After years of declining use, things are heating up when it comes to tanning beds. They’re making an unexpected comeback, particularly among younger women.
A recent survey from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) highlights a shift in attitudes, with about 20% of Gen Z respondents saying they prioritize getting a tan over protecting their skin. And 1 in 4 admitted it’s worth it to look good now, even if it means dealing with consequences later.
That mindset is raising red flags that long-standing public health messaging about the dangers of tanning beds could be losing ground. At the same time, the policy landscape is evolving. In March 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration withdrew a proposed rule for a nationwide ban on tanning bed use for minors. Many states already have restrictions in place (Louisiana has prohibited tanning bed use for those under 18 since 2014), but enforcement varies widely. Without a consistent federal standard, access and oversight could remain a rocky situation.
That inconsistency matters because the risks are well established. Tanning beds can emit up to 15 times more ultraviolet (UV) radiation than the sun. This intense exposure damages the DNA in skin cells, increasing the likelihood of mutations that can lead to cancer. In fact, UV radiation is classified as a carcinogen in the same category as tobacco and asbestos, substances known to cause cancer over time.
New research reinforces just how serious that risk can be -- people who use tanning beds are nearly three times more likely to develop melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Researchers have also found widespread DNA damage across the skin of tanning bed users.
The danger is even greater for younger users. Using tanning beds before age 20 increases melanoma risk by nearly 50%. Yet despite this, misconceptions persist. The AAD survey found that nearly 60% of adult Gen Z respondents believe common tanning myths, like the idea that a “base tan” can prevent sunburn.
At the end of the day, the appeal of a quick tan may be strong, but so is the evidence. The question isn’t just whether people know the risks. It’s whether that knowledge is enough to change behavior – no matter your age -- before the damage is already done.