Tanning Apps Promoting 'Safe' Sun Routines Criticized for Undermining Skin Cancer Prevention
Smartphone applications claiming to offer 'safe' tanning routines are under scrutiny for potentially endangering users by promoting harmful sun exposure practices. These apps, popular among young Australians, suggest tailored tanning schedules based on ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, misleadingly implying that gradual tanning is safe. Dr. Deshan Sebaratnam, a dermatologist, emphasizes that any tan indicates skin damage, contradicting the apps' claims. The Cancer Council Victoria's SunSmart program warns that these apps undermine public health efforts to reduce skin cancer risks, particularly among youth. Despite the apps' popularity, experts stress that UV exposure can cause DNA mutations leading to cancer, regardless of skin appearance.