JUNE 8, 2009 — A dermatologist’s rant about indoor tanning in the nation’s flagship newspaper turned into a venue for dozens of intelligent reader replies to why the cosmetic dermatology industry’s age-old mantra to avoid UV exposure no longer makes sense.

Dr. Francesca Fusco, who reported in the article to be assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, but revealed by a reader to be a practicing botox injection specialist, had her comments successfully refuted by reader comments.

“Is there such as thing as a healthy tan? Simply put, no. There is no degree of tanning, whether from natural sunlight or artificial light, like tanning beds, that can be considered safe,” Fusco said, continuing dermatology’s unchanging words on a changing topic.

“Apparently the good Dr.’s speciality is not as advertised. After reviewing her practice I am comfortable with ignoring her advice,” one reader wrote.

To read the Times story and all the reader responses click here.