Teens Still Tanning

The journal, Pediatrics, just published a study showing that fewer than 50% of teens regularly use suncreen when spending time outdoors. The majority of those surveyed said they'd rather have a tan.

More than six in ten teens report not using sunscreen regularly.

This is cause for concern, as early suncare habits have direct impact on sun-safety later in life.

When teenagers did use sun protection, sunscreen was the most common form. Very few reported wearing hats, long pants, or staying in the shade.

Most teens surveyed said they felt and looked better with a tan. The survey didn't ask teens if they'd be as satisfied with tans from self-tanning lotions or cosmetics.

Even teens who applied sunscreen were not likely to reapply it after swimming or sweating.

These findings suggest that greater education- and more promotion of sun-safety is needed to teach teens in the 11-15 year age range the importance of good sun-safety.