Tanning Behavior of London-Area Youth
Background: The World Health Organization recommends that tanning parlors not be used by individuals under age 18 years. The impact of self-tanners on tanning parlor and sunscreen use by Canadian teens is unknown. Objective: To determine teens' use of, knowledge of, attitudes toward, and behavior regarding tanning parlors, self-tanning products, and sunscreen. Methods: Self-report questionnaire of grade 10 students in Thames Valley district, Ontario. Results: Indoor tanning parlors were used by 14%, self-tanners by 28%, and sunscreen daily or most days by 36%. Use was more common in females. There was a strong association between parental and child use of tanning parlors and use of self-tanners. Sixty-two percent believe that self-tanners give adequate photoprotection. Conclusions: Further education is required to address teen tanning parlor use, infrequent sunscreen use, and lack of knowledge about the safety of tanning parlors and self-tanning products.