Patricia Krentcil became an internet sensation in 2012 when she was charged with child endangerment. Known as “Tan Mom,” she was obsessed with tanning and would spend five days a week in the tanning booth. This extreme obsession, known as tanorexia, almost cost Patricia her life. Thankfully, she is now on a much better path, though she still frequents the salon. Let’s take a look at how Patricia has transformed over the last ten years.

Obsessions can have a significant impact on our lives, especially when they begin to take over. Whether it’s food, shopping, or any other activity, it’s crucial to be aware of the long-term effects of our obsessions.

If you find yourself prioritizing an obsession over other important aspects of life, it may be helpful to seek support. Talk to a friend or consider counseling to regain a healthy balance.

The Rise of “Tan Mom”

Patricia Krentcil’s obsession with tanning catapulted her to viral fame. Tanning became an integral part of her life from a young age, and in 2012, she gained internet notoriety when she stood trial for taking her daughter to the tanning salon. While she was never convicted, her name became well-known.

“I’ve been tanning my whole life, going to the beach, tanning salons, and so forth,” Patricia revealed.

But it wasn’t her tanning habits that made her an internet sensation; it was a much more serious incident that unfolded in May 2012. Patricia faced criminal charges of child endangerment, accused of putting her six-year-old daughter in a stand-up tanning booth, resulting in burns.

However, Patricia vehemently denied the allegations, claiming it was all a misunderstanding. She clarified that while her daughter did accompany her to the tanning salon, she never took her inside the booth.

“No, not at all. Not whatsoever,” Patricia adamantly insisted. “She’s six years old. Yes, she does go tanning with mommy, but not in the booth. The whole thing’s preposterous!”

Despite her explanations, Patricia earned the nickname “Tan Mom” in the media, and the alleged incident spread like wildfire online, making headlines around the world.

Shedding Light on Tanorexia

The case not only brought attention to Patricia but also shed light on a controversial phenomenon known as tanorexia. Tanorexia is a condition where individuals become dependent and obsessed with tanning.

Dr. Doris Day, a dermatologist from New York, explained, “When you look at this, this is somebody who has a problem which most likely has a condition called tanorexia, where they just don’t realize just how much color they have. There’s really no excuse to take a young child to a tanning salon. We often consider going to a tanning salon the equivalent of smoking for the skin, and the younger you start, those effects are cumulative.”

Health experts agreed that Patricia’s case was extremely severe. Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner called it one of the most extreme cases he had encountered, stating, “Going to a tanning salon 20 times a month, frankly, is insane, especially with all of the public education and awareness campaigns on the dangers of tanning beds and skin cancers.”

Dr. Zeichner further suggested that Patricia’s obsession with tanning, now known as tanorexia, may require psychological as well as physical treatment. It’s crucial to address not only the damage to her skin but also the underlying psychological issues.

After enduring a tumultuous journey, Patricia Krentcil is now focused on her recovery. While she continues to maintain her bronzed appearance, she’s learned valuable lessons about the importance of moderation and balance.

Let Patricia’s story serve as a reminder to us all to prioritize our well-being and seek help when our obsessions begin to consume us.