It’s controversial, but some new studies suggest there may be people who have addictive behavior patterns when it comes to tanning and the use of UV tanning beds.
A recent study published in Archives of Dermatology, by researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and the University of Albany, found that 27 percent of college students surveyed have a psychological dependence on tanning in UV-light beds and booths.
The researchers suggested that the “tanning addiction” includes symptoms that are really quite similar to those that alcoholics or smokers experience, such as tanning with ever-increasing frequency, having withdrawal issues, or trouble stopping the habit.
The college students who were addicted to indoor tanning were also more likely to have symptoms of anxiety and/or greater use of alcohol, marijuana, and other substances, than their peers who were not addicted to indoor tanning.
Tanorexia: now it’s a recognized disease syndrome. Who knew?
