Despite being raised with ample sunscreen, rash guards, and cute, floppy sun hats, Generation Z is defying expectations with its enthusiastic embrace of tanning. Instead of steadfastly protecting their skin, Gen Z is flipping the script by seeking out the sun’s strongest rays, using low-SPF tanning lotions, and hopping into tanning beds with gusto.
I know you might be asking.
“Hold on a second. Isn’t this the same generation that’s fixated on skincare?”
Ironically enough, yes, it is. Today, we’ll get to the bottom of why Generation Z has become so dangerously obsessed with tanning and what risks they’re taking to get that sun-kissed glow.
What’s Going On?
Gen Z’s obsession with tanning is largely fueled by social media aesthetics, a culture that equates a “bronzed glow” with status, and widespread online misinformation about sun safety. Despite their investment in expensive skincare routines, many young adults prioritize the immediate confidence boost of a tan over long-term skin health.
Here are the key factors that are driving the tanning trend:
Social Media Aesthetics: The early-2000s aesthetic has made a significant comeback. Trends like stark, dramatic tan lines, “Manhattan Cocktail” routines (combining tanning beds with spray tans), and tanning oil hacks have become popular and frequently go viral on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
The “Euro Summer” Status Symbol: Scrolling past influencers constantly vacationing in Europe has tied dark, tanned skin to an image of wealth, luxury, and an active, jet-setting lifestyle.
Camera Confidence: According to a 2026 survey conducted by the Canadian Dermatology Association, 45% of Gen Z tanners use tanning to boost their confidence, while 37% believe it enhances their appearance in photos. Additionally, tanning is widely used as a slimming visual technique on social media.
Misinformation and Sunscreen Distrust: Some online circles are pushing unproven theories that daily sunscreen use is more toxic than the sun itself.
The “Base Tan” Fallacy: Many teenagers and young adults mistakenly believe that intentionally getting a “base tan” or even a sunburn early in the season protects their skin from more severe and permanent damage later in life.
UV Index Tracking: Instead of seeking shade based on the UV Index, many young people are using weather apps to deliberately search for “peak UV hours” to maximize their sun exposure.
Apathy Toward Long-Term Risks: A substantial portion of Gen Z individuals exhibit a sense of invincibility regarding aging and skin cancer. A survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatologists reveals that approximately 20% of Gen Z adults prioritize getting a tan over preventing skin cancer.
Many Gen Zers admit they would rather look “great” today, even if it means looking worse later in life. This aesthetic preference has even given rise to viral slogans on TikTok like “rather die hot than live ugly.”
The Risks of Tanning
As most of us are aware, tanning significantly increases the risk of developing life-threatening skin cancers, accelerates premature skin aging, and causes permanent damage to our skin’s cellular DNA. Contrary to popular belief, a tan is not a sign of a “healthy glow” but rather a biological distress signal indicating that our skin cells have suffered genetic damage from ultraviolet radiation.
The primary health and cosmetic risks associated with tanning, whether from natural sunlight or indoor tanning beds, include:
Elevated Risk of Skin Cancer: Tanning poses a heightened risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the most aggressive and lethal form. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation can also lead to basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the most prevalent types of skin cancer. Furthermore, unprotected sun exposure can result in the development of pre-cancerous lesions known as actinic keratoses. These rough, scaly skin patches can potentially progress into squamous cell cancer if left untreated.
Premature Skin Aging: Excessive sun exposure can lead to various skin issues, including collagen breakdown, changes in skin texture, and hyperpigmentation. UV radiation destroys the structural collagen and elastin fibers that maintain skin firmness. Moreover, UV rays can cause skin to become thick, leathery, and deeply wrinkled. Chronic sun exposure also overstimulates melanocytes (cells in the skin and eyes that produce and contain melanin), resulting in permanent dark spots and an uneven, blotchy complexion.
Severe Eye Damage: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the natural lens of the eye, leading to cataracts. This condition causes clouding of the lens, which can eventually lead to blindness. Additionally, photokeratitis, commonly referred to as “sunburn of the eye,” is a painful condition that temporarily impairs vision and damages the cornea. Lastly, unprotected sun exposure can cause ocular melanoma, a condition where the delicate tissues in and around the eyes develop aggressive and dangerous tumors.
Immune System Suppression: UV radiation weakens the immune cells in your skin, limiting your body’s natural ability to destroy early cancer cells and increasing your susceptibility to infectious diseases.
Behavioral Changes: Emerging research reveals that tanning can indeed become a genuine addiction. Frequent tanners often experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, or depressive moods when they try to stop exposing themselves to UV radiation.
Safer Alternatives to Tanning
Sunless self-tanners, professional spray tans, and bronzing makeup are the safest alternatives to tanning. They provide a bronzed look without exposing your skin to harmful ultraviolet radiation. So, if you’re still looking for a sun-kissed glow, consider these options:
At-Home Self-Tanners: These products use dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a temporary, FDA-approved color additive that reacts with the dead cells on your skin’s surface layer to darken it. The color these products provide generally lasts for 3 to 10 days.
If you’re new to self-tanning, gradual lotions are the best choice for beginners as they build a subtle glow over several days of daily application. Mousses and foams are lightweight and fast-drying, making them ideal for individuals who are experienced with rapid blending. Tanning drops are also a convenient alternative as they use concentrated formulas that can be mixed directly into your favorite face or body moisturizer.
Professional Spray Tans: A spray tan usually involves an esthetician (or an automated booth) applying a fine, even mist of DHA over your whole body. Spray tans offer highly precise, streak-free shades matched to your specific skin tone. Note: If you’re considering a spray tan, the FDA recommends protecting your mucous membranes by wearing a mask, lip balm, and nose plugs to avoid inhaling the spray.
Wash-Off Bronzers and Makeup: These products offer instant, commitment-free color that completely washes away with soap and water. Body bronzers, such as tinted oils, creams, or shimmer lotions, add color and depth. Face powders or tinted moisturizers can provide a healthy glow when applied to the high points of your face where the sun naturally hits.
Even if you opt for a safer tanning alternative, there are still important considerations to keep in mind. Always perform a patch test before using a new tanning product, or consult a dermatologist to find the best option for your skin. Remember, sunless tanners don’t offer UV protection, so it’s crucial to apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher when outdoors. Additionally, steer clear of unregulated self-tanning alternatives like nasal sprays or DIY concoctions.
Final Thoughts
While the resurgence of tanning is concerning and appears to be a step backward in our journey toward healthier skincare habits, experts believe it presents an opportunity to reevaluate the current discourse on tanning. Education is crucial to combating this dangerous trend, and dermatologists and other skincare professionals must continue to raise awareness of the risks of UV exposure and promote healthier alternatives. Encouraging daily use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days, is essential for protecting skin health. Additionally, embracing natural skin tones and promoting body positivity can help shift beauty standards away from the harmful pursuit of tanning.