On the first December 2009, a new law came into force preventing under-18s from using sunbeds.
Read on to find out more about what this could mean for you, the truth about the dangers of using a sunbed, and how you can keep safe and keep tanned!

What are the rules on using a sunbed?

Under the Public Health etc. (Scotland) Act 2008:

• Operators are not allowed to hire sunbeds to under 18s
• Operators must supervise the use of sunbeds (coin operated sun beds will no longer be permitted).
• Operators have a duty to display information on the health risks associated with sunbed use.

Is it true that sunbeds are bad for you?

According to Cancer Research UK:

• Sunbeds give out UV rays which damages our skin cells. Over time, this damage can build up and may eventually lead to skin cancer.
• Using a sunbed once a month or more can increase the risk of skin cancer by more than half.
• Young people are particularly at risk of the damaging effects of sunbeds – sunbed users under the age of 35 have a 75% higher risk of developing skin cancer.
• The International Agency for Research on Cancer(IARC) recently reclassified sunbeds as ‘carcinogenic’ (has the potential to cause cancer). This puts sunbeds in the same category as tobacco and alcohol. 
• Sunbeds can also make your skin look wrinkly early.

 How do I spot skin cancer?

It is easier to treat skin cancer if it is caught early. Make sure you know what your skin looks like and watch out for any changes.

Cancer research UK provides some guidelines on detecting skin cancer. Have a look at their ABCD rule.

If you notice any changes to your skin or are worried then go to see you doctor as soon as possible.

How can I stay tanned but not use a sunbed?

Using a fake tan is much safer way of getting a tan than going out in the sun or using a sunbed. Some fake tans, like bronzers, wash easily off the skin. Others are made with a substance called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA reacts with the skin so the colour stays longer.

Gemma Merna from Holly Oaks first used a sunbed when she was 15 and quickly started using them once or twice a week. She told Cancer Research UK:
 “When I was younger, I didn’t realise the damage I was doing to my skin by using sunbeds. I just wanted to look tanned and to fit in with everyone and didn’t give any thought to the risks I was taking or the fact that it would actually make my skin look worse as I got older. When I realized how dangerous sunbeds were, I stopped using them and started using fake tan instead.”

More...

Sunbeds - information from Cancer Research UK.

Sunsmart- for more information on skin cancer and how to stay safe in the sun.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer- part of the World Health Organization that co-ordinates and conducts research into human cancer.