In 2012, Patricia Krentcil gained viral fame, better recognized by her nickname, “Tan Mom,” after being charged with child endangerment. Her obsession with tanning salons led her to spend time in the booth up to five days a week. This craze, known as tanorexia, almost endangered Patricia’s life. Fortunately, she’s now healthier, although she still visits tanning salons occasionally.
The journey of “Tan Mom” over the past decade has been quite a ride, and today she presents a much-changed appearance.
While having an obsession can stem from various activities like shopping or binge-watching shows, it’s crucial to understand the potential impacts on one’s life. If you feel something is overtaking your daily priorities, it might be time to talk to a friend or seek counseling.
The Journey of Patricia Krentcil – ‘Tan Mom’
Patricia’s infatuation with tanning began in her early twenties and escalated to the point of her frequenting tanning salons regularly. This passion led to unexpected internet fame in 2012 when she allegedly took her young daughter to a tanning booth. Although unconvicted, her story sparked worldwide attention.
These days, Patricia adopts a more cautious approach toward tanning, but her past habits have left a mark on her life and appearance. Her routine included unlimited salon visits, being part of a $100 monthly package, engaging in 12-minute sessions.
Despite these past habits, the real buzz in 2012 was not just about her extreme tanning. Instead, it was due to charges of child endangerment, as Patricia was accused of unlawfully introducing her 6-year-old daughter, Anna, to a tanning booth, resulting in burns.
Misunderstandings and Charges
Patricia maintained that it was a misunderstanding and that she’d never allow Anna inside a booth. However, police authorities charged Patricia, stating that her daughter showed signs consistent with burns after a day out playing. Under New Jersey law, children under 14 aren’t allowed in tanning salons, making the incident quite controversial.
This incident cast light on the condition known as tanorexia, where one becomes obsessed and unaware of their increasingly tanned skin, explained Dr. Doris Day, a New York dermatologist.
Dr. Joshua Zeichner emphasized the dangers, equating indoor tanning to smoking due to its severe skin cancer risks, revealing the extremity of Patricia’s case.
Facing Legal Challenges
Potentially facing a prison sentence of up to 10 years, Patricia stood firm on her innocence, explaining the sunburn on Anna was from playing outdoors rather than tanning booths. She stressed that tanning was her harmless indulgence, questioning why it was deemed problematic only now.
After being released on bail, Patricia was ultimately cleared in 2013 by a grand jury, though public judgment continued to follow her. Criticized by fellow parents, Patricia responded defensively, attributing criticism to envy over her tan appearance.
Media scrutiny transformed Patricia’s life into a public spectacle, prompting her family to relocate to Florida to start anew. Despite the adversities, Patricia sought opportunities to benefit from her newfound fame, aspiring to create various business ventures revolving around her identity.
Health Scares and Recovery
Patricia’s health later became precarious when she fell severely ill in 2019, battling pneumonia among other health issues. Although she was on life support, thankfully, Patricia overcame these challenges.
Today, Patricia is thriving, maintaining a twice-a-week tanning routine in her personal tanning bed. She embraces her public persona, acknowledging both ‘Tan Mom’ and ‘Patricia Marie, Mom’ as distinct parts of her life.
As you reflect on this story, consider your stance on tanning salons. Should they remain open, or should their operations be reconsidered? Share your thoughts and engage with your family and friends about this tale of transformation.
