Are sunbeds safe?
There has been a worrying increase in the number of young people using sunbeds. Find out more about why they’re dangerous and how sunbeds can cause skin cancer.
- In the UK sunbeds are illegal for under 18s to use
- Sunbeds give off high intensity UV radiation. People use them to get a tan.
- Sunbeds are classified as ‘carcinogenic’ (this means they can cause cancer)
- They’re in the same category of carcinogen as tobacco and asbestos
What is a sunbed?
A sunbed is an artificial tanning device. People use them to get a tan. They give off high intensity UV radiation which tans or darkens the skin. This is also known as ‘cosmetic tanning’ and sunbeds are sometimes also called ‘artificial tanning devices’ or ‘solariums’.
‘Cosmetic’ means something that restores or improves your appearance, not for medical reasons but by choice.
Are sunbeds safe?
In 2009 the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified artificial tanning devices (sunbeds) as ‘carcinogenic’ – this means they can cause cancer.
Sunbeds can damage your skin and your eyes. Without proper eye protection, UV rays can lead to cataracts and other eye injuries.
It’s not true that getting a ‘base tan’ from a sunbed will protect your skin from sunburn or UV damage in the sun. Using a sunbed increases your risk of skin cancer.
We urge people not to use sunbeds, and to protect their skin against the sun.
Find out more about how to stay safe in the sun.
Can sunbeds cause skin cancer?
Yes, sunbeds can cause skin cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in young people. There are different types of skin cancer, and melanoma is the most common in young people.
You can find more information on skin cancer here.
Sunbeds are classified as carcinogenic in the same category as tobacco and asbestos. Studies have found that first using a sunbed before the age of 35 is associated with a 59% increased risk of developing skin cancer.
The World Health Organisation say: “Melanoma risk increases with younger age of first sunbed use and with greater lifetime use of sunbeds. Research shows that people who have used a sunbed at least once at any stage in their life have a 20% higher risk of developing melanoma than people who have never used a sunbed, and the first use of sunbeds before the age of 35 increases the risk of developing melanoma by 59%.”
Are sunbeds illegal?
In the UK, sunbeds are illegal for people under the age of 18 to use. Sunbed shops should ask for your ID before letting you use a sunbed, if they think you are under 18. Some shops also use the Challenge 21 or Challenge 25 policy where they will ask for your ID if they think you look under the age of 21 or 25.
Find out more about the Sunbeds (Regulations) Act 2010 on the gov.uk website.
What is the difference between UVA light and UVB light?
Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) are two types of light radiation that can cause skin cancer. UVA is linked to skin ageing, and UVB is associated with sunburn. UVB also makes Vitamin D.
Can you get Vitamin D from a sunbed?
UVB light is needed for the skin to make Vitamin D. Sunbeds use mainly UVA light so they don’t offer any significant Vitamin D benefits.
Does using a sunbed help with acne?
A common misunderstanding is that using sunbeds can help improve skin conditions, like acne. However, there’s no evidence that this is true. In fact, medication used for acne can make your skin really sensitive and using a sunbed after taking this medication can cause even more damage to your skin.
Is one sunbed a week okay?
Sunbeds give off high intensity UV radiation and using them can increase your chance of getting cancer. We actively advise against any use of sunbeds.
Is there a safe way to tan?
There are lots of fake tans available to buy. Using a fake tan can be a safer way to get the same result without damaging your skin.
Like with all skincare, it’s important to check the ingredients and the application instructions before using to avoid any skin reactions.
If you’re going to be outside in the sun then it’s really important you protect your skin. You can find out more about how to stay safe in the sun here.
What is melanotan?
Melanotan is used in products like nasal sprays and injections that are used to boost tanning. It makes your skin produce more melanin, which makes your skin look darker in colour.
You can find out more about melanotan on the Melanoma Focus website.
Is melanotan illegal?
Melanotan is unregulated in the UK and hasn’t been approved by health authorities. According to the Chartered Trading Standards Institute this means products which have melanotan in could “pose significant risks and danger to the public”.
Find out more on Cancer Research UK’s website.