Characterization of tanning behavior assessed via online survey: Attitudes, habits, and preventive measures with focus on sunscreen use

Abstract

Background/purpose: Incidence of melanoma is increasing globally. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) as important risk factor for developing skin cancer can be influenced by tanning behavior. Only a few studies are available concerning sun tanning behavior and protective measures.Methods: An online survey was distributed via social media to assess tanning habits and examine associated demographic and behavioral factors. Results:In total, 403 questionnaires were distributed, and mean age of respondents was 32. Having a tanned skin, feeling warm and relaxed were the most common motivations for tanning. The use of sunscreen varied and seemed to depend on the occasion of UVR exposure, constantly applied during vacation and during tanning, less commonly applied in daily life and during work. Avoiding painful solar dermatitis was more important as motivation for the use of sunscreen than skin cancer prevention. Skin aging as reason for the use of sunscreen was especially important for females younger than 26 years. The most common applied sun protection factor was 16-49. The main reason opposing the use of sunscreen was a too laborious usage, which was significantly associated with male.Beauty was the only association related to tanned skin the majority (62%) agreed with. Conclusion:The motivation for tanning and reasons for avoiding sunscreen strongly varies. Knowledge about these factors could be used for improving campaigns with respect to target groups. Clarifying the appropriate application of sunscreen, developing convenient sunscreen formulations and providing information about UVRinduced skin aging could lead to an increased usage of sunscreen and therefore to an improved UVR protection. K E Y W O R D Smelanoma, sunscreen, tanning, ultraviolet radiation | INTRODUC TI ONSeveral skin cancer campaigns focus on promoting the awareness of natural and artificial ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure being a risk factor for skin cancer and aging. To successfully implement such campaigns, the identification of risk groups for future UVR damage due to high-risk tanning behavior is crucial. A Danish group found associations between high-risk tanning behavior like frequent sunbathing,

Analysis of Internet searches using Google Trends to measure interest in sun protection and skin cancer in selected South‐East Asian populations

“…The Asian beauty ideal of fair skin can be contrasted with the European ideal of tanned skin to signify beauty and health, such as demonstrated in the German population. 34 The search interest in German-speaking countries reflect this trend, with more queries for tanning beds compared with sunscreen. 24 South-East Asia does not experience four seasons, and hence, regional search patterns would be less likely to exhibit seasonality.…”

“…Moreover, the abundance of natural sunlight in the tropical climate further reduces the likelihood of the use of solaria and tanning beds given the prevailing cultural norms that value those with fairer complexions. The Asian beauty ideal of fair skin can be contrasted with the European ideal of tanned skin to signify beauty and health, such as demonstrated in the German population . The search interest in German‐speaking countries reflect this trend, with more queries for tanning beds compared with sunscreen .…”

Behaviors and Knowledge Related to Intentional Outdoor Tanning Among Adults in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia

“…This could be explained by the common misconception that applying sunscreen reduces the likelihood of achieving a tan. This is a lower percentage than in a study conducted in Germany, which found that 98% of its participants use sunscreen as a protective precaution while on vacation and slightly fewer while tanning 93% [ 17 ].…”

What Do Patients Want To See On Social Media? Evidence From A Two-Year Experiment

“…Therefore, focusing on popular topics can be a way to convey important messages about other important dermatological issues. Schneiderbanger et al [ 35 ] presented an interesting example of how dermatologists’ concerns about a disease (skin cancer) can be associated with the main interests of young females (skin aging). Since the prevention of skin aging seems to be an important concern among young females, a dermatologist could broadcast a video emphasizing the association between tanning and premature skin aging, thus helping discourage this behavior and, therefore, contributing to reducing the prevalence of skin cancer [ 35 ].…”