Sunbed safety
Using a sunbed is never recommended. They are not a safe way to tan or boost your vitamin D.
Sunbeds and your health
Sunbeds expose you to higher levels of dangerous UV radiation than the sun. They increase your risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.
You are more at risk of skin cancer the more often you use sunbeds, and the younger you start using them. Your skin will also age faster.
Some people are especially at risk. Never use sunbeds if you:
- have pale skin that has lots of freckles and moles or does not tan easily
- have had skin cancer before
- are under 18 — even people under 30 are at higher risk.
Guidelines for sunbed operators
Ban on under-18s
It is illegal for sunbed operators to allow under-18s to use a sunbed. There is a fine of up to $2,000 for an individual, and $10,000 for a company, for non-compliance.
The following documents can be accepted as proof of age:
- a current passport
- a current New Zealand driving licence
- a Hospitality New Zealand card with their photograph and date of birth.
No other document is acceptable.
The ban was introduced because using a sunbed increases the risk of skin cancer, and the risk is even greater for rangatahi who use sunbeds. More reasoning behind these changes is available on the Ministry of Health’s website.
Reducing public harm from commercial sunbeds — Ministry of Healthexternal link
The ban is detailed in 'Part 5 — Artificial UV tanning services' of the Health Act 1956.
Health Act 1956 — New Zealand legislationexternal link
Sunbed operator standards
Standard AS/NZS 2635:2008 Solaria for cosmetic purposes sets voluntary guidelines for sunbed operators. But many sunbed operators do not follow these guidelines.
Public health staff assess how well sunbed operators comply with the standard. Findings from their assessments are available on the EMF Services website.