Why Scotland Needs to Break Up with Sunbeds (Again)

Why Scotland Needs to Break Up with Sunbeds (Again)

Sunbeds were once the go-to "glow-up" for many Scots. In the 1990s and early 2000s, tanning beds boomed in popularity — promising a golden glow without the mess of fake tan or the unreliability of Scottish sunshine.

But here we are, decades later, and somehow, sunbeds are making a comeback. And this time, it’s Gen Z leading the charge.

 Tanning in a Country That’s Not Exactly Tropical

Let’s face it — Scotland isn’t famous for its sun-soaked summers. With our fair skin tones and long winters, it’s easy to see why sunbeds once felt like the perfect solution. No orange streaks, no biscuit smell, no need to scrub off fading tan.

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.