Young children and infants, people with light skin and eyes and red or blonde hair are most at risk. Selby said a second-degree burn is by far the most dangerous. Skin cancer usually first appears as a mole-like spot. Danger signs include changes in the spot's color, shape, size and bleeding. Selby urges anyone who notices one of these danger signs to see a physician as soon as possible.
Many people attempt to beat the winter-white skin by tanning year round in salons.
The Fifth Season, estimates that 100-150 people come in every day during the winter months to tan. Wilson said tanning in a tanning bed is safer than tanning outside because the amount of exposure is controlled. Selby agreed that salon tanning is safer in this respect but added that moderation is still very important. Using sunscreen is also key to safe sun exposure, Selby said. Sunscreens and sunblocks are rated with a Sun Protection Factor.