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Living > Public Health, Safety

Artificial Tanning

Save Our Skin! Take action! Support Canadian Cancer Society's ban on artificial tanning today!
Support the Canadian Cancer Society's call to action

Sign an Online Petition to

Support the Canadian Cancer Society's call to action on the Government of Ontario to protect children and youth from the harmful effects of UVR by restricting access to tanning beds before the age of 18 years of age. Every vote counts! Click on the image above and send a SOS vote today, it's quick and easy.

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR), such as that emitted from artificial tanning equipment, is a known human carcinogen. Exposure to UVR before the age of 18 is especially damaging and can increase a person's risk of developing skin cancer both early and later in life.

Some tanning salons claim that artificial tanning beds, sun lamps and booths are safer than the sun.

There is no safe way to tan.
Tanned skin is damaged skin.

Similar to the sun, tanning beds and sun lamps emit ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause sunburn, premature skin aging and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Before you decide to go to a tanning salon, consider the facts:

  • Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) damages skin cells
  • Some tanning beds can emit up to 2-5 times more UVA radiation than natural sunlight
  • Use of tanning beds puts you at risk for damage to the eye's cornea and lens, and can cause painful eye conditions
  • Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) weakens the immune system, and could affect your body's ability to defend against serious illness

Safety Tips

  • Minors (under 18 years of age) and individuals with sensitive skin should not use tanning beds
  • Always protect your eyes by wearing the safety eyewear
  • Stop using the tanning bed if itching, burning or skin discomfort develops. Seek medical help
  • Be aware that medications (both prescribed and over-the-counter) and certain cosmetics can increase the skin's sensitivity to UVR. If taking medication, a physician or pharmacist should be consulted before using tanning equipment

Information From: Health Canada and the Canadian Dermatology Association

Alternatives to Tanning

  • Self tanning creams and lotions are safe
  • Try using cosmetic bronzers
  • Wear colours that bring out your natural "glow" (pink, blues and greens)

Going South? Tips to Protect Yourself

  • Apply sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 15 or higher, for 20 minutes before going outdoors
  • Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming
  • Wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses
  • Look for shaded areas to enjoy outdoors activities

UV Index & Sun Protection Actions

UV INDEX
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
0-2
Low
 Minimal sun protection required for normal activity.
Wear sunglasses on bright days and cover up and use sunscreen if outside for more than one hour.
3-5
Moderate
 Take precautions.
If outside for 30 minutes or more, cover up, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen and look for shade near midday when the sun is strongest.
6-7
High
 Protection Required.
Reduce sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Take full precautions by covering up, wearing at hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
8-10
Very High
 Extra precautions required.
Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Take full precautions by covering up, wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn quickly.
+11
Extreme
 Take full precautions.
Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Cover up; wear sunglasses and sunscreen.
Unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn in minutes.

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