UK Government Proposes ID Checks to Curb Underage Sunbed Use
Crackdown on illegal underage sunbed use could see ID checks at all salons

Image: Metro
The UK government is considering new regulations to prevent under-18s from using sunbeds, which are already banned for this age group. Proposed measures include mandatory ID checks at salons and stricter health warnings about the risks of sunbed use, aiming to reduce skin cancer rates among young people.
- 01Under-18s are currently prohibited from using sunbeds, but many bypass this rule through contactless payments.
- 02New proposals would mandate staff to check IDs before allowing sunbed use, with a consultation running for 12 weeks.
- 03In 2023, nearly a quarter of a million new skin cancer cases were diagnosed in the UK, costing the NHS approximately £750 million annually.
- 04Public health officials emphasize that sunbeds significantly increase cancer risk, especially for young users.
- 05Organizations like Teenage Cancer Trust support the proposals, highlighting the need for better education on the risks associated with sunbed use.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The UK government is considering new regulations to combat the illegal use of sunbeds by individuals under 18 years of age. Despite existing bans, many teenagers manage to access sunbeds through anonymous payment methods. Proposed measures include requiring salon staff to check customer IDs prior to use, alongside mandatory health warnings about the risks associated with sunbed use. Public health minister Sharon Hodgson emphasized the dangers of sunbeds, stating that they significantly increase the risk of cancer, particularly for young people. In 2023, the UK saw nearly a quarter of a million new skin cancer diagnoses, costing the NHS an estimated £750 million annually. The consultation period for these proposals will last for 12 weeks, with potential implementation of new rules as early as next year. Health experts and organizations, including the Teenage Cancer Trust and Skcin skin cancer charity, have expressed support for these measures, highlighting the urgent need for stronger regulations to protect young people from the risks of sunbeds. The government plans to further assess the situation in autumn 2026.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The proposed regulations aim to protect teenagers from the health risks associated with sunbed use, potentially reducing future skin cancer cases.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you support mandatory ID checks for sunbed use?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.





