Quick answer
Not always. Some medicines make your skin much more sensitive to UV, so a session that would normally be fine can burn you. Isotretinoin acne capsules, for example, carry an NHS warning not to use sunbeds, and the antibiotic doxycycline can make skin more sensitive to the sun. Check the leaflet that came with your medicine, and ask your pharmacist before tanning.
What "photosensitivity" means
Some medicines and treatments make skin react much more strongly to UV light. That can mean burning quickly, a rash, or irritation after a normal-length session.
Examples to be aware of
- Isotretinoin capsules (an acne treatment): the NHS medicine guide says do not use sunbeds or sunlamps while taking it.
- Doxycycline (an antibiotic): the NHS lists skin becoming more sensitive to the sun as a side effect.
These are examples, not a complete list. Many other medicines, including some creams and herbal remedies, can affect how your skin reacts to light.
What to do
- Read the patient leaflet that came with your medicine. Look for words like "sunlight", "sunbeds", "sunlamps" or "photosensitivity".
- Ask your pharmacist, especially if you've just started something new.
- Tell the salon about any medicines or skin treatments before your session.
- If in doubt, don't tan until you've checked. A burn from a sensitising medicine can be severe.
Skincare and treatments
Some skincare products, such as retinoid creams, and treatments like chemical peels can also make skin more sensitive. Ask the person who recommended them before using a sunbed. On the day of a session, remove perfume and make-up too: see what to do before your first sunbed session.
If you do react, see what to do if you burn on a sunbed.
