18 Northern Ireland salons fined after children found illegally using sunbeds
Only eight councils issued fines in response to reported breaches
Almost 20 salons across parts of Northern Ireland have been fined thousands after children were found illegally using sunbeds.
New data has revealed that several beauty and tanning salons in Northern Ireland were slapped with fines of £4,500 after being found to have allowed under 17s to use sunbeds, breaching national regulations designed to protect young people from harmful UV exposure.
New data obtained through a Freedom of Information request shows at least 18 cases in Northern Ireland between 2016 and 2025.
The data was uncovered by The Devonshire Clinic, a leading dermatology clinic specialising in skin cancer. They asked local authorities across the UK to disclose any reports of sunbed use involving individuals aged 17 or under.
The request was made in reference to The Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010, which prohibits commercial sunbed use by anyone under the age of 17.
Among the most alarming findings in Northern Ireland, all incidents involved underage girls with Co Armagh recording at least 13 incidents, totalling £3,250 in penalty fines. Co Derry also saw five cases reported, with a fine of £1,250 to businesses breaching the law.
These cases are particularly concerning given that younger skin is more susceptible to long-term UV damage. Research shows that exposure to artificial UV radiation before the age of 18 significantly increases the risk of developing melanoma later in life, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Across the UK, Tyne and Wear recorded the highest number of incidents involving under-18s, with 23 reported cases, yet no financial penalties were issued. Similarly, Greater London reported 20 cases and West Yorkshire recorded eight, both with zero fines. This pattern of inaction raises serious concerns about how effectively the law is being enforced.
In contrast, a small number of councils did pursue penalties. While tanning salons in Co Armagh were issued £3,250 in fines in response to 13 incidents, Kent imposed the highest total fine amount in the UK at £5,280 for 13 cases. Bristol also acted, with £4,000 in penalties across seven reported cases.
While some local authorities have taken enforcement action against salons breaching the law, the vast majority have not. Of the top five councils with the highest number of underage sunbed incidents, a staggering 80% were issued no fines at all.
Only eight councils issued fines in response to reported breaches across all 66 council areas that responded to the FOI request.
Despite clear legal restrictions, a lack of enforcement appears to be enabling businesses such as tanning studios, gyms and beauty salons to allow underage sunbed use, putting children and teenagers at risk of serious health consequences.
Dr Conal Perrett, consultant dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic, which conducted the research, warns that this is a public health issue that is often overlooked: “The dangers of sunbeds are widely underestimated, particularly when it comes to young people. It’s deeply concerning to see under-18s still accessing tanning salons, despite regulations designed to protect them from serious and preventable harm.
“We’re seeing individuals suffer severe burns, lasting skin damage, and in some cases long-term health issues such as premature ageing and increased skin cancer risk, including melanoma. Teenage skin is especially vulnerable to UV radiation, making early exposure even more damaging.”
He added: “A tan from a sunbed is not a sign of health, it’s a sign of skin damage. For young people in particular, safer alternatives like self-tanning products offer the desired glow without putting their future health at risk.
“Regulations are in place for a good reason. We urgently need better enforcement, greater public awareness, and a shift in attitudes around tanning, especially among young people and children.”
Dr Perrett also shared that parents could play a vital role in preventing sunbed use by:
- Starting early conversations – “talk to children about body image, sun safety, and the real risks of sunbeds, especially as they approach their teenage years.”
- Encouraging confidence – “be honest about natural skin tones and promote healthier alternatives such as sunless tanning products if your child expresses a desire to tan.”
- Being aware of beauty pressures – “the rise of social media trends glamorises tanning; stay informed about what your children are viewing online to help them critically assess these influences.”
- Monitoring behaviour and environments – “if your child is spending time unsupervised in areas with tanning salons, it’s worth checking whether those businesses are complying with age restrictions.”
- Setting an example – “by visibly practising good sun protection habits yourself, you reinforce the message that health comes before appearance.”
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