The dangers of indoor tanning
The World Health Organization has declared indoor tanning devices to be cancer-causing agents that are in the same category as tobacco. Studies have found a 75% increase in the risk of melanoma in those who have been exposed to UV radiation from indoor tanning.
To date, more than 30 states restrict access to indoor tanning equipment either through banning their use by minors or requiring parental consent. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) opposes indoor tanning and supports a ban on the production and sale of indoor tanning equipment for non-medical purposes.
The AADA also supports the WHO recommendation that minors should not use indoor tanning equipment. Unless and until the FDA bans the sale and use of indoor tanning equipment for non-medical purposes, the AADA supports restrictions for indoor tanning facilities, including: No person or facility should advertise the use of any UVA or UVB tanning device using wording such as “safe,” “safe tanning,” “no harmful rays,” “no adverse effect,” or similar wording or concepts.
Resources
- Jaime’s story
Jaime Regen Rea used tanning beds and spent time in the sun. After a nine-year struggle with melanoma, Jaime died of the disease just three weeks before her 30th birthday. In a powerful video series, Jaime’s family shares their real-life story.
- Indoor tanning risk fact sheet
Learn the stats and facts about indoor tanning and its risks.
- AAD position statement on indoor tanning
Read the Academy’s position statement on indoor tanning.
- Indoor tanning downloads
Download posters promoting awareness of the dangers of indoor tanning.