Tanning Salon's Deception Fails During Raid

An illegal solarium business, F.A Beauty trading as The Tanned Me, has been ordered to forfeit nine tanning beds, each valued at $90,000, and pay $35,300 in fines plus legal fees following a raid on its Bondi Junction and Fairfield salons in NSW. The operation was conducted by the NSW Environment Protection Agency and NSW Police on August 8, 2024. It has been illegal to operate commercial UV cosmetic tanning services in NSW since December 2014 due to the significant health risks associated with UV radiation exposure, including an increased risk of skin cancer.

During the raid on the Bondi Junction salon, employees attempted to mislead officers by telling customers that they were present to purchase tanning creams. However, officers noted that the UV tanning beds, although switched off, were still warm. A previous inspection of the Fairfield premises in November 2023 also revealed multiple UV beds, tanning creams, and cash, along with evidence of bookings made through private online messaging platforms. This case represents the first successful prosecution of a solarium business by the NSW EPA, which is actively targeting underground operators.

NSW EPA Executive Director Emma Whale stated that the radiation laws are in place to protect public health, as UV exposure significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. The Tanned Me continued to promote its services, including images and videos, on social media, even showcasing a salon in the United Arab Emirates where commercial solariums are legal. The business has since assured clients in the UAE of its continued operation there.