What is a common side effect of excessive tanning?

Excessive tanning leads to skin aging for several reasons. One of the primary effects of overexposure to UV radiation, whether from the sun or tanning beds, is damage to the skin's DNA. This damage results in changes to the skin's structure, leading to a loss of elasticity and firmness. Additionally, the skin can develop fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots as a result of increased melanin production and the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers. Therefore, skin aging is a significant and well-documented side effect of excessive tanning, making it the correct answer.

In contrast, while some might believe that tanning could lead to increased energy levels or improved skin texture, these perceptions are not substantiated by scientific evidence. Similarly, while moderate sun exposure is necessary for vitamin D synthesis, excessive tanning does not enhance this process; rather, it increases the risk of skin damage and potentially skin cancer.