Home / Health / FDA Reverses Tanning Bed Ban for Minors
FDA Reverses Tanning Bed Ban for Minors
19 Mar
Summary
- FDA withdrew proposed rule banning tanning beds for those under 18.
- Tanning beds emit up to 15 times more UV radiation than sun.
- Melanoma rates are more than double in tanning bed users.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Tuesday, March 18, 2026, that it has withdrawn a proposed rule that would have prohibited all individuals under 18 from using tanning beds. This proposal, initially put forth in 2015, aimed to restrict minors' access to indoor sunlamps and tanning devices.
The FDA cited a range of public comments as a factor in its decision, including arguments for personal autonomy and parental decision-making, alongside concerns about compliance burdens for small businesses. While the federal ban is off the table, the FDA spokesperson emphasized that UV radiation exposure still causes skin cancer. Users are encouraged to consult physicians about the risks before using sunlamp products.
Tanning beds are known to emit up to 15 times the ultraviolet radiation of direct sunlight, significantly increasing the risk of skin damage and cancer. Studies published in 2025 indicate that melanoma rates are more than double among tanning bed users. The American Academy of Dermatology highlights that using tanning beds before age 20 can increase melanoma risk by nearly 50%.
Many states already have restrictions in place, with some banning minors entirely and others requiring parental consent. The FDA continues to consider other regulatory actions regarding sunlamp products, noting that tanning beds are classified as class II medical devices and already require a 'black-box' warning against use by individuals under 18. However, the weight of this warning is limited without a federal mandate.
