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Posted: 06/09/2012
(CNN) - To tan or not to tan?
Dermatologists say that's not the question, because tanning should never be an option.
But still people do it, some to the point where they're always in the sun or in a tanning booth.
Why are some people tanorexics?
Doctors say they could be suffering from body dysmorphic disorder.
"It's a disorder where people have a preoccupation with a certain perceived defect in their bodies, and the focus becomes excessive," said Dr. Gregory Jones, a clinical psychologist.
Experts say tanning can be an addiction just like smoking or alcoholism.
Studies on indoor tanning show those who suffer from tanorexia love the endorphin release they experience.
"Because of the endorphin releases that can cause physical addiction, people can actually have withdrawal systems if they cannot go tanning," Jones said.
The best way to enjoy the sun?
Doctors say limit yourself to 30 minutes in the sun and wear a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher than fights off both UVA and UVB rays.
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