the importance of prioritizing skin health and embracing natural beauty becomes ever more apparent. By promoting sun-safe practices, there is hope for a shift towards a healthier and more inclusive beauty culture.