Solariums (tanning salons)

tanning; salons; solariums; UVA; UVB; sun; beds; UV;

 

• A solarium is an artificial tanning machine that uses high levels of UV radiation to induce a tan.
• Any radiation which causes tanning, including 'sun beds', tanning beds or solariums, will cause damage to the skin.

The use of solariums has been clearly related to the development of skin cancer - in particular melanoma.

• Some people believe that getting a tan from a solarium is safe because the light used is UVA light. This is not true. All UV light, including UVA, causes premature aging and wrinkling, and all forms of UV light contribute to the development of skin cancer. UVA penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB and may cause even greater harm.
• Solariums emit much higher levels of UV light than the mid-day sun.
• There are also dangers to the eyes from the radiation.

Regulations

South Australia and Victoria are the first states in Australia to put regulations in place for solarium users (2008). Some of the key points are:

• Minimum age of 18 years for solarium or sun bed use
• Health warning that solariums can cause skin cancer must be displayed
• People with fair skin cannot use solariums
• Solarium operators must have training, including skin type assessments
• Clients must be supervised by a trained operator
• Informed consent sought from all clients
• Restrictions on frequency and duration of tanning session.

There is also a revised Australian Standard (2009) for solariums.

More information

For more information about the regulations and the Standard have a look at information on the Cancer Council SA website: http://www.cancersa.org.au/aspx/Solariums.aspx

The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Parent Helpline on 1300 364 100 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).

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