Salon.com > tanning

Finally: FDA cracks down on tanning

Tue, 07 May 2013 20:15:00 +0000

They're going to need a really big sticker on those beds. On Monday, the FDA announced that it is proposing new warning labels on indoor tanning.

The tactic, aimed at teens, wouldn't prohibit the use of tanning devices, but would require them to carry a warning of "the consequences" aimed at users under 18. The American Academy of Dermatology says there is a 75 percent increase in the risk of melanoma for "those who have been exposed to ultraviolet radiation from indoor tanning, and the risk increases with each use." Brace yourselves now for the inevitable backlash from the tanning industry, which has already been none too pleased with the push for stricter regulation in several states.

Sunscreen: Worse than cigarettes?

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 20:45:00 +0000

Sucks to be you, tanning industry. Sure, people are still using tanning beds, but with melanoma rates on the rise, you're being restricted from peddling your golden promises to adolescents in several states. And now Pennsylvania is considering requiring you to post warnings about the dangers of your services. These days, you're more associated with leathery New Jersey moms than the glow of good health. No wonder you're so pissy lately.

Weird News: Tan mom goes pale

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 22:09:00 +0000

Not everyone looks better with a tan.

Patricia Krentcil of Nutley, NJ, was dubbed "Tanning Mom" when she was seen bringing her six-year-old daughter inside a tanning booth this year. She pleaded innocent in early May, and images of her deep bronze, leathery skin stoked enough controversy that actress Kristen Wiig mocked Nutley in a skit on Saturday Night Live.

Never one to pass up a good photo-op, In Touch convinced Krentcil to shun sun for a month and pose for pictures. She told the tabloid, "Everyone says I look so much better less tan." NPR provides the stunning before and after pictures. Meanwhile, New York State is considering a law that would ban anyone 16 or younger from catching artificial rays, The New York Times reported in June.