Psychological factors associated with skin exposure and skin protection in the UK. The case of young people: an overview of selected literature

The damaging effects of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (e.g. sunbathing and use of sunbeds) have been well-documented in Previous research. These include skin cancer, eye damage, photodermatosis and premature skin ageing. Young people run higher risk than other age groups for UV-related health damage. We provide an overview of previous literature on factors associated with skin exposure and skin protection behaviours. There is limited research on attitudes, beliefs and behaviour regardin UVR exposure realted behaviours, especially the use of sunbeds. Despite their increased risk from UV exposure, UK studies have rarely focused on young people. Finally, previous research has focused on health beliefs as predictors of sun protection / sun exposure at the expense of other potentially significant factors e.g. appearance concern and proneness to depression. The findings are discussed in the light of directions for future research.