A qualitative investigation of the motivations, experiences and views of female sunbed users under the age of 18 in England.

Objective: To explore the motivations, experiences and views of female regular sunbed users aged 15-17 and consider the implications of legislation seeking to restrict sunbed use among the under-18s. Design Qualitative study of 12 focus groups.

Method: Participants were recruited opportunistically through community and social networks, around tanning salons, leisure and educational facilities in six English towns and cities. Interviews were transcribed, a thematic framework generated and a validation exercise conducted. Setting Urban communities in England. Participants Sixty-nine female regular sunbed users aged 15-18.

Results: Respondents consistently valued tanning and attached considerable personal and social importance to it. They showed an awareness of the risks of sunbed use that they accepted, downplayed and/or ignored. While experiences and responses to supervision varied, respondents were resistant to any measures that restricted their use and expressed willingness to find ways around such restrictions.

Conclusions: The sunbed users interviewed in this study attached considerable significance to tanning, rationalized the risks of sunbed use and expressed their determination to continue using them. The impact of legislation to limit sunbed access may be weakened without requirements to ensure supervision of salons.