Objective - To quantify the impact of artificial UV exposure on the incidence of skin melanoma in France and on mortality. Methods - We estimated the attributable fraction using the latest exposure prevalence data from the 2010 Cancer Barometer and the relative risk from the most recent available meta-analysis (2006). Several alternative scenarios were examined: exposure only before age 35, exposure during the past 12 months, and an analysis based on the risks from the 2006 meta-analysis. Results - We estimate that 4.6% of skin melanoma cases, or 347 cases annually, are attributable to the use of tanning beds. Women bear the brunt of this risk, accounting for approximately 76% of cases. Different alternative scenarios lead to an estimate that each year, between 91 and 350 cases of melanoma are due to the use of tanning beds. Assuming that cases caused by tanning beds have the same prognosis as those caused by naturally occurring UV radiation, we estimate that between 19 and 76 deaths per year are attributable to this practice. Conclusion - Between 566 and 2,288 deaths can be expected over the next 30 years if French people’s exposure to UV tanning beds remains unchanged. Strengthened prevention efforts to reduce the use of artificial UV radiation for cosmetic purposes are urgently needed. [author’s abstract]