Policies and Practices for Cancer Prevention: Indoor Tanning Among Minors

Indoor tanning (using a tanning bed, booth, sunbed, or sunlamp to get tan) exposes users to high levels of ultraviolet (UV) rays for the purpose of getting a tan. Too much exposure to UV rays increases a person’s risk of getting skin cancer, including melanoma, which can be deadly. Indoor tanning is especially risky for young people, and protecting young people from the harms of indoor tanning may help prevent future cases of skin cancer.

Public health efforts by state and local agencies can help. These efforts range from communication and educational strategies that increase knowledge and awareness, to research and surveillance that can support strategies to restrict youth access to indoor tanning. This publication provides information about indoor tanning among minors and promising strategies for reducing indoor tanning among minors in your community.