Tanning guide

Skin types and sunbeds

Your skin type decides how your skin reacts to UV: whether it burns, how easily it tans, and whether a sunbed is suitable for you at all. This guide explains the skin types, who shouldn't use sunbeds, and what to watch for on your skin.

Questions in this guide

Can you use a sunbed while taking medication?Not always. Some medicines make your skin much more sensitive to UV, so a session that would normally be fine can burn...
Sunbeds, moles and freckles: what you need to knowLots of moles or freckles is a sign your skin is more at risk from UV. The NHS lists a large number...
Can dark skin burn on a sunbed?Yes. Darker skin has more natural protection, so it burns less easily, but it can still burn and UV still damages it....
Who shouldn't use a sunbed?UK health guidance says you shouldn't use a sunbed if you have very fair skin, burn easily or have had skin cancer,...
What's my skin type, and what does it mean for sunbeds?Your skin type is about how your skin naturally reacts to UV, not how tanned you are now. Dermatologists use the Fitzpatrick...

Start with your skin type

Dermatologists describe skin using the Fitzpatrick scale, from type 1 (always burns, never tans) to type 6 (deeply pigmented skin that rarely burns). It's about how your skin naturally reacts, not how tanned you are now. Work out yours in what's my skin type?

Who shouldn't use a sunbed

UK health guidance says people with very fair skin, people who burn easily and anyone who has had skin cancer should not use sunbeds, and it's illegal for under-18s. Get advice first if you have lots of moles, a family history of skin cancer, or take medicine that makes you sensitive to light. Full details in who shouldn't use a sunbed and sunbeds and medication.

Darker skin still needs care

Brown and black skin burns less easily but can still burn, and a burn may not look red. Read can dark skin burn on a sunbed?

Know your moles

Lots of moles or freckles is a sign your skin is more at risk from UV. Learn the warning signs in sunbeds, moles and freckles, and see your GP about any mole that changes.