By Dr. Liji Thomas, MD Reviewed by Lauren Hardaker Apr 24 2026 Awareness of UV danger doesn’t always translate into safer choices, as attitudes toward tanning and sunscreen, rooted in social and appearance norms, continue to shape sun exposure behavior for teens.  Study: Associations between Perceived Costs and Rewards of Sun Protection and Sun Safety Practices among Rural and Urban High School Students . Image credit: verona studio/Shutterstock.com Why do teens expose themselves to the sun