The Dangers of Tanning Beds for Young People

The Impact of Early Tanning Bed Use

Nichole Sims began using a tanning bed at age 15 because her peers did so, especially before important events like homecoming dances and prom. Eight years later, she received a diagnosis of melanoma, a potentially fatal skin cancer. During her experience, she has noticed an increase in tanning popularity among young people, driven by online influences. Sims tries to counteract the false claims on social media that promote tanning as beneficial for mood and appearance by sharing her personal story.

“I feel our generation often overlooks the risks and tends to live in the moment,” Sims explained. Experts worry about the resurgence of tanning among young adults due to social media’s role in its comeback. A video featuring a girl’s “tanning secrets” has amassed over 11 million views, with comments downplaying the risks of tanning.

The American Cancer Society anticipates over 100,000 new melanoma cases in the U.S. by 2026, with approximately 8,500 expected deaths. Concern grows as some influencers promote the use of tanning beds.

How Tanning Beds Elevate Cancer Risk

Dr. Pedram Gerami and his team at Northwestern University’s medical school investigated the cellular effects of tanning bed use. Their findings revealed that tanning bed users have nearly three times the melanoma risk compared to non-users. Gerami’s research involved comparing skin samples from both groups, focusing on the DNA sequences of melanocytes, the skin cells that can evolve into moles, melanoma, or other cancers.

Upon exposure to UV light, melanocytes can mutate, and tanning beds emit UV light at levels exceeding 10 times that of the sun. Gerami noted that the DNA mutation rate in tanning bed users is more than double compared to those with only outdoor sun exposure. “A few mutations in critical spots can lead to melanoma,” Gerami stated. “Tanning bed use can prime cells towards becoming melanoma.”

Youth Misconceptions About Tanning

A 2025 survey by the American Academy of Dermatology showed that Gen Z adults lack awareness about sun protection and often believe myths about tanning. Over 20% of young adults prioritize tanning over skin protection, and more than half believe in myths like a “base tan” offering sunburn protection.

Videos on TikTok mock expert warnings about the risks of unprotected UV exposure, falsely suggesting that sunscreen causes cancer or that tanning during peak UV times is beneficial. Experts advise against these practices.

Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, remarked, “Tanning is gaining popularity again, shadowing previous education on skin cancer and aging for the younger crowd.” Rossi once used tanning beds and understands their allure, but he later developed a non-melanoma skin cancer after stopping their use. “There is no safe tan,” he affirmed.

Regulatory Challenges with Tanning Beds

The World Health Organization has classified tanning beds as a carcinogen, comparable to tobacco and asbestos. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, using tanning beds before age 20 increases melanoma risk by 47%.

California was the first to ban tanning beds for minors in 2012, followed by over a dozen states implementing similar regulations. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration withdrew a proposed rule in March initially introduced in 2015 to prohibit tanning bed use by those under 18. The FDA cited “concerns regarding possible unintended consequences,” leading to mixed reactions from experts.

Engaging Teens on Tanning Dangers

Communicating with teenagers about the dangers of tanning can be challenging, as they often struggle to consider long-term health consequences. Sherry Pagoto, a psychologist and University of Connecticut professor, suggested focusing on physical appearance as a communication strategy. “This resonates with them because of their motivations,” she said.

Parents can discuss how excessive sun exposure affects skin appearance, causing it to look leathery or wrinkled. Taking teens to a dermatologist for a UV photo showing hidden skin damage may impact their views.

Pagoto emphasized the importance of parents modeling safe behavior, as teenage girls often mimic parental habits. Encouraging self-tanner use and ensuring sunscreen availability can steer them away from harmful tanning practices. “Change requires time. If feeling frustrated, parents might need patience for their child’s process to develop,” Pagoto advised.