Melanoma prevention tips for midnight sun season [Video]

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) – It is Skin Cancer Awareness Month so whether you are soaking up the midnight sun or taking a trip to the lower 48 this summer, it is crucial to protect your skin from harsh sun rays.

A national survey done by the Orlando Health Cancer Institute found that 32% of Americans agree that tan people look better and healthier. However, experts say this is a dangerous beauty standard due to the risks of sun exposure.

“There is no such thing as a healthy tan, as it’s really just a visual manifestation of damage to the skin,” said Rajesh Nair, MD, an oncology surgeon at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. “But we’re fighting against a perceived positive image and health benefits of something that actually has a totally opposite reality, which is that suntanned skin represents an increased risk of a deadly disease.” Nair added.

The survey also found that roughly one in seven adults under the …