FDA Orders Warning Labels on Tanning Beds

Black Box Safety Warnings Will Be Required

Tanning beds can cause skin cancer

According to a recent survey, nearly 1 out of 3 girls in the 12th grade has used some type of indoor tanning equipment. This has been a cause for concern for years. After issuing many warnings about the risks of skin cancer associated with using tanning beds, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will now require black-box safety warnings that state that tanning booths, ultraviolet tanning lamps and other similar products should not be used in individuals under 18 because of concerns for skin cancer.

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The FDA is advising those under the age of 18 against using tanning equipment. However, it is not prohibiting the tanning salons from serving those under 18 years of age. Some states however have issued a complete ban against tanning bed use for those under 18.

Many studies have found that children under the age of 18 who used tanning beds were at much increase risk of developing skin cancer. In one study, the American Academy of Dermatology found that people exposed to indoor tanning beds had a 59% increase risk of melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer.

Pristine Laser Center encourages everyone, and most importantly those under 18, to avoid using tanning beds or UV tanning lamps. Not only does it increase the risk of skin cancer, but many studies have shown premature skin wrinkling and premature aging of the skin. We encourage everyone to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen product and to take steps to keep their skin healthy and beautiful.

Keywords:
tanning beds, UV lamps, melanoma, FDA, skin cancer