Irish people know skin cancer risks but think it's all right to get 'slightly sunburned'

The study of more than 1,000 people found tanned skin is still seen as a sign of beauty and not “dangerous” sun damage. iStock

Almost half of the people surveyed for a new study said they have used sunbeds despite knowing the risks to their skin — and many who sunbathe believe it is worth getting “slightly sunburned” to get a tan.

These “horrifying” findings have prompted the Cork-based doctors and researchers who carried out the study to say more skin cancer education is urgently needed.