Tanning Bed Users Face Tripled Risk of DNA Damage Across Entire Skin Surface

Tanning Bed Industry Faces Growing Scrutiny Amid Rising Skin Cancer Concerns A recent study published in the journal Science Advances has found that tanning bed users are nearly three times as likely to develop DNA damage that can lead to melanoma across nearly the entire surface of their skin. This alarming trend has significant implications for the tanning bed industry, which has been experiencing a decline in recent years. According to a 2025 survey from the American Academy of Dermatology, 20% of Gen Z respondents prioritize getting a tan over protecting their skin, while 25% believe it's worth looking great now even if it means looking worse later. This shift in consumer behavior is a major concern for companies in the tanning bed industry, which have seen a decline in sales and revenue in recent years. The financial impact of this trend is significant. In 2025, the global tanning bed market was valued at $1.3 billion, down from $1.8 billion in 2015. The decline in sales has led to a decrease in revenue for companies such as Sunkist Tan, which reported a 15% decline in revenue in 2025 compared to the previous year. The market impact of this trend is also being felt by companies that sell tanning bed-related products, such as lotions and sprays. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global tanning bed accessories market is expected to decline by 10% in 2025 due to the growing concerns over skin cancer. The tanning bed industry has a long history, dating back to the 1960s when the first tanning beds were introduced. Since then, the industry has grown rapidly, with the number of tanning beds in the United States increasing from 1,000 in 1960 to over 170,000 in 2005. However, in recent years, the industry has faced growing scrutiny over the health risks associated with tanning beds. The American Academy of Dermatology has been a vocal critic of the tanning bed industry, warning consumers about the dangers of indoor tanning. In 2025, the organization launched a public awareness campaign to educate consumers about the risks of skin cancer associated with tanning beds. The future outlook for the tanning bed industry is uncertain. While some companies are exploring new technologies, such as LED-based tanning beds that emit less UV radiation, others are facing increased regulatory scrutiny. In 2025, the FDA announced plans to ban the sale of tanning beds to minors, which could further exacerbate the decline in sales. As the tanning bed industry continues to face growing concerns over skin cancer, companies will need to adapt to changing consumer behavior and regulatory requirements. Those that fail to do so may face significant financial and reputational consequences.