Overview
- A new poll of more than 3,000 UK adults for Melanoma Focus found about one in nine intentionally burn to tan, including via sunbeds.
- Thirty-five percent said they never use sunscreen in summer, and that figure rose to 41% among men who were less likely to protect their skin.
- Many respondents cited appearance pressures, with some believing burning deepens a tan and others copying social media trends.
- Experts warn that repeated sunburn raises cancer risk, with five or more lifetime burns able to double the chance of developing melanoma.
- Melanoma is the UK’s fifth most common cancer with about 19,400 cases and 2,600 deaths each year, and guidance stresses SPF30+ sunscreen, shade, protective clothing, hats and UV‑blocking sunglasses.