This tanning trend can be as deadly as smoking
Photo: Why tanning in a tanning bed is harmful (Freepik)
Tanning beds, often seen as a quick route to the "perfect" tan, can pose serious health risks, especially for young people, according to the Department of Health and Social Care.
What we know about tanning bed risks
According to the World Health Organization, the harm from ultraviolet (UV) radiation in tanning beds is comparable to the risks of smoking, with people under 20 at particularly high risk.
As part of the National Cancer Control Plan, the government is considering stricter regulation of tanning salons. By 2027, ID checks for clients could become mandatory to protect teenagers and enforce the existing ban on under-18s using tanning beds.
The Ministry of Health and Social Care notes that even 14-year-olds still have access to salons that ignore the law.
Why tanning beds are dangerous
Tanning beds, like UV lamps, emit highly concentrated UV radiation, often stronger than natural sunlight. Excessive UV exposure damages skin cell DNA and disrupts body functions.
Cancer Research UK emphasizes that there is no safe UV tan. For those seeking a sun-kissed look, self-tanners or spray tans are far safer alternatives.
Excessive UV exposure is a leading cause of skin cancer. It also:
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Accelerates skin aging (wrinkles, dark spots, sagging)
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Can damage the eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts and ocular melanoma
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Suppresses the immune system, raising the risk of infections
Experts stress that chasing a tan is not worth the health risks, particularly for young people.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
