New Age Checks to Bar Under-18s from Sunbeds Across the UK

Dr. Emma Clarke

The government plans to introduce new age verification measures for sunbed use, aiming to protect young people from the associated health risks. This move follows growing concerns about skin cancer rates among younger demographics.

New laws will mandate age checks for sunbed use.
Aims to protect individuals under 18 from health risks.
Comes amidst rising concerns over skin cancer.
Health risks include increased melanoma risk.
Part of broader public health initiatives.

The government is set to introduce new legislation mandating age verification for individuals wishing to use sunbeds, in a move designed to safeguard young people from the well-documented health hazards associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The proposed laws will require sunbed operators to ensure that users are over the age of 18, bringing sunbed access in line with other age-restricted products and services.

This initiative stems from a growing body of evidence highlighting the dangers of UV exposure, particularly for younger skin. Medical experts have consistently warned about the increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, linked to sunbed use. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, and its incidence has been rising, prompting calls for stricter regulations to protect public health.

Currently, while some voluntary measures or local bylaws exist, there is no universal legal requirement across the UK for age verification when using sunbeds. The new legislation aims to standardise this protection, ensuring that all commercial sunbed establishments comply with a national minimum age of 18. This will involve operators implementing robust age-checking procedures, similar to those used for alcohol or tobacco sales.

The Department of Health and Social Care is expected to outline the specifics of the new regulations, which will likely include guidance for businesses on how to effectively implement the age verification process. This could involve requiring photo identification or other verifiable proof of age before allowing access to sunbed facilities. The move is part of a broader government commitment to public health and preventative measures against chronic diseases.

While the precise timeline for the implementation of these new laws is yet to be fully detailed, the government's commitment underscores a preventative approach to public health. The legislation is anticipated to be welcomed by health organisations and medical professionals who have long advocated for stronger protections against the risks of artificial tanning.

Why this matters: This legislation is crucial for public health, particularly in protecting young people from the long-term dangers of UV radiation and reducing future rates of skin cancer. It reflects a proactive approach to preventative healthcare.

What this means for you: What this means for you: If you operate a sunbed business, you will need to implement strict age verification procedures. For individuals under 18, access to commercial sunbeds will become legally prohibited across the UK.

New Age Checks to Bar Under-18s from Sunbeds Across the UK

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