Sunbed usage in the UK is on the rise again, despite ongoing health warnings about the risks of skin cancer. This resurgence is driven by several factors that continue to make sunbeds an attractive option for many individuals. However, health experts are increasingly alarmed, as the UK already has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in Europe.
Why Are More People Using Sunbeds?
Several key factors are contributing to the increasing popularity of sunbeds:
- Aesthetic Trends – Tanned skin remains a beauty ideal, and some individuals prefer the convenience of sunbeds over self-tanning products.
- Cost of Travel – With the rising cost of holidays abroad, some people turn to sunbeds as a more affordable way to maintain a bronzed look.
- Misinformation – Despite strong evidence linking sunbed use to melanoma, some still believe that sunbeds provide a “safer” tan or help with vitamin D production.
- Social Media Influence – Influencers and celebrities continue to glamorize tanning culture, particularly influencing younger demographics.
The Risks: What Science Says About Sunbeds
The health risks of sunbed usage are well-documented. One of the most alarming statistics comes from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC): using sunbeds before the age of 35 increases the risk of melanoma by 75%. It’s important to note that this means a relative risk increase—not that the overall risk of developing melanoma is 75%, but rather that the likelihood is 75% higher compared to someone who has never used sunbeds.
This finding led to sunbeds being classified as Group 1 carcinogens—the same category as tobacco and asbestos.
How Other Countries Have Responded
Given the strong link between sunbeds and skin cancer, some countries have taken the step of banning commercial sunbeds entirely:
- Australia – Banned commercial sunbeds nationwide in 2015 after research showed they were responsible for a significant number of melanoma cases.
- Brazil – Became the first country to outlaw tanning beds for cosmetic use in 2009.
- Iran – Enforces strict regulations and bans on commercial sunbed use.
In contrast, other nations—including the UK, US, and most of Europe—have chosen regulation over prohibition, primarily imposing age restrictions and operational guidelines. In some cases, local authorities have implemented stricter policies than national governments.
Current UK Regulations on Sunbeds
The UK has not banned sunbeds outright but has put several regulations in place:
- Under-18 Ban – The Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010 prohibits commercial sunbed use for individuals under 18 in England and Wales. Similar laws exist in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
- Supervised Use – Scotland mandates that tanning salons be supervised and requires operators to provide health warnings. England and Wales, however, still allow unsupervised self-service sunbeds.
- Health Warnings – Businesses must display warning signs about the risks of UV exposure.
- Lack of Licensing in England & Wales – Unlike Scotland, where sunbed operators require a license, England and Wales have no such requirements, leading to more lenient regulation.
Should the UK Implement Stronger Restrictions or a Ban?
Several organisations and experts are advocating for stricter sunbed regulations, if not an outright ban:
- Cancer Research UK and the British Association of Dermatologists have called for stronger government intervention to reduce skin cancer rates.
- MPs and dermatologists have suggested that Scotland’s licensing model should be extended to England and Wales.
- Recent studies indicate that sunbed usage in the UK is significantly contributing to rising melanoma cases, adding urgency to the push for stricter laws.
Is Tanning Worth the Risk?
While a tan may be seen as desirable, the risks associated with sunbeds far outweigh the aesthetic benefits. With clear links to melanoma and other skin cancers, the dangers of artificial tanning cannot be ignored. As more countries consider banning sunbeds, the UK faces a crucial decision: strengthen regulations or take the bold step of outlawing them altogether.
For now, individuals must weigh the risks carefully and consider safer alternatives like self-tanning products or simply embracing their natural skin tone. As awareness grows, it’s possible that the cultural perception of tanning may shift, leading to healthier choices and fewer cases of preventable skin cancer.