International SPA Association Members Make Skin Health a Priority

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May 03, 2010, 01:33 ET

LEXINGTON, Ky., May 3 /PRNewswire/ -- You know that sunbathing and indoor tanning are dangerous habits that can lead to harmful consequences. Indoor tanning is a proven human carcinogen and you've seen the leather-like results that too much tanning can have on our skin. In a culture that places importance on looking your best, the emphasis on tanning can be a dangerous message. This May, it's time to make some changes in recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month. If you are a sun-worshipper, make it a point to learn preventive measures against the sun while visiting the spa.

"As a melanoma survivor, I can personally attest to the importance of regular screenings and arming yourself with the tools offered at spas to protect yourself," said ISPA President Lynne McNees. "It's particularly important for teens to hear about the harmful effects of the sun, and the spa is the perfect place for them to learn how to properly care for their skin."

More than one million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually making it the most common form of cancer in the U.S. Even more disparaging news – up to 90 percent of the visible changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun.

"Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a great opportunity for everyone to think about their skin and how to protect it," said Dr. Brent Bauer, director of the Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program at the Mayo Clinic and ISPA's Medical Advisor. "It's especially important if you have increased risk factors for skin cancer such as fair skin, a history of sunburns or lots of moles."

Seen too much sun? These aloe based treatments from ISPA members will sooth the burn and repair parched skin:

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, Scottsdale, AZ – Cucumber Aloe Vera Wrap will heal skin while your feet are massaged and your scalp is soothed with a conditioning treatment. 50 minutes, $165
One Ocean Resort Hotel and Spa, Atlantic Beach, FL – Soothing Aloe Wrap includes a cooling lavender mist, healing aloe gel and nourishing rosehip lotion. 50 minutes, $115
The Spa at The Mirage, Las Vegas, NV – Aloe Restoration Wrap replenishes the body's moisture reserves while you enjoy a scalp and back massage. 50 minutes, $155
SpaTerre at Paradise Point Resort & Spa, San Diego, CA – Dilo Rescue Wrap is a sunburn treatment including a blend of cold pressed dilo and coconut oils, aloe vera and passion fruit extract. 25 minutes, $75
Vdara Health & Beauty Spa, Las Vegas, NV – Aloe & Chamomile Sun Repair Facial reverses sun damage and aids in cellular regeneration. An environmental defense mask and botanical skin brightener lightens hyper-pigmentation. 60 minutes, $135