Goal
To minimize the health and safety risks associated with indoor tanning facilities through routine inspections, complaint investigations and education for the operator and consumer.
What are the risks of tanning?
- Skin cancer
- Premature wrinkling
- Skin and eye burns
- Allergic reactions
- Reduced immunity
Do tanning devices increase the risk for developing skin cancer?
Yes, both indoor tanning devices and the sun have risks, but tanning devices have an increased risk.
Can I tan if I am on medication?
If you are taking any medicines, check with your doctor or pharmacist before you tan. If you are taking certain medicines and are exposed to UV radiation, you may have an allergic-type reaction.
It is best not to tan, but… If you choose to ignore the risks follow these precautions:
- ALWAYS use protective eyewear
- KNOW your skin type and FOLLOW the exposure schedule
- NEVER tan more than once in a 24 hr. period
- Make sure a trained operator is present at ALL times
- ALWAYS inform the operator of medication changes
- REPORT INJURIES to the tanning salon and to your local health department, and SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
- PERFORM self-examinations of the skin IT IS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY!
- Any unusual sore, lump, blemish, or change in appearance may be a sign of skin cancer AND you should make an appointment with your physician or dermatologist.
What does the tanning facility program do?
- Provides permit applications and procedure information to individuals interested in operating an indoor tanning facility.
- Inspects tanning facilities
- Provides educational information about the risk of indoor tanning
- Conducts complaint investigations
Where can I get more information about the risks of indoor tanning?
For more information please call 309-837-9951.