Understanding reasons for indoor tanning and the acceptability of alternatives
Lyons, S. Eden, M. Epton, T. Marais, Richard Payne, K. Green, Adèle C
Lyons, S.
Eden, M.
Epton, T.
Marais, Richard
Payne, K.
Green, Adèle C
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Abstract
Despite clear evidence showing the increased risk of melanoma and other skin cancers, people continue to use indoor tanning devices (‘sunbeds’). We therefore aimed to understand the factors driving the use of sunbeds and potential acceptable alternatives among users. We first performed a qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) of the relevant qualitative literature via systematic bibliographic searches in MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Web of Knowledge and CINAHL (from database inception to June 2019). Using predefined criteria, two researchers identified 17 studies for inclusion, covering 697 indoor tanners. The QES used iterative themes and concepts from previous interpretations of qualitative data to consolidate all existing evidence. We next conducted a new qualitative study in a purposive sample of 19 current sunbed users ascertained through advertisements in newspapers and via the internet and social media, using focus groups (n = 4) and individual interviews (n = 15). The majority of the sample were female (n = 17), and working adults (n = 10) or students (n = 9). Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis involving repeated readings of verbatim transcripts, generating initial codes and grouping these semantically to create themes. Codes and themes were agreed by two experienced researchers. The findings from both studies were congruent and indicated that users are motivated to indoor tan to meet aesthetic ideals and to experience several expected physical and psychological benefits including a reduction in sunburn, improvement in skin conditions such as acne, lifted mood and increased confidence. Alternatives to indoor tanning, such as sunless tanning lotions or makeup were deemed unacceptable owing to the perceived poorer quality of the aesthetic, the effort of application and their lower availability. Users were aware of the risks of indoor tanning, but they downplayed their personal relevance, thus allowing themselves to continue using tanning devices. To reduce the ongoing harm from sunbed use, there is an urgent need for new strategies to reduce indoor tanning, including further research to identify acceptable topical alternatives
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Date
2020
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Collections
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Meetings and Proceedings
Citation
Lyons S, Eden M, Epton T, Lorigan PC, Marais R, Payne K, et al. Understanding reasons for indoor tanning and the acceptability of alternatives. British Journal of Dermatology. 2020;183:58-.