“Its still en vogue with a lot of age groups to look tan. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look tan,” says plastic surgeon, Dr. Drew Kreegel.

We see it everywhere in Southwest Florida, people lying out in the sun, trying to get that bronze skin. But Dr. Kreegel says you can still get that sun-kissed look without the harmful U-V rays. “If you want to look tan, the safest way to do it is with tanning sprays.”

Some people opt for sun tanning beds but it turns out that can be just as dangerous as direct sunlight if not used properly. “If you just insist on having the sun bed produce the tan then not doing it year round is the best way to minimize the damages of ultraviolet exposure,“ warns Dr. Kreegel. For those who do use tanning beds, it’s important to limit your use. “Give yourself break periods. Don’t do it continuously year round,” suggests Dr. Kreegel.

Tanning beds can also cause sunburns which is why Dr. Kreegel believes tanning sprays are the best bet. Some sprays can have some side effects; consult your physician on the best option for you.