A Harrowing Warning from an Ex-Tanning Addict

Lisa Costello, now 43, began using sunbeds at just 15 years old and quickly became addicted. Spending her mid-20s in tanning booths two to three times a week, Lisa found her routine all-consuming. Sadly, it wasn't until she lost her father to melanoma that she reconsidered her choices.

The Price of Tan: A Personal Journey Through Cancer

Despite her father's tragic battle with skin cancer, Lisa’s own habit persisted until she too received a skin cancer diagnosis—not once, but twice. In 2018, she discovered a suspicious mole, which turned out to be stage 1 melanoma. For a while, after surgery, she felt relieved. However, in early 2021, another mole prompted a visit to the doctor, leading to a second diagnosis.

A Message to Gen Z: Don't Fall for the TikTok Trap

Now, Lisa is on a mission to save young people from the fate she endured. She fears the impact of social media, particularly TikTok, where influencers promote tanning products that may accelerate skin damage. "It's like they are brainwashing these kids to believe tanning equals beauty," Lisa cautions. Her heart aches for the teens, who, influenced by glamorous images, are being lured into dangerous habits.

A New Beginning: Lisa's Quest for Awareness

In a bid to turn her pain into purpose, Lisa is launching her own line of fake tanning products, set to hit the market this May. Empowered by her harrowing experiences, she hopes to educate others on the real risks of UV exposure. "I have 11 scars, all reminders of my past choices. By 60, I might have many more. I want others to think twice before stepping into a sunbed or buying those dangerous creams.

It's Time to Rethink Tanning Culture

Lisa warns that today’s harmful tanning trends echo a past where smoking was glamorized. "We wouldn’t sell cigarettes online if their impact were universally understood. It’s time to realize that the allure of tanning is just the surface; the true costs are much deeper." With her captivating journey, Lisa is determined to shine a spotlight on the dangers of tanning and encourage a sun-safe lifestyle for future generations.