Some 15% of adults in Ireland think it is worth getting sunburned in order to get a tan afterwards, the results of a new survey have found.

According to the findings, 71% of adults living in Ireland sunburn easily and 18% have already been burned this year. However, while 88% use sunscreen to protect themselves, just 52% say they always use sunscreen when out in the sunshine.

The survey of 1,000 adults found that only 30% have ever had any moles or dark freckles checked by a doctor, while 25% are unaware of the dangers of the sun.

However, when it comes to sunbeds, 97% are aware of the dangers associated with their use, yet 20% of adults have still used them at some point.

Furthermore, among those currently using them, just 38% use some kind of skin protection, such as sunscreen.

Overall, 68% of adults surveyed said sunbeds should be illegal.

The survey was carried out by iReach Insights between May 10-15.