I know its not healthy but i have been tanning in a tanning machine for about a month and half. In the last couple days i've notice that i have blotchy spots on my face, neck and upper back. There actually white spots. When i started tanning they were not there. They just started appearing a couple days ago. I tan atleast once or twice a week. It cant be that im fading because i tanned yesterday. Can it be that i have that discoloration disease of the skin. My grandma does. If i do what can i do to prevent it. Should i go to a dermatologist. What is that disease called, and why does it occur/ what causes it.

Go see a dermatologist - it could be vitiligo or possible skin cancer.

How long do you tan for in one session?

Skin cancer. White spots can actaully mean cancer?

It's one possibility among many.

i tan for 12 min in one session

Q: What does skin cancer look like?

A: ....any moles that change shape or color, are multicolored, black, white or translucent, have a ridge around the edge, bleed, itch or are irritated by clothing.

Belinda

You probably tanned up as a buffer for your trip to Puerto Rico.
Sadly.....
Skin problems are showing up more on people who stay in the sun a lot even if they do not burn. The diminishing ozone layer isn't helping. The suns rays dry out and crack the skin and tanning is pretty much going out of fashion for those that care for their skin. Also, the sun is more direct as you get closer to the equator so short periods of exposure can do real damage. Of course, you already know this.
My advice...stay out of the sun and get as little exposure to the "rays" as you can. Use a good sunscreen and wear protective clothing before you go out and even if you do not burn.... still limit your exposure. Sorta takes the fun out of having a good time. The story of my life in the sun....find the shade.


Old Gregorio burns in 10 minutes...sun screen becomes an important daily issue for me on sunny days. By the way, thats one sweet kid.

i was in a tanning machine

I know that but you will be going to Puerto Rico and there will be plenty of sun there. Enjoy your trip..