Predictors of sun-related behaviors among young women: comparisons between outdoor tanners, fake tanners, and tan avoiders.
OBJECTIVE
Skin cancer incidence continues to rise as a tanned appearance remains desirable, particularly among young women. Fake tanning provides a tanned appearance without exposure to ultraviolet radiation. In order to advance our understanding of the factors that contribute to long-term behavior change, this study explores determinants associated with different types of tanning.


METHODS
The sample included 162 female students from the University of Adelaide, Australia, aged 18-26 years. Data were collected in July 2010.


METHODS
The current study measured differences in skin type, skin cancer knowledge, unrealistic optimism, appearance motivation, and sun-protective and sun exposure behaviors amongst outdoor tanners, fake tanners, and tan avoiders through an online survey.


RESULTS
Differences were observed for skin type, skin cancer knowledge, unrealistic optimism, sun protection, and sun exposure.


CONCLUSIONS
A "one-size-fits-all" approach to skin cancer prevention may not be appropriate; type of tanning behavior may need to be considered in health promotion work.
School of Psychology , University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia. ashley.day@adelaide.edu.au
Ashley K
AK
Day
Melissa
M
Oxlad
Rachel M
RM
Roberts
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003358:Cosmetics; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012649:Self Concept; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012880:Skin Pigmentation; D013021:South Australia; D055108:Sunbathing / Q000523:psychology*; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult
D003358:Cosmetics; D013473:Sunscreening Agents