Recent headlines about Gen Z chasing the highest UV index for a “better” tan are alarming for any parent. While your teen might see tanning as harmless or trendy, the truth is UV exposure—whether from the sun or tanning beds—comes with serious, lifelong consequences.
Even one blistering sunburn during youth can double the risk of melanoma later in life. On top of that, tanning speeds up skin aging, causing wrinkles, sun spots, and uneven texture far earlier than it should.
But here’s the good news: your teen can still get that bronzed, vacation-ready glow—without risking their health.
At SUGARED + BRONZED, we believe beauty should never come at the expense of wellness. With the right alternatives, like professional spray tans and daily mineral sunscreen, you can help your teen glow confidently and safely.
1. Why UV Tanning Is Riskier for Young Skin
Teen and young adult skin is more vulnerable to UV damage because it’s still developing and regenerating at a faster rate—meaning UV rays have more opportunity to alter skin cell DNA.
The long-term risks of tanning in youth:
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Increased risk of melanoma and other skin cancers
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Early onset of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun spots
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Uneven skin texture and pigmentation issues
2. Swap the Sun for a Safer Glow
A professional spray tan offers all the warmth and radiance of a natural tan—minus the UV damage. At S+B, our custom airbrush tans are designed to:
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Match and enhance natural skin tones
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Deliver an even, streak-free glow
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Be ready for events, vacations, or photos—no sunburn risk required
Pro Tip for Moms: Make it a self-care outing. Book your spray tans together—it’s a great way to spend time and show that sunless tanning is the smarter, safer way to glow.
3. Make SPF a Daily Habit
Whether your teen tans in the sun or not, SPF is non-negotiable—and a mineral formula is the safest, most effective choice.
Our S+B Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is teen-approved because it:
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Has a lightweight, sheer finish (no white cast)
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Works under makeup or solo for a fresh look
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Protects with 100% mineral zinc oxide—broad spectrum UVA/UVB
4. The Mom-Approved Glow Routine
Help your teen build a glow that lasts without damaging their skin:
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Book a spray tan for special occasions or vacations.
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Apply S+B Tinted Mineral Sunscreen daily—even on cloudy days.
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Moisturize daily to extend spray tan life and keep skin healthy.
5. Protect Now, Thank Yourself Later
Teens might roll their eyes now, but protecting their skin today is a gift they’ll appreciate for decades. By steering them toward sunless tanning and building SPF habits early, you’re helping them look and feel their best—without the sunburns, wrinkles, and risks that come with UV exposure.
Skip the UV, keep the glow—because healthy skin is always in style.
✨ Book a spray tan
✨ Shop S + B Tinted Mineral Sunscreen