Sun-tanning parties fun but pose risks: Expert

Pointing to new trends gaining popularity in Dubai, the doctor said that the ‘new bad habits’ of using tanning beds were more dangerous than a tan got under the sun.

Dr Anwar Al Hammadi, Consultant and Head of Dermatology at the Dubai Health Authority and City Hospital, Dubai, said tanning bed parties were great get-togethers but with dangerous outcomes.

“Action should be taken against artificial tanning beds since the procedure can cause skin cancer,” said the doctor. “Tanning in bed is worse than the sun,” he said while calling for a ban. “People think since these services are licensed, they are safe, but misuse can lead to further problems.”

The doctor also said that an increasing number of residents were asking for skin-bleaching procedures to achieve a lighter skin shade that is considered a sign of beauty in many countries.

He, however, clarified that skin bleaching was carried out only as part of treatment procedures. “Bleaching creams can cause the skin to become hypersensitive and cancerous,” said Dr Hammadi citing an example of the procedure carried out by the late pop icon Michael Jackson.

Dr Hammadi said in an interview that residents could enjoy the weather and sun provided they are suitably protected. “Using sun screening lotions and staying in the shade from 9am to 3pm can also keep people protected from harmful ultraviolet rays,” he added.

Poor habits from a young age could show up as severe problems later in life. “Early aging of the skin due to exposure to the sun, smoking and poor diet can all lead to different skin conditions in old age,” he said.

Though skin cancer is very rare in dark skin, but over exposure to the sun and some environmental factors could lead to occasional cases, he said.

The DHA’s dermatology centre located in Jumeirah was established in March and employs 17 highly qualified national doctors. It also serves as a teaching centre. Scabies, psoriasis and warts (genital) are among the highest number of skin conditions doctors see at the centre. Dr Hammadi also called for inclusion of genital warts testing in the government’s compulsory pre-marital screenings procedures for 
both sexes.

“All skin conditions are chronic for patients since they may affect them both physically and psychologically,” he added.

He also said treatment for most skin conditions requires patience and a plan. “Patients are impatient and shop around which is not beneficial,” explained Dr Hammadi.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com

Don’t depend only on sun for Vit D

The sun should not be the only source of vitamin D, according to Dr Anwar Al Hammadi, Consultant and Head of Dermatology at the Dubai Health Authority and City Hospital, Dubai,

People should consume more foods and supplements that can help them overcome the deficiency, he said.

Many studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency is significantly higher in Arab women than those in western countries. “The risk of obtaining the vitamin from the sun is more than that of taking supplements, so why take a risk?”

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to hair loss, fatigue and joint pains.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com