Indoor Tanning
The Issue
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is known to be the single largest environmental factor in the development of skin cancer. It is further known that UV radiation levels in indoor tanning devices can be up to fifteen times greater than what one would be exposed to outdoors. Additionally, recent studies at Wake Forest University and the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have shown that frequent tanners exhibit some of the same characteristics as other substance abusers.
Skin cancer rates in the United States have reached epidemic proportions. Each year, there are more than one million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed, and at current rates, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their life. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is now the second most common cancer in women aged 20-29.
Dermatologists believe it is important to protect the public through appropriate regulation of the indoor tanning industry. This includes indoor tanning facilities being open and honest with consumers about the dangers associated with indoor tanning, providing proper sanitation for tanning equipment, and ensuring that parents are adequately involved in their child's decision to tan.
Background
Tanning is the body's reaction to UV radiation. It is a process whereby the skin produces pigment (coloring) to protect itself from ultraviolet radiation. Many tanning advocates will claim that indoor tanning is safe and free from risk, because it takes place within a controlled environment. However, injury from burning can occur from both indoor and outdoor tanning. Indoor tanners are particularly susceptible to burning because of the highly concentrated doses of UV radiation tanning beds emit. This is why it is crucial to have tanning salon operators that are properly trained and educated regarding timers on tanning devices, recognition of various skin types, and manufacturer recommended exposure times.
Indoor tanning facilities are only regulated at the state or county level. Some tanning advocates claim that enacting regulation at the state or county level is overly burdensome due to existing regulations at the federal level. Federal regulations only relate to indoor tanning devices. They determine how devices are constructed, requirements for timers, and labeling of the devices.
In order to adequately protect public health and safety, regulations are needed at the state or local level.
For more information regarding state initiatives focused on Indoor Tanning, please contact Kathryn Guccione, assistant director of State Policy at kguccione@aad.org or 202-712-2615.
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