Any skin tan that comes from ultraviolet rays is unsafe, according to a journal on skin care.

Three papers looked at what UV radiation -- whether from the sun or tanning beds -- does to the skin.

They said exposure causes DNA damage and skin cancer.

The authors also called for a ban on the use of tanning beds by people under 18 and said people should not be able to claim that tanning beds are safe.

Within the last year, the tanning industry has made a marketing push claiming that its services provide a safer way to help the body produce needed vitamin D.

Although more research is required, published data suggest that indoor tanning beds, which are used most by young women, are linked to an increased risk of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, according to a news release about the new studies.

"(Ultraviolet radiation) exposure represents one of the most avoidable causes of cancer risk and mortality in man. Whereas genetic and other factors undoubtedly contribute importantly to skin cancer risk, the role of UV is incontrovertible, and efforts to confuse the public, particularly for purposes of economic gain by the indoor tanning industry, should be vigorously combated for the public health," said Dr. David E. Fisher, who wrote one of the studies.

The papers were published in the October issue of Pigment Cell and Melanoma Research.