Sunbed firms must not downplay cancer risk, says watchdog
Summary
The UK Committee for Advertising Practice has issued an enforcement notice telling sunbed businesses not to downplay cancer risks or make unsupported medical claims. Advertisers have until 7 December 2026 to comply, and the notice follows earlier bans on five sunbed adverts.Key Facts
- The CAP says sunbed adverts must not claim the devices are safe, treat medical conditions, or provide vitamin D.
- The CAP identified claims that sunbeds could ease eczema, improve brain function, reduce inflammation, and boost circulation.
- The Advertising Standards Authority banned five adverts earlier in 2026 for claims about managing conditions including osteoporosis and depression.
- The World Health Organization says using a sunbed before age 35 raises later melanoma risk by 59%.
- A 2025 YouGov survey found that about one in seven UK residents aged 18 to 24 used a sunbed in the previous year, twice the average across age groups.
- Sunbed use is legal across the UK, but under-18s are barred from using the devices and rules limit the strength of their UV light.
- The Sunbed Association supports action against misleading adverts and says businesses should still be able to explain how they operate responsibly.
- Advertisers have until 7 December 2026 to ensure their claims comply with the rules.
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