What factor greatly increases the risk of skin cancer from tanning?

The factor of accumulated UV exposure over time is a significant contributor to the increased risk of skin cancer from tanning. This is because skin damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation is cumulative, meaning that the effects of each exposure add up over the years. The more often an individual is exposed to UV radiation—whether from the sun or tanning beds—the higher the potential for DNA damage to skin cells. This damage can lead to mutations and ultimately increase the likelihood of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Although the frequency of tanning sessions and individual skin color can influence risk, they are not as definitive in terms of overall long-term exposure. The type of tanning lotion used may affect the immediate outcome of tanning sessions but does not change the underlying risk associated with UV exposure. Therefore, understanding the cumulative nature of UV exposure is crucial for recognizing how it elevates skin cancer risk over time.