Are tanning apps safe for young people?

No, these apps promote dangerous tanning routines and UV exposure, which can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer, especially for young people.

What is the truth about tanning and skin cancer risk?

Dermatologists state that a tan from UV exposure is a sign of skin damage, and there is no such thing as a safe tan; early-life UV damage significantly increases lifetime skin cancer risk.

Why are tanning apps a concern for public health?

Tanning apps promote dangerous tanning trends that undermine public health efforts to combat skin cancer and raise awareness about the risks of UV radiation.

Home / Health / Teens Targeted by Dangerous Tanning Apps

Teens Targeted by Dangerous Tanning Apps

8 Feb

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Summary

Smartphone apps promote dangerous tanning routines to young Australians.
Dermatologists warn there is no such thing as a safe tan from UV.
Some teens wrongly believe tanning protects against skin cancer.

Teens Targeted by Dangerous Tanning Apps

Young people in Australia are being influenced by smartphone applications promoting tanning routines, contributing to a concerning resurgence in tanning culture. These apps, some even suggesting suitability for users aged four, guide individuals on sun exposure durations to achieve specific skin tones like "espresso glow" or "golden bronze".

Medical professionals strongly dispute the notion of a "safe tan" from UV radiation, explaining that any skin colour change signifies cellular damage. They warn that UV exposure, especially in youth, elevates the lifelong risk of developing skin cancer due to DNA mutations. The Cancer Council Victoria highlights that these apps undermine decades of public health campaigns aimed at reducing tanning behaviours.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.