P180 Young adults’ perspectives on sunbed tanning alternatives: examining facilitators and barriers in a UK sample

Abstract

Despite clear evidence linking indoor sunbed use to an increased risk of skin cancer (melanoma), sunbed use remains prevalent among UK-based young adults. Using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) – a comprehensive behavioural science framework examining factors such as knowledge, beliefs, motivation and environmental context – we explored barriers and facilitators influencing the use of sunbed tanning alternatives among young adults in the UK. An online, cross-sectional survey was conducted between February and June 2025. Using purposive sampling, a total of 502 UK-based young adults (aged 18–24 years; mean 21.7, SD 1.76) who had used sunbeds in the past year were included in the analysis. A series of multiple-choice and Likert-scale questions was used to measure demographics (e.g. age and ethnicity), social deprivation, skin cancer risk, sun protection behaviours, willingness to use alternatives and barriers or facilitators to using various sunbed alternatives (fake tan, tinted moisturizer, bronzer, professional spray tanning). Backward stepwise linear regressions were performed to predict the frequency of using alternatives (past year) from TDF factors. Significant predictors were entered into separate linear regressions controlling demographics in the first model. Qualitative feedback was gained to further assess barriers or facilitators for using each alternative; these were studied using content analysis. Quantitative findings indicated that frequent use of sunbed alternatives was associated with more positive perceptions of a natural-looking tan (β = 0.10–0.19), stronger future intentions (β = 0.12–0.17) and social influence from other users (β = 0.10–0.19). Qualitative findings indicated that greater facilitators were associated with convenience and affordability. There were mixed views regarding beliefs about the consequences of tanning between alternatives. Efforts to promote switching from sunbeds to sunbed alternatives should target intentions and beliefs about consequences relating to using sunbed alternatives. Understanding modifiable behavioural drivers can inform targeted strategies to reduce sunbed use among young adults, support safer alternatives and prevent skin cancer.