Sunbeds: Deadly Lie, NHS Warns

The NHS has issued a strong warning concerning 'false' health claims circulating on social media that promote sunbeds as beneficial, particularly for Vitamin D. These advertisements, found on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, incorrectly suggest sunbeds can boost energy, treat skin conditions, or improve mental health. Health experts and cancer charities emphasize that sunbed use is directly linked to increased rates of skin cancer, including melanoma. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that using a sunbed before age 35 raises melanoma risk by 59% and classifies them as dangerous as smoking.

In response to these risks and evidence of under 18s accessing tanning salons, the UK is preparing to implement new regulations. As part of the National Cancer Plan Consultation, new rules are expected to come into force as soon as 2027, strengthening requirements for commercial sunbed use. These will include banning unsupervised sessions and introducing mandatory ID checks to enforce the age restriction. Health Minister Karin Smyth highlighted the need for stronger protections, stating there is no safe level of sunbed use and that young people are exposed to carcinogens with little understanding of the risks.

Professor Meghana Pandit from NHS England reinforced that while a tan may be temporary, the damage from UV radiation can be lifelong. The current Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010 bans under 18s, but evidence suggests this is not consistently enforced. In 2023, the UK saw nearly a quarter of a million new skin cancer diagnoses, costing the NHS an estimated £750 million annually. A significant portion of the adult population remains unaware of the link between sunbeds and cancer, with some younger individuals mistakenly believing they reduce cancer risk.