Quick answer
No. Across the UK it's illegal for a salon, gym, hotel or any other business to let anyone under 18 use a sunbed, and under-18s aren't allowed in the room where a sunbed is kept either. The law covers England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you want colour before you turn 18, use a self-tan product instead.
What the law says
- England and Wales: the Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010 makes it an offence for a business to let anyone aged 17 or under use a sunbed, offer them one, or let them into the restricted zone where a sunbed is kept.
- Scotland: the same restrictions apply under the Public Health etc. (Scotland) Act 2008.
- Northern Ireland: the same restrictions apply under the Sunbeds Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.
The rules apply to salons, leisure centres, gyms, hotels and any other business that offers sunbeds, including coin-operated ones.
Why the age limit exists
The Health and Safety Executive notes that using UV tanning equipment before the age of 35 significantly increases the risk of several types of skin cancer, and that younger people seem to be more at risk from the cancer-causing effects of indoor tanning.
Will a salon ask for ID?
Many salons ask for proof of age before your first session, so take photo ID if you look young.
What about our lotions?
Sunbed lotions are designed to be used on sunbeds, so they're not suitable for under-18s. For a tan at any age, a self-tan product gives colour without UV.
Find out more about UK sunbed laws and whether sunbeds are safe.
