CAP warns sunbed firms against misleading health claims

New rules target false advertising

An oversight body has initiated a campaign to stop false claims about tanning beds in the United Kingdom. The Committee for Advertising Practice stated that firms must not claim beds are safe or treat medical conditions. In the first part of this year, the BBC discovered numerous social media clips asserting comparable health claims. These videos suggested beds could boost energy levels or cure skin and mental health problems.

Specific banned claims listed

The regulator identified suggestions that tanning beds ease eczema symptoms or improve brain function as potentially harmful. Some ads claimed the devices reduce inflammation or boost circulation for customers. The Advertising Standards Authority previously banned five adverts linking sunbeds to conditions like osteoporosis and depression. Cancer charities note that using a bed before age 35 increases melanoma risk by 59 percent later in life.

Industry response and regulations

The Sunbed Association supports action against misleading adverts but wants businesses allowed to demonstrate responsible operation. Chairman Gary Lipman said members would never encourage health claims to promote products. Training guidelines require staff to screen high-risk customers and limit purchases to 60 sessions a year. Under-18s remain banned from using the devices under current UK regulations.