Tanning Beds: Consumer tips
They are available in full-body lay-down and stand-up designs, as well as smaller face and upper-body units. However, a tan from UV exposure is a sign that the skin has been damaged, and there is no safe way to use a sunbed for cosmetic tanning.
UK health organisations advise against using sunbeds because UV radiation increases the risk of skin cancer, including malignant melanoma, and can contribute to premature skin ageing, eye damage and sunburn. The risk rises with repeated exposure and can be particularly significant for people who begin using sunbeds at a young age.
For a cosmetic tan without UV exposure, consider self-tanning lotions, mousses, drops or professional spray tans instead. These colour the outer layer of the skin and do not expose it to UV radiation. They do not provide sun protection, so sunscreen is still needed outdoors.
Who should not use a sunbed?
Sunbed use is not suitable for everyone. In the UK, it is illegal for under-18s to use commercial sunbeds, and operators must not allow people under 18 to use them. Home sunbeds should likewise never be used by children or teenagers.
Avoid sunbeds altogether if you:
- Have fair, freckled or easily burned skin
- Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- Have many moles, unusual moles or changing pigmented marks
- Take medicines that increase sensitivity to light
- Have a medical condition affected by UV exposure
- Have previously experienced severe sunburn
- Have been advised by a doctor to avoid UV exposure
Speak to a GP, pharmacist or dermatologist if you are unsure whether a medicine or skincare treatment increases photosensitivity. This can include some antibiotics, acne treatments, retinoids, anti-inflammatory medicines and herbal products, among others.
Sunbeds are not medical treatment
Consumer sunbeds should not be used to treat vitamin D deficiency, skin conditions or seasonal low mood. If you are concerned about vitamin D, NHS guidance generally focuses on diet, supplements where recommended and safe daylight exposure—not sunbed use.
Some medical skin conditions, such as psoriasis, may be treated with prescribed phototherapy under clinical supervision. Medical phototherapy is not the same as cosmetic sunbed use: it uses controlled equipment, defined wavelengths and healthcare monitoring. Do not attempt to replicate medical UV treatment with a home or commercial sunbed.
If you are considering a sunbed
The safest choice is not to use a sunbed. If you still decide to use one, do not assume that a lower UVB setting, a shorter session, filters or a particular lamp type makes cosmetic tanning safe. UVA can penetrate deeply into the skin and is also associated with skin ageing and skin-cancer risk.
Do not use a sunbed to prepare for a holiday, to prevent sunburn or to build a “base tan”. It does not provide meaningful protection from natural sunlight. Avoid combining sunbed use with prolonged sun exposure on the same day.
Stop using a sunbed and seek medical advice if you develop a new or changing mole, a persistent sore, unusual pigmentation or a skin reaction. In an urgent situation, contact NHS 111; for severe symptoms, use emergency services as appropriate.
Product and installation considerations
Home sunbeds are specialist electrical appliances. If you are comparing equipment, prioritise safety documentation, manufacturer support, accessible controls and professional installation rather than tanning speed or lamp wattage. Fixed wattage figures, tube types and claimed tanning times do not provide a reliable measure of safety.
Check that:
- The product is supplied for use in the UK, with appropriate conformity and safety information
- The installation space has sufficient ventilation and electrical capacity
- The unit includes a reliable timer and automatic shut-off
- The manufacturer provides clear maintenance, cleaning and lamp-replacement instructions
- Replacement parts are available from an authorised source
- You understand the ongoing costs, servicing requirements and safe disposal arrangements
Protective eyewear specifically designed for UV exposure is essential if a device is used. Ordinary sunglasses do not provide adequate protection. Never look directly at UV lamps, and do not use a sunbed if protective eyewear is missing or damaged.
UV lamps and filters must be maintained only in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not rely on generic lamp-life estimates or fit non-approved replacement tubes, as incorrect parts can alter the device’s UV output and safety performance.
