There is much discussion around sun tanning and just how sensible it is.  The discussion takes in skin damage, SPF, skin cancer and sun tanning.  Some authorities believe you should have zero exposure to sunlight and recommend never going in the sun without piling on the spf.  Leave no part of your body uncovered.  Yet there are many experts who say to avoid the sun completely, with no exposure.  Even if you cover up with spf.

You need to understand that balance is the better part of sensibility around the controversy.  A tan is your body's natural protection from sunburn and overexposure.  The danger comes from the cumulative effect of repeated sunburns.  This is the leading cause of most skin damage.

You may want to consider that the advice many experts give concerning zero exposure may be bad.  Actually, sun exposure is vital to our body's ability to maintain good health.  Sun exposure is the main source of vitamin D for our body which helps to reduce the risk of certain cancers.  Sunburn is the source of the damage and is what should be avoided.  However, a tan can prove to be beneficial in protecting the skin from sunburn and its many adverse side effects.

We all need sunshine to stay healthy.  You may be tempted to avoid the sun completely but you need to consider that the sun helps your body absorb vitamin D and helps to prevent depression.  It is recommended by the experts that a moderate amount of sun exposure without sunscreen is good to maintaining good health.

We are not recommending that you run out into the sun and become overexposed.  The one thing you should avoid is sunburn.  Small doses of sun exposure will give your body what it needs and keep you from overexposure.  Exercise caution.  Gradually spend time in the sun. 10 minutes to begin with and gradually increasing the time as you gain some tan to keep from getting a sunburn.  While overexposure can cause skin cancer, there is strong evidence to suggest that sunlight protects against MS and breast, colon and ovarian cancers.  Moderation in all things. Balance. Not too much and not too little.

Even sunscreen introduces toxins into your body.  To best protect against too much sun it is recommended that you use your clothing.  Covering your skin is the best way to protect your body and keep the toxic chemicals found in sunscreen out of your system.

The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee offer much opportunity to be out in the sun.  Hiking, riding your bike, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, swimming, golfing and 4-wheeling are all examples of outdoor activities that you can find in Pigeon Forge as well as in Gatlinburg.  We recommend you use good judgment and moderation when spending time in the sun.  Most of all have fun and get out there!  Life is good.  Enjoy it!!!