Quick answer
UK health guidance says you shouldn't use a sunbed if you have very fair skin, burn easily or have had skin cancer, and it's illegal for under-18s to use one in any business. Take extra care, and get advice first, if you have lots of moles or freckles, a family history of skin cancer, or take medicine that makes your skin sensitive to light.
Don't use a sunbed if you:
- Are under 18. It's illegal for any business in the UK to let you. See can you use a sunbed under 18?
- Have very fair skin. See what's my skin type?
- Burn easily in the sun, or tend to burn rather than tan.
- Have had skin cancer.
These come from the UK Health Security Agency's sunbed safety advice.
Get advice first if you:
- Have lots of moles or freckles. The NHS lists a large number of moles or freckles as a risk factor for melanoma. Read sunbeds, moles and freckles.
- Have a family history of skin cancer.
- Take medicine that makes skin sensitive to light, such as some antibiotics and acne treatments. Read sunbeds and medication.
- Have a skin condition or a medical condition that affects your skin.
- Are pregnant. Ask your midwife or GP.
Stop and see your GP if you notice
- A mole that has changed size, shape or colour
- A mole that is itchy, sore, bleeding or crusty
- A new or unusual mark on your skin that hasn't gone away after a few weeks
If none of these apply
UK guidance still discourages sunbeds for cosmetic tanning. If you're an adult and choose to use one, ask the salon for guidance, limit how often you use it and never let your skin burn. Start with how long to sunbed as a beginner and how to avoid burning on a sunbed.
