Patricia Krentcil became an internet sensation in 2012 when she was charged with child endangerment. Many may recognize her by the nickname “Tan Mom”, given her habit of tanning almost daily. She spent years in tanning booths, which had a serious impact on her health.
A condition called tanorexia, where people don’t realize how dark their skin has become, nearly cost Patricia her life. Today, she is doing better, though she still tans regularly.
Over the past decade, she has gone through many ups and downs. Here’s what she looks like today!
Patricia Krentcil’s Tanning Obsession
Patricia started tanning at 23, and it quickly became part of her routine. At one point, she was visiting salons five times a week for full sessions.
“I’ve been tanning my whole life, going to the beach, tanning salons, and so forth,” Patricia said.
But her tanning habits weren’t what initially made her go viral.
The 2012 Controversy
In May 2012, Patricia was accused of taking her 6-year-old daughter into a tanning booth, which led to child endangerment charges. She denied the claims, saying her daughter got a sunburn from playing outside.
“There’s no room for a child in a tanning booth. It didn’t happen,” she insisted.
Media Attention and Public Reaction
The story spread quickly, and Patricia became known as “Tan Mom” worldwide. It also brought attention to tanorexia, with experts saying tanning addiction can be harmful.
Doctors warned that indoor tanning increases the risk of skin cancer and other health problems. Some believed Patricia had body dysmorphic disorder, where people are unhappy with their appearance despite frequent changes.
If convicted, Patricia faced up to 10 years in prison. But in 2013, a grand jury decided not to indict her.
Life After the Case
Even after being cleared, Patricia faced criticism. She later moved to Florida for a fresh start.
In 2019, she was hospitalized with pneumonia and other health issues but recovered. Today, she embraces her “Tan Mom” identity and still tans twice a week.
“There’s **Tan Mom, the celebrity, and Patricia,