Nichole Sims’ Experience With Tanning
Nichole Sims began using tanning beds at the age of 15, influenced by the common practice among peers, particularly before events like homecoming and prom. Eight years later, she received a melanoma diagnosis. Sims has witnessed the growing popularity of tanning among young people online and strives to challenge the false beliefs regarding tanning as a mood enhancer and beauty essential by sharing her story.
“Our generation doesn’t often investigate risks. They tend to live in the moment,” Sims expressed. Experts worry about the resurgence of tanning among young adults, fueled by social media. A video showcasing tanning secrets and a bikini tan line has gained over 11 million views, with viewers making light of the situation by commenting that they prefer to be tan rather than pale.
The Growing Threat of Melanoma
The American Cancer Society predicts that over 100,000 new melanomas will be diagnosed in the U.S. by 2026, with nearly 8,500 fatalities expected. Alarmingly, some influencers promote tanning bed use. “Young people equate being tan with beauty,” Sims noted.
Tanning Beds and Cancer Risks
Dr. Pedram Gerami from Northwestern University’s medical school explored the cellular impact on tanning bed users. His research indicated that these users had almost three times the melanoma risk compared to non-users. By comparing skin samples from tanning bed users with those who only experienced sun exposure, his team analyzed melanocytes’ DNA sequences. Melanocytes exposed to UV light can mutate, and tanning beds emit over 10 times the UV light that the sun does.
Gerami found that melanocytes in tanning bed users have a DNA mutation rate more than double that of nonusers. “Even a few mutations can lead to melanoma,” Gerami emphasized, noting that tanning bed usage primes these cells for mutation.
Misconceptions About Tanning Among Youth
Gen Z adults are less knowledgeable about sun protection and more prone to believe myths regarding tanning, as reported by a 2025 American Academy of Dermatology survey. Over 20% of young adults prioritize tanning over skin protection, and more than half mistakenly believe that having a base tan prevents sunburn.
Some TikTok content mocks expert warnings, falsely claiming that sunscreen causes cancer. Others encourage tanning during peak UV hours, contrary to expert advice to avoid sun exposure. Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist, remarked that tanning is popular again, overshadowing education about skin cancer and aging. Despite understanding the allure of tanning beds from personal experience, Rossi developed non-melanoma skin cancer years after ceasing usage. “No tan is safe,” he stated.
FDA’s Stance on Tanning Bed Regulation
The World Health Organization classifies tanning beds alongside tobacco and asbestos as cancer-causing agents. Using tanning beds before the age of 20 can increase melanoma risk by 47%, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. California led the way by banning tanning beds for minors in 2012, followed by more than a dozen states, with many demanding parental consent.
However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration retracted a proposed rule in March prohibiting those under 18 from using tanning beds, citing concerns about unintended consequences, which has caused concern among experts about the mixed messages conveyed.
Approaching the Tanning Issue With Teens
Convincing teenagers to understand long-term health impacts is challenging, but communication strategies exist, said Sherry Pagoto, a psychologist at the University of Connecticut, who has researched tanning behaviors extensively. Pagoto suggests focusing on physical appearance, which drives tanning habits, rather than solely discussing skin cancer.
Parents can highlight how excessive sun exposure affects skin, leading to leathery textures or wrinkles. A dermatologist can demonstrate invisible damage using UV photos. Modeling safe behavior, as teen girls often emulate their mothers, is crucial. Providing sunscreen at home and offering self-tanner are gentle ways to shift their preferences away from harmful tanning.
“Change can take time, and patience is key to allowing their process to unfold,” Pagoto recommended.