A consultant dermatologist has warned against the use of sun-beds by children. Nuala Macklin reports
Scientists warn how the diminishing ozone layer is contributing to the increasing instance of cancer-related melanomas. This is a protective layer which acts as a natural sunscreen from the harmful rays of the sun.
Less than one week after our first sunny spell this year, a number of children were treated for sunburn at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.
However, natural sunlight which contains harmful ultra-violet B and A rays, is not solely responsible for skin damage. Sun-bed use gives exposure predominantly to UVA wavelengths, which causes a biological reaction that may result in skin aging and skin cancer.
Alarmingly, young children are now using sun beds to try to obtain a tan.
Dr Rosemarie Watson, consultant dermatologist at Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin, Dublin, says: "We are hearing stories about parents having their children 'tanned' for special occasions. With Holy Communion season upon us, this is a timely opportunity to warn against the harmful effects of sun-beds for children."
Over-exposure at an early age to UVA rays from natural sunlight or sun-beds leads to premature ageing of the skin and suppresses the skin's immune system, she says.
"This may allow skin cancer to occur over time. A lot of people don't understand that a tanned skin is a damaged skin and is the body's natural response to over-exposure to ultra-violet rays."
She personally has hasn't treated children who have used sun-beds but anecdotal evidence suggests children as young as eight or nine are using them.
"Initially I would have assumed that parents were responsible in allowing this trend, but more children feel under pressure to obtain the 'perfect look' which is also associated with a tan. They are asking parents for these treatments," she says.
The Journal of Public Health Medicine in March showed that out of 1,400 primary school children, aged between 8 and 11, questioned, 48 per cent expressed a desire to use sun- beds, while 96 (or seven per cent) had actually used sun-beds in the last six months; 16 used one regularly; 61 children had gained access to a sun-bed in someone's house and 29 (30 per cent) admitted to sore skin or sore eyes after sun-bed use.
The Victorians took a very dim view of tanned skin which was associated with peasants. Pale skin was associated with the idle rich and aristocracy. But selling the "pale and interesting" look as the healthy option in the 21st century is tough for parents. Warning children of the pop-idol generation that their skin will age prematurely, is akin to whistling directly into a gust of wind. This culture is reinforced by images of Victoria Beckham, Britney Spears and similar pop icons presenting themselves with all-year round tans.
Children are more vulnerable as they have a lesser capacity to produce melanin which acts as a protective pigment, Dr Watson points out. Incorrectly, some people believe that because they are using sun-block, they can safely stay out in the sun much longer. Recent research shows that sunscreens do not give good adequate protection against UVA light - this includes some high-factor sunscreens that claim UVA protection.
There is no complete block which means skins are still vulnerable. Most at risk is the fair-skinned Irish complexion, blonde hair, blue eyes, or red-haired and freckled skin, and those with moley skin.
Dr Watson is unequivocal on the use of sun-beds. "I have no hesitation in saying that I believe that sun- beds should be banned from use by children.
"Sunscreens only form a part of a good UVA and UVB protection programme which should include seeking shade where possible; a hat; tee-shirt and protective eye-wear. Children under six months should avoid sunlight exposure altogether."
She strongly recommends the use of ultra-violet swim-suits for children as a protective measure - they are available in Early Learning stores. "As far as we know, fake tans are safe for use on adolescents but I don't recommend they be used on children."
Sunlight has inherent healing qualities such as being a natural source of vitamin D, and is sometimes used in photo-therapy to treat disfiguring skin conditions in children such as psoriasis, severe eczema and vitiligo (a condition causing loss of pigment in the skin.)
But ultimately, Dr Watson says, "sun-beds should not be a substitute and should only be used under the supervision of a dermatologist."