SKCIN Welcomes Government Consultation on Stronger Sunbed Regulations

xSKCIN has welcomed the Government’s announcement of a new public consultation on strengthening the regulation of commercial sunbeds in England, marking a significant step forward in efforts to better protect children, young people and vulnerable individuals from the well-established risks associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Launched by the Department of Health and Social Care, the consultation seeks views on a range of proposals designed to improve compliance with existing legislation, strengthen consumer protection and promote safer practices within the commercial sunbed industry.

The proposed measures include:

• Mandatory age verification checks to prevent under-18s accessing commercial sunbeds
• Mandatory supervision of commercial sunbed use
• Stronger health warnings and risk information for consumers
• Restrictions on misleading health claims that suggest sunbeds provide health benefits
• Improved provision and use of protective eyewear
• Measures to strengthen existing protections for children and young people

The consultation follows growing concern that current regulations are not being consistently enforced, with reports indicating that some under-18s continue to access commercial sunbed services despite legislation prohibiting their use.

For more than 15 years, SKCIN has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the serious health risks associated with sunbed use and advocate for stronger regulation, prevention and public education. Throughout this time, the charity has consistently highlighted the proven link between artificial UV exposure and skin cancer risk, particularly amongst young people.

SKCIN has long called for improved public information, enhanced protection for children and young people, and greater awareness of the dangers associated with commercial sunbed use. Having contributed recommendations to the National Cancer Plan and continuing to engage with the Department of Health and Social Care on skin cancer prevention policy, we are encouraged to see meaningful action being taken on this important public health issue.

The consultation also represents an important opportunity for members of the public, healthcare professionals, businesses, local authorities and other stakeholders to help shape the future of sunbed regulation in England. Subject to the outcome of the consultation, strengthened protections could be introduced as early as 2027.

The Government has also indicated that it will continue to review the evidence surrounding sunbed use and consider whether further measures may be required to reduce future skin cancer risk, with additional evidence gathering expected later this year.

The announcement comes at a time when skin cancer rates continue to rise across the UK. In 2023 alone, there were almost a quarter of a million new skin cancer diagnoses, placing a significant burden on individuals, families and healthcare services. Yet around 90% of skin cancer cases are considered preventable, reinforcing the critical importance of prevention, education, regulation and early intervention.

Research has consistently demonstrated that exposure to UV radiation from sunbeds increases the risk of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly when use begins at a young age. Despite this, misconceptions regarding the safety and perceived benefits of sunbed use remain widespread.

As a charity dedicated to skin cancer prevention and early detection, SKCIN believes that stronger regulation, improved public awareness and effective enforcement of existing legislation are essential to reducing avoidable harm and protecting future generations from preventable skin cancer.

We strongly encourage everyone with an interest in this important public health issue to take part in the consultation and help shape measures designed to improve protection from the dangers of artificial UV exposure.