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Solariums are enclosed sun beds built with light tubes that release radiation from above and below your body. Solariums release UVA and UVB radiation.
Are solariums safe?
A solarium tan is not a safe tan. Solariums are not a safe way to tan and can result in serious damage to your skin. Just like the sun, solariums emit UVA and UVB radiation, which can damage skin and cause skin cancer. UV radiation from solariums can be just as intense, if not more so, than natural light.
Solariums that advertise ‘mini' or ‘high performance' tans that colour your skin in less than 10 minutes do this by exposing you to high levels of UV radiation. You are not reducing your risk of skin cancer by being in the solarium for a shorter period of time.
The Cancer Council does not support cosmetic tanning in solariums under any circumstances.
Think about the risk
If you are considering using a solarium, think carefully about all the risks. Solarium operators should provide you with correct information about the risks and ask you to sign a consent form before you proceed.
If you are unclear about the risks, or feel uncomfortable with what the operator tells you, we strongly advise that you don't go ahead.
Australian Standards has released guidelines for solariums that restrict operators from advertising their product as being safe or healthy and bans use of solariums by children under the age of 15.
Information
Information Sheet - Solarium
Position Statement Solariums
Poster Solarium
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