What Will It Take to Get Young People to Stop Tanning (Again)?
Young people are increasingly moving away from indoor tanning, with only about 3% of young adults and teenagers currently using tanning beds. This shift is attributed to changing cultural attitudes, increased awareness of health risks, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many college campuses have also severed ties with tanning salons, leading to a decline in availability.
- ▪Only about 3% of young adults and teenagers currently use tanning beds, down from 8.6% in 2013.
- ▪Many college campuses have stopped offering free or reduced-price tanning services.
- ▪A 2025 study found that indoor tanning can triple the risk of skin cancer compared to those who have never tanned indoors.
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INVESTIGATIONWhat Will It Take to Get Young People to Stop Tanning (Again)?A public health crisis is unfolding on the lawns and rooftops and quads of America: Gen Z is chasing the sun with the zeal of the Bain de Soleil era.By Kara NesvigMay 21, 2026Photo: Sebastian MaderSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this storyIf your college schedule looked anything like mine, you had a biology lecture at 8 a.m., your news reporting and writing class (that one came in handy) at 11, then a visit to the tanning salon around the corner before a 3 p.m. study group.A few weeks ago, I took a drive through my alma mater, the University of Minnesota.
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