Despite widespread warnings regarding skin cancer and premature wrinkles, a significant number of individuals continue to use tanning beds. New research, published in the journal Science Advances, sheds light on the precise extent of harm indoor tanning inflicts on the skin, linking it to a three-times greater risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Furthermore, the study revealed that tanning can fundamentally alter DNA, thereby establishing a basis for future skin cancer development. This information is particularly pertinent given that over 20 percent of Gen Z individuals, according to a recent American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) survey, prioritize a tan over skin health.

The study, led by Pedram Gerami, MD, director of the Skin Cancer Institute of Northwestern Medicine, and co-authored by Alan Hunter Shain, PhD, an associate professor in the Department of Dermatology at University of California San Francisco, compared the medical records of nearly 3,000 patients with a history of using tanning beds against a demographically similar group who abstained from indoor tanning. Researchers discovered that 5.1 percent of the indoor tanning group developed melanoma, starkly contrasting with 2.1 percent in the non-tanning group. Crucially, indoor tanners exhibited DNA damage capable of leading to melanoma across nearly all skin surfaces. These damaging effects were most pronounced on body areas that typically receive less exposure to natural sunlight. The research also established a “dose-dependent relationship,” indicating that increased frequency of indoor tanning directly correlates with a higher risk of melanoma.

The established link between indoor tanning and elevated skin cancer risk is not new, with explicit warnings from organizations like the AAD and American Cancer Society (ACS). According to Dr. Shain, indoor tanning significantly increases the mutation burden of skin cells. While most mutations are benign, some can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, escalating the probability of cancer development. Moreover, tanning beds expose a much larger area of the body to radiation compared to typical sunlight exposure, which primarily affects the head, neck, and some extremities. This widespread exposure explains why melanomas in tanning bed users can appear on body sites that rarely see natural sun.

Dr. Gerami highlights the profound, long-term consequences of these choices made in youth. As adults, these patients frequently face regular skin examinations, numerous biopsies, the anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis, and repeated medical procedures. Tragically, some may even succumb to melanoma. The mechanism behind this DNA damage is the potent UV radiation emitted by tanning beds. Dr. Shain notes that the doses of UV radiation in tanning beds are often higher than natural sunlight, and the wavelengths of radiation emitted can also differ. Once this DNA damage occurs, Dr. Gerami emphasizes that it is irreversible.

In light of these findings, dermatologists strongly advise against using indoor tanning beds. Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, unequivocally states, “Just don't do it.” He warns that tanning, whether indoor or outdoor, can be addictive, making it crucial never to start. For those desiring a tanned appearance, Dr. Goldenberg recommends using self-tanner as a completely safe alternative for achieving a year-round glow.