Canadian dermatologists are reporting a rise in skin-cancer cases among people in their 20s due to tanning and low sunscreen use.
This trend is significant because skin cancer typically affects older populations, suggesting that current behavioral patterns among young adults are creating long-term health risks earlier in life.
Medical professionals attribute the surge to a gap in preventative care among Gen Z. According to reports, about 40% of Gen Z still tan actively [1]. In contrast, only 22% of the same demographic use daily SPF [1].
Experts said that protection requires consistent effort. They said that sunscreen should be re-applied every two to three hours [1].
While tanning and lack of SPF are primary drivers, other factors may be contributing to the increase. Some experts said that the prolonged use of skin-lightening products is exposing users to health risks and contributing to rising cases [2, 3].
The national dermatology community in Canada continues to monitor these trends as more young patients present with symptoms typically seen in older adults. The combination of aesthetic trends, such as the desire for a tanned look or bleached skin, and a lack of daily protection is creating a vulnerability in this age group.
“About 40% of Gen Z still tan actively”
The shift in skin-cancer demographics suggests a failure in public health messaging for younger generations. By prioritizing aesthetic trends like tanning or skin-bleaching over preventative SPF use, Gen Z is increasing its cumulative UV damage, which may lead to a higher burden of chronic skin diseases in the coming decades.
