The Dangers of Artificial Tanning: An In-depth Look
Understanding Artificial Tanning Practices
In recent years, artificial tanning has become a widespread practice among individuals seeking to achieve a sun-kissed glow without enduring prolonged sun exposure. Many people turn to tanning beds, self-tanners, or tanning accelerators, believing these methods will provide a safer alternative to traditional tanning. However, recent studies suggest that this may not be the case.
Rising Popularity of UV Tanning
According to a 2023 survey conducted by Ipsos for the National Union of Dermatologists-Venereologists (SNDV), about 20% of French people admit to "prepping" their skin with artificial tanning before the summer season. This trend is particularly popular among young adults; about 33% of those aged 25–35 participate in this risky behavior. This growing inclination showcases a prevalent misunderstanding about tanning and its associated health risks.
Misconceptions About Tanning Safety
Many individuals who engage in artificial tanning mistakenly believe that it offers a sense of safety against sunburn. As the SNDV pointed out in a public statement, users often feel that using tanning beds for preparatory sessions minimizes the risks of sunburn. In reality, these practices significantly increase the likelihood of developing skin cancers. The false sense of security fostered by artificial tanning leads people to expose themselves to the sun recklessly, assuming that their bronzed skin is protective.
The Truth Behind Tanning Beds
The allure of tanning beds is deceptive. Although they can produce an attractive tan, the risks involved are alarming. In 2018, the National Health Security Agency (ANSES) cautioned that users might feel unnecessarily secure due to the absence of sunburn—an illusion that can lead to more severe consequences. Artificial UV exposure does not prepare the skin as many believe; it is just as harmful as, if not more harmful than, natural sunlight.
The cancer-causing effects of artificial UV exposure compound the risks associated with natural sun exposure. In fact, according to the National Cancer Institute (INCa), using artificial tanning devices is a more hazardous practice than exposure to unprotected sunlight.
Health Risks Linked to Artificial Tanning
Artificial UV light is classified as a "known carcinogen" by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 2009. Studies have shown that individuals who have utilized tanning beds even once are 15% more likely to develop melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. The risks are significantly heightened—59%—for those who start using tanning beds before the age of 35.
The INCa reports that tanning beds are responsible for approximately 380 new cases of melanoma annually in France alone. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for individuals to reconsider their tanning practices, especially young people who may not fully grasp the serious consequences.
Recommendations and Regulations
In light of these findings, the ANSES has advocated for an outright ban on the use of tanning beds since 2012. However, such devices are only restricted for minors in France. The general population remains at risk, particularly individuals with fair skin, numerous moles, or a family history of skin cancer.
For those looking to enjoy the sun without jeopardizing their health, it is essential to prioritize skin protection. Sunscreens, protective clothing, and seeking shade are recommended practices to mitigate harmful UV exposure.
Final Thoughts
Artificial tanning may offer an immediate aesthetic reward, but the long-term health risks are undeniably severe. The misconception that tanning beds provide a safe alternative to traditional sunbathing must be addressed. Public awareness campaigns, educational efforts, and regulatory changes are crucial in reducing the acceptance of artificial tanning practices.
The harmful effects of UV exposure—both natural and artificial—compromise skin health and raise serious concerns about skin cancers. Everyone should take proactive steps to protect themselves and others from these hidden dangers.
For many, being tanned is the summer’s goal. To achieve this, tanning enthusiasts often expose themselves for long hours in the sun, sometimes without sunscreen or any other protection. Others turn to aesthetic practices, such as self-tanners, dietary supplements, or UV booths.
According to a 2023 survey by Ipsos for the National Union of Dermatologists-Venereologists (SNDV), 20% of French people indeed say they “prepare” their skin for summer with artificial tanning in UV booths. Young people are particularly keen on this practice, as 33% of those aged 25-35 say they partake in it.
Followers of artificial tanning “still think that ‘preparing the skin’ with artificial UV booth sessions before summer reduces the dangers of sunburn, whereas, on the contrary, these practices considerably increase the risks of skin cancers,” the SNDV emphasized in a statement.
Artificial tanning, which has seen significant success in France since its rise in the 1970s and 80s, can give a false impression of being good for the skin and health. “Users may wrongly feel a sense of safety due to the absence of sunburn,” warned the National Health Security Agency (ANSES) in 2018. Individuals who use tanning devices may think that because they have tanned skin, they can sunbathe without risk, which is obviously not the case.
On the contrary, artificial UVs do not prepare the skin and are not less dangerous than the sun. “The practice of artificial tanning is more dangerous than exposure to the sun without protection. The cancerous effects of artificial UVs add to the natural UVs of the sun, thus strengthening their carcinogenic effect,” stresses the National Cancer Institute (INCa).
Artificial UVs have been classified as “certain carcinogens” by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 2009. Studies show that people who have used artificial tanning at least once in their lifetime have a 15% higher risk of developing melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer. “This melanoma risk increases by 59% when the use of artificial tanning devices begins before the age of 35,” reminds ANSES. According to INCa, “each year in France, tanning booths are responsible for 380 new cases of melanoma .”
Given these proven risks, ANSES has advocated since 2012 for the ban of UV booths. However, they are only prohibited for minors in France. Therefore, this practice is strongly discouraged, particularly for individuals with fair skin, numerous moles, a personal or family history of skin cancers, or those who had substantial sun exposure during childhood. To avoid risks to skin and health, it’s essential to protect oneself from UVs, both from booths and the sun!
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