Reasons for using indoor tanning devices: A systematic review of qualitative evidence

Abstract

Despite the established causal links to skin cancer, skin ageing and eye inflammation, people continue to use indoor tanning devices (hereafter 'sunbeds'). Understanding the reasons underlying the use of sunbeds is essential for developing effective interventions. The purpose of this study was to collate all existing evidence from qualitative papers published to date that had assessed motivations for using sunbeds. Methods: Six databases were searched from inception to February 2020 for qualitative studies that explored adults' experiences of using sunbeds. Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria, and a narrative evidence synthesis was used to collate findings from each primary study. Results: Users of sunbeds were motivated primarily by aesthetic concerns but also by perceived psychological benefits (well-being, confidence and 'fitting in') and physical benefits (improvement in skin conditions such as acne, acquiring vitamin D and preventing sunburn). People also chose indoor tanning over alternatives such as fake tans because they considered the alternatives unacceptable and did not consider indoor tanning a serious health risk. To date, no studies have explored alternatives to meeting non-aesthetic needs related to the use of sunbeds.

Tanning bed use in Germany between 2015 and 2022: Representative data of 28,000 individuals on indoor tanning, risk awareness and reasons for use

“…For all three reasons, the agreement was higher in 2018 18 . The most important reasons are in line with international research 30,33,36,37 . Regarding health‐related reasons, that is vitamin D supplementation, health strengthening and physicians' recommendations, we found a higher agreement in the pooled data from 2019 to 2022 than in the data from 2018 18 .…”

“…18 The most important reasons are in line with international research. 30,33,36,37 Regarding healthrelated reasons, that is vitamin D supplementation, health strengthening and physicians' recommendations, we found a higher agreement in the pooled data from 2019 to 2022 than in the data from 2018. 18 This is concerning, because according to the WHO, the risks of tanning bed use outweigh its potential positive health effects.…”

“…32 The lowest agreement with the three items and therewith the lowest risk awareness was found for current tanning bed users. Other studies have also shown that tanning bed users do not consider their behaviour as a health risk 33 or downplay and minimize potential risks. 34 This calls for a targeted prevention strategy focusing on current users, with the aim of educating and informing users about the potential risks of indoor tanning.…”

A Social Media–Delivered Melanoma Prevention Program for Young Women Engaged in Frequent UV Tanning: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

“…Those experimenting with tanning may begin viewing it as a regular part of their beauty routine and transition to frequent use [ 27 ]. Relaxation expectancies are also a primary motive for tanning [ 28 ], which have been reinforced by a marketing approach emphasizing a spa-like experience or fitness or health amenities for tanning [ 29 ]. This marketing may contribute to tanners’ beliefs that tanning has positive health benefits by contributing to mental wellness or self-care [ 28 , 30 ].…”