Some Questions Answered

How many times a week can I sensibly use a sunbed?

People with skin type 1; children under 16 and people on certain medications that may cause photosensitivity; people with a history of skin cancer in their family should not use a sunbed at all. Moderate tanning of 2-3 sessions a week is OK for everyone else but ensure you rest the skin for a minimum of 24 hours between each session and at least 48 hours for skin type 2. The European Standard advises not to exceed 60 sessions per annum. You should note the following carefully and if you fall into one of the categories listed do not use a sunbed salon

What is a sunbed session?

A sunbed session is the length of time it takes to reach an individual's MED (minimal erythemal dose). This is the point prior to over-exposure and burning, which must always be avoided. A session will therefore depend on the type of sunbed being used, the skin type of the person using it and the development point of their tan. Never sunbathe outdoors on the same day you take a sunbed session. Make sure the sunbed salon makes a full assessment of you as an individual, before they offer advice. professional salons will keep records either on computer or on cards of each client. if they don't, beware and consider using an alternative sunbed salon.

Why will some sunbed salons let me use their sunbeds for longer sessions?

This depends entirely upon the type of sunbed being offered. The power and UV output varies considerably from sunbed to sunbed. A professional sunbed salon operator will advise on the correct session length, dependent upon sunbed, skin type and stage of tan development. Many sunbed salons will keep detailed records of your sunbed use and advise you accordingly. Listen to the advice of the Salon operator, and ask questions. If in any doubt seek medical advice about your personal use of Sunbed Salon equipment.

Is there a link between UV exposure and skin cancer?

There are two types of skin cancer - non-melanoma which can usually be easily treated. The second is malignant melanoma, which if not treated early enough can prove fatal.

Some evidence points to sunburn and over-exposure to UV being one of the possible risk factors in contracting skin cancer. It follows, therefore, that avoiding melanomas can be helped by controlling exposure to UV - particularly in children. Malignant melanoma is found to be most prevalent on parts of the body not normally exposed to sunlight, suggesting that it is those areas that have to deal with intermittent, excessive doses of UV that are most vulnerable - or that UV over-exposure is not the only cause. Controlled exposure to UV, either in sunlight or on a sunbed, is important to avoid over-exposure and sunburn. Sensible considered tanning is what is needed, and individual responsibility of the Sunbed Salon owner, staff and user is required to minimise risk.

What are the benefits of using a sunbed at a salon?

Sunbed Salons offer a controlled way to tan and can provide appropriate levels of UV to ensure sufficient levels of vitamin D are achieved and maintained. (See our link to Tanning Truth)

Tanning in sunlight means the body can be subjected to different levels of UV rays, depending on the time of day, location in the world, month of the year and so on. Sunbed Salon tanning programmes can be developed to ensure skin type and the type of sunbed being used, are taken into consideration to ensure that over exposure, including the possibility of burning, is avoided. There are a wide range of different sunbeds at the many different sunbed salons that feature in your area.

Is it true there is no such thing as a safe tan from a sunbed salon?

No. Tanned skin protects against sunburn, thought to be the main cause of melanoma. If you avoid getting sunburned, the benefits of moderate sun exposure (see vitamin D section) will far outweigh any risks.