Why Scotland Needs to Break Up with Sunbeds (Again)

But at What Cost?

By the late 2000s, the tide started to turn. People became more aware that exposing the skin to UV radiation — from the sun or sunbeds — significantly increases the risk of skin cancer.

Dermatologists warned us, public health campaigns educated us, and many wisely ditched the tanning beds.

So Why are They Back?

The Return of a Risky Trend

A recent survey by Melanoma Focus revealed that 43% of 18–25-year-olds in the UK are actively using sunbeds, with 28% of all adults admitting to it. In cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh, anecdotal reports suggest a rise in sunbed use among students and young professionals, chasing the "effortless glow" they see on social media.

But here’s the harsh truth: sunbeds are not a safer way to tan.

In fact, sunbeds emit up to 12 times more UV radiation than the midday sun, and there is no such thing as a safe tan from UV exposure.

According to Cancer Research UK:

Using sunbeds before age 35 increases your risk of melanoma by 59%
Just one session can start damaging your skin’s DNA
Scotland sees over 16,000 cases of skin cancer every year, with rates continuing to rise

So Why Are People Still Doing It?

Part of it comes down to social media pressure. Gen Z, the most online generation yet, is constantly exposed to curated, filtered images of bronzed, glowing influencers — many of whom are quietly (or not so quietly) endorsing sunbeds.

There's also a belief that modern sunbeds are safer. They’re not. The UV rays are still damaging, whether they come from the sun or a salon. And they age your skin faster than anything else — wrinkles, pigmentation, and sun spots all say "thanks" after a few sessions.

Safe Alternatives for a Healthy Glow

There are so many safer ways to get that summer glow — and they’ve come a long way from the tango-orange streaks of the early 2000s.

Gradual tans and tanning drops can be added to moisturisers for a custom glow
Professional spray tans offer long-lasting, even results
Mousse and foam tans have improved formulas and natural tones
Many brands now offer vegan, fragrance-free, sensitive skin-friendly options

And if you’re still not convinced? Remember this: a little exfoliating and moisturising beats a lifetime of skin checks and sun damage.

Protect Your Skin. It’s the Only One You’ve Got.

Glowing skin is great. Healthy skin is better. There’s no reason to sacrifice one for the other, especially with the tools and knowledge we now have. So, if you’re tempted to book a sunbed session, take a moment to think about what your skin will thank you for in ten years.

Because the best kind of beauty? Is the kind that lasts.

If you want to read more, the experts at Consulting Room really know what they're talking about and have put together lines and wrinkles, pigmentation and complexion improvement FAQs just for you.

If you have more questions, you can use the lines and wrinkles, pigmentation and complexion improvement questions feature to talk to our panel of trained medical experts.

If you're keen to get started with any of these treatments right away then you're in luck - those clever folks also have a list of trusted, accredited lines and wrinkles, pigmentation and complexion improvement clinics in your area.

Many thanks to the author of this blog Dr Sam Robson who owns Temple Clinic.

Dr Sam Robson is a highly respected and experienced practitioner who qualified as a GP in 1997 and has been practising aesthetic medicine since 2004.

She has also become progressively aware of the increasing incidence of low morale and self-esteem

The repertoire of treatments provided by the clinic aims to help address many problems.

Call Dr Sam Robson on 0122 486 9997 or visit www.templeclinic.co.uk.

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