Sunbed Safety

If you're planning on using a sunbed to get a tan, it's important to follow certain precautions. According to Metro.co.uk News, sunbeds are believed to kill around 100 people each year from related skin cancer. Proper safety is vital to help lower your risk.

Age

• Children have more delicate, vulnerable skin than adults. The Chiltern District Council recommends avoiding sunbed usage until the age of 16.

Oils

• Many tanning oils are designed for natural light and can harm skin when exposed to the intense direct light of a sunbed. Always make sure any oils you use are made from natural extracts and approved for sunbed use.

Timing

• Make sure you do not tan longer than recommended by the sunbed manufacturer. Keep track of the time you spend in the tanning bed and keep a friend nearby to wake you if you accidentally fall asleep while tanning.

Family History

• If you have a family history of cancer or skin disease, even small amounts of sunbed tanning are not safe and should be avoided.

Skin Condition

• Never use a sunbed if your skin is burned or peeling from previous tanning. Additionally, people with a lot of moles, freckles or very pale skin should avoid sunbeds.

Medication

• Carefully read the warning labels on all your prescription and over-the-counter medications. Certain drugs and ointments can increase UV sensitivity, making sunbed tanning unsafe.