Can you use SPF on a sunbed?

Why SPF is not enough

A sunbed uses lamps to produce UV radiation, which makes 'indoor sunshine' a fairly ambitious description of electrical equipment. Most tanning lamps emit both UVA and UVB, while some emit only UVA. The balance and intensity depend on the lamps; sunbed radiation can contain much more UVA than sunlight and can damage skin faster.23

SPF measures protection against UVB, the rays primarily responsible for sunburn. The SPF number alone does not describe UVA protection. Broad spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB; both types of radiation can cause skin cancer, and UVA also causes premature skin ageing. Even a high SPF sunscreen cannot block all UVB.14

These are general sunscreen principles, not a sunscreen routine for indoor tanning. UV tanning devices are classified as carcinogenic, meaning they can cause cancer. A tan is skin damage, not evidence that the exposure was safe, and a tan does not protect you from further sun damage.134

What if the salon asks for clean skin?

Sunbed exposure schedules are assessed on clean skin. Salon guidance includes removing cosmetics and deodorants and avoiding tanning accelerants. That is not a reason to tan without protection: the safer decision is to skip the session. Controlled exposure times and following equipment instructions still leave a risk of skin cancer. Do not treat sunscreen as a reason to extend a session.25

Who should be especially careful?

Sunbeds are not recommended for anyone. Do not use them if any of the following apply:

• You are under 18.
• You burn easily and do not tan.
• You or your family has a history of skin cancer.
• You take medicines that increase sensitivity to UV. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your medicine does this.
• You have skin lesions or open wounds.
• You get frequent cold sores, which UV exposure can trigger more often.

What if you have already used a sunbed?

Sunburn can take 6 to 48 hours to develop, so feeling fine immediately afterwards does not rule out a burn. If your skin becomes sore, cool it with water or a cool bath or shower, then apply a soothing aftersun product. Avoid further UV exposure while the burn heals. Seek medical help if you feel unwell or your skin swells badly or blisters.24

How to get colour without a sunbed

Self tanners come as lotions, creams and sprays, so a tanning bed is not the only way the beauty industry can sell you a tan. They colour dead cells at the skin's surface, and the colour usually lasts several days. Follow the label and keep the product away from your eyes, nose and mouth. Most self tanners do not contain sunscreen.2

Use SPF for outdoor protection

For time outdoors, including after using self tanner:

1. 1Choose broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
2. 2Apply it to dry, uncovered skin 15 minutes before going outside, including your ears, neck and tops of your feet.
3. 3Use about 1 ounce for exposed body skin; larger bodies can need more.
4. 4Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors and after swimming or sweating, following the bottle's directions.
5. 5Use shade and protective clothing too. Sunscreen alone cannot fully protect you.