Over the last couple of years, tanning beds have been making an unexpected comeback in popularity. Once a staple of 1990s and early 2000s beauty culture, indoor tanning started to decline due to increased awareness of its dangers. However, new statistics indicate that more people, particularly among Gen Z, are turning to tanning beds again. While this trend may seem harmless, it raises significant concerns about public health, societal beauty standards, and the ongoing need for sun safety education.
In this article, we’ll get into:
- The reasons behind this comeback
- The health risks involved
- Why sunscreen remains the most effective product in the fight against skin damage and cancer.
The Statistics Behind the Comeback
According to a survey published by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), twenty-eight percent of Gen Z respondents said getting a tan was more important to them than preventing skin cancer, with 70% reporting tanned or darker skin in 2023. This uptick is particularly pronounced in women, with nearly 20% of young women reporting having used a tanning bed in the past year. This is a stark reversal of the downward trend seen over the past decade.
The World Health Organization classifies tanning beds as a Group 1 carcinogen, emphasizing that their use can increase the risk of skin cancer by up to 75% when used before the age of 35. Despite these alarming statistics, the appeal of tanning beds persists, often fueled by societal pressures and beauty standards perpetuated through social media.
What’s Driving the Increase in Tanning Bed Use?
Several factors have contributed to this renewed interest in tanning beds:
The Social Media Effect
The influence of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok cannot be overstated. The concept of the "sun-kissed glow" remains a popular beauty ideal, propagated by influencers and celebrities who showcase flawless, bronzed skin. Many young people feel pressured to conform to these standards, often turning to tanning beds as a quick and easy solution.
Misperceptions About Safety
Misinformation has played a significant role in the tanning bed revival. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence linking indoor tanning to skin cancer, the perception that artificial tanning is less harmful persists. Some tanning salons market their services as "safe" or "controlled," further contributing to confusion.
Desire for Instant Results
In a world where immediacy is highly valued, tanning beds offer a quick solution to achieving a desired skin tone. This contrasts with traditional sunbathing, which requires more time and carries risks such as sunburn.
Accessibility and Affordability
Tanning salons have adapted to attract a younger and broader demographic. Many now offer discounted memberships, student deals, and extended hours, making tanning beds more accessible than ever before.
Why This Trend Is a Huge Problem
The resurgence of tanning beds isn’t just a harmless fad—it’s a dangerous trend with serious health implications. Here’s why:
Skin Cancer Risks
Tanning beds are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the World Health Organization (WHO), putting them in the same category as tobacco and asbestos. Studies show that using a tanning bed before age 35 increases the risk of melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer—by 75%. Even occasional use can significantly damage skin cells and increase the likelihood of developing other types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Premature Aging
Beyond cancer, tanning beds accelerate the aging process. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and sunspots. This effect is often referred to as "photoaging." Ironically, many people who use tanning beds to look younger and healthier end up aging their skin prematurely.
Eye Damage
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation in tanning beds can cause severe eye damage, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even ocular melanoma. While tanning goggles are provided, many users fail to wear them properly or skip them altogether.
Addiction Potential
The concept of "tanning addiction" is gaining recognition in medical circles. Research suggests that UV exposure can trigger the release of endorphins, leading to a feeling of euphoria. This can result in compulsive tanning behavior, even when users are aware of the risks.
The Importance of Sunscreen and Sun Safety
While the dangers of UV exposure are well-documented, the solution is simple: sunscreen. Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapplied every two hours, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows.
Sunscreen not only protects against harmful UV radiation but also helps prevent premature aging and hyperpigmentation. Coupled with other sun safety practices, such as wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sun hours, sunscreen is an essential tool in reducing the risk of skin damage and cancer.
Changing the Narrative Around Tanning
To combat the resurgence of tanning beds, it’s crucial to shift cultural attitudes about beauty and skin health. Here are some ways to foster change:
- Promoting Body Positivity: Encouraging people to embrace their natural skin tones—whether fair, olive, or dark—can help reduce the pressure to tan.
- Educating the Public: Clear and consistent messaging about the dangers of tanning beds is essential. Schools, healthcare providers, and influencers can play a role in spreading awareness.
- Legislation: Many countries and states have implemented laws restricting tanning bed use for minors. Expanding these efforts to include stricter regulations for adults could help curb the trend.
The comeback of tanning beds is a troubling reminder of how beauty standards and misinformation can override public health concerns. Additionally, promoting alternative tanning methods, such as self-tanners and bronzers, can provide a safer way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the associated risks.
As we navigate this resurgence, it’s important to educate ourselves and others about the importance of sun safety. Embracing natural beauty, using sunscreen diligently, and prioritizing health over aesthetics can pave the way for a safer, more informed future. After all, the real glow comes from healthy, protected skin—not harmful UV rays.
Image credits: Antonio Gravate/khz/ivanstajkovic via Canva Pro
