Tanning Apps Pose Dangerous Risks, Experts Warn

Influencer-promoted apps undermine skin cancer prevention efforts by encouraging unsafe tanning practices

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:38pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph showing the internal structure of a tanning bed or tanning lotion bottle, with glowing lines and ghostly forms against a dark background, conceptually illustrating the hidden risks of UV exposure from these products.Beneath the surface of tanning apps and products lie the hidden dangers of UV radiation exposure, as revealed by this ghostly X-ray image.Toledo Today

Tanning apps that claim to offer 'safe' sun routines are actually undermining efforts to tackle skin cancer, according to experts. These apps, heavily promoted by influencers, are targeting young people as young as four with dangerous tanning advice, suggesting users choose their ideal skin color and select tanning intensity levels to achieve 'faster, deeper tanning'. Experts warn that any change in skin color indicates UV damage, and that using tanning accelerants or oils can increase photosensitivity and lead to severe burns.

Why it matters

The use of these tanning apps is a major concern, as UV damage early in life increases the lifetime risk of skin cancer. Experts emphasize that there is no such thing as a 'safe tan', and that the misinformation spread by these apps is undermining public health efforts to combat skin cancer, which claims around 2,000 lives in Australia each year.

The details

The apps suggest users choose their ideal skin color, from 'espresso glow' to 'golden bronze', and then select tanning intensity levels to achieve 'faster, deeper tanning'. Some even recommend adding body oils, tanning butters, and accelerants to the routine. This deliberate exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major concern, as any change in skin color indicates damage, regardless of how gradual it may seem. The use of tanning accelerants or oils is also risky, as they may contain ingredients that increase photosensitivity, leading to severe burns.

  • The Cancer Council Victoria's SunSmart program head, Emma Glassenbury, highlights the concern among parents about their children's tanning habits.

The players

Dr. Deshan Sebaratnam

A dermatologist who emphasizes that there is no such thing as a 'safe tan'.

Emma Glassenbury

The head of the Cancer Council Victoria's SunSmart program, who highlights the concern among parents about their children's tanning habits.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.