Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Why Gen Z is turning to sunbeds

Young people are increasingly using sunbeds, fuelled by influencers’ claims on TikTok
Young people are increasingly using sunbeds, fuelled by influencers’ claims on TikTok (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
  • Gen Z is increasingly using sunbeds, viewing them as a form of self-care and wellness despite known health risks.
  • This trend is concerning as sunbed use, especially before 35, significantly increases the risk of skin cancer and premature ageing.
  • Social media platforms like TikTok are contributing to this trend, with influencers promoting sunbed use, often spreading misinformation about "safe tanning" and unregulated products.
  • While some users claim sunbeds relieve stress or boost vitamin D, these claims are misleading, and any tan is a sign of skin damage.
  • Doctors are observing a rise in sun damage and skin cancer among young people, highlighting the serious long-term consequences of sunbed use.
In full

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in