Nichole Sims began using tanning beds at the age of 15, influenced by the trend among her peers, especially before events such as homecoming dances and prom. Eight years later, she received a diagnosis of melanoma, a skin cancer that poses serious health risks. Sims has since observed the increasing popularity of tanning among young people online. To counter misinformation that promotes tanning as a mood enhancer and beauty necessity, she shares her personal story.
“I feel our generation tends to overlook risks and chooses to live in the moment,” Sims noted.
Experts Alarmed by Tanning Resurgence
Social media has played a role in reviving tanning as a trend among young adults. A particular video displaying a girl’s tanning secrets and her bikini tan line garnered over 11 million views, with comments joking about preferring a tan over being pale. The American Cancer Society estimates over 100,000 new melanoma diagnoses in the U.S. by 2026, with approximately 8,500 fatalities. Even more concerning, certain influencers are advocating for tanning bed use.
Sims commented, “In today’s world, being tan is equated with being pretty.”
The Link Between Tanning Beds and Cancer Risk
Dr. Pedram Gerami and his team at Northwestern University’s medical school investigated the cellular effects on those using tanning beds. Their research showed that tanning bed users faced nearly three times the risk of developing melanoma compared to non-users. By comparing skin samples from tanning bed users with non-users, his team analyzed DNA sequences in melanocytes, which can evolve into moles, melanoma, or other cancers.
Exposure to UV light causes melanocytes to mutate. Tanning beds can emit UV light over ten times stronger than the sun. According to Gerami, the mutation rate in tanning bed users was more than double that of those who only experienced outdoor UV exposure.
“A few mutations in the right spots can lead to melanoma,” Gerami explained. “Tanning beds expedite the mutation process.”
Youth Misconceptions About Tanning
A 2025 American Academy of Dermatology survey found Gen Z adults lacking awareness about sun protection. The survey revealed that over 20% of young adults prioritized tanning over skin protection, with over half believing myths like a “base tan” offering sunburn protection.
Numerous TikTok videos mock expert warnings about skin cancer risks tied to unprotected UV exposure, falsely claiming sunscreen causes cancer. Some content suggests tanning under high UV index conditions, which experts advise against.
“Tanning is popular again, overshadowing education on skin cancer and aging for younger generations,” said Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
FDA’s Withdrawn Regulation on Tanning Beds
The World Health Organization classifies tanning beds in the same cancer-causing category as tobacco and asbestos. The American Academy of Dermatology states that using tanning beds before age 20 raises melanoma risk by 47%. California led by banning tanning beds for minors in 2012, with over a dozen states following suit. Yet, in March, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration retracted a proposed rule banning tanning beds for minors, citing “possible unintended consequences.”
Addressing Tanning Dangers with Teens
Teenagers often struggle to consider long-term health risks, but Sherry Pagoto, a psychologist at the University of Connecticut, offers insight into effective communication. “Focus on appearance, as it drives their actions,” Pagoto advised.
Instead of discussing skin cancer, parents should highlight how excessive sun exposure can cause leathery or wrinkly skin. Visiting a dermatologist for a UV photo showing unseen skin damage can be impactful. Parents should also demonstrate safe behaviors, as many teen girls adopt tanning habits from their mothers. Having sunscreen accessible and providing self-tanners can gently steer teens away from harmful tanning.
“Change requires patience,” Pagoto concluded. “Let their decision-making process develop over time.”