Age and ID
You must be 18 or over. Bring valid photo ID if you look under 25. Under-18s cannot use a sunbed or enter a restricted tanning area.
← Back to Tan King
Responsible
Know before you tan
Responsible
tanning.
Clear guidance, trained teams and a session plan suited to your skin. If anything is uncertain, please speak to us before using a UV sunbed.
UV tanning is not risk-free.
Sunbeds emit ultraviolet radiation, which can damage skin and eyes. Risks include skin cancer, premature skin ageing, sunburn and eye irritation. The NHS and Cancer Research UK advise people not to use sunbeds. If you choose to tan, following professional guidance can reduce—but cannot remove—the risks.
Your first visit
Four checks before any UV session.
Skin consultation
We assess your natural skin type, tanning history and the equipment being used before advising a session time.
Health and medication
Tell our team about medicines, creams, recent treatments or health conditions. Ask a pharmacist or GP if anything may increase sensitivity to UV.
Protective eyewear
Approved eye protection must be worn for the entire UV session. Closing your eyes does not protect them from UV.
Please stop and speak to us
Do not use a UV sunbed if…
- You are under 18.
- Your skin is very fair, burns easily and does not tan (skin type 1).
- Your skin is currently red, sore, irritated or sunburnt.
- You are taking medication or using a cream that may cause photosensitivity, unless a pharmacist or doctor has confirmed otherwise.
- You have had skin cancer, have a strong family history of it, or have been advised to avoid UV exposure.
- You are worried about a new or changing mole, growth, lump or patch of skin—contact your GP.
During your tanning course
Protect your skin every time.
Session length depends on your skin type, the specific sunbed and your tanning progress. Longer is not better.
Never take back-to-back sessions. Follow the spacing set by our team and do not tan if your skin feels warm, tight, red or sore.
Do not sunbathe outdoors on the same day as a UV sunbed session.
HSE guidance recommends removing cosmetics and deodorant before UV tanning. Ask our team before applying any product.
Common questions
Responsible tanning FAQs.
How long should my first session be?
There is no one time that suits everyone. Our team considers your skin type, recent UV exposure, tanning history and the output of the chosen equipment before advising you.
How often can I use a sunbed?
Only follow the personalised spacing recommended by our team. The Sunbed Association advises at least 24 hours between sessions and at least 48 hours for skin type 2. Never tan again while skin is red, sore or irritated.
Do I really need eye protection?
Yes. Approved protective eyewear must be worn throughout every UV session. Simply closing your eyes is not adequate protection.
Can medication affect tanning?
Yes. Some prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and topical creams can make skin more sensitive to UV. Check the leaflet and ask a pharmacist or GP before tanning; also tell our team.
Can I use a sunbed before or after sunbathing?
Do not combine outdoor sunbathing and a UV sunbed session on the same day. Both contribute to your total UV exposure.
What if I notice a change in my skin?
Do not tan over irritated or burnt skin. Contact your GP promptly about a new mole, growth or lump, or any mole, freckle or patch that changes size, shape or colour.
Read more
Trusted guidance.
This page provides general information, not medical advice. If you are unsure whether UV tanning is suitable for you, speak to a pharmacist or GP.