ALERT: HSE warn beauty treatment can increase skin cancer chances by 75%

The HSE has issued a statement on X highlighting the startling link between using sunbeds and skin cancer. 

Using sunbeds before the age of 35 increases the chances of developing melanoma skin cancer by 75%. 

Almost 20% of the population in Ireland has used a sunbed at some point in there lives. 

3% of people use a sunbed weekly.

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Research has shown that the UV radiation lights used in sunbeds emit up to five times as strong as the Australian midday sun. 

Using sunbeds for the first time before the age of 35 increases your risk of developing melanoma skin cancer by 75%.

Be #SunSmart and never use sunbeds.

Learn more: https://t.co/uEyOubxcT4 pic.twitter.com/B9JuF25pEo

— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) September 26, 2025

The lights used in sunbeds damage your the DNA cells in your skin, making it more likely for cancers to develop on your skin.

Sunbeds can also age your skin by causing wrinkles and brown spots.

The HSE warns that there is no safe way to use a sunbed and all users are at risk. 

It has also debunked some popular myths. 

One of which is that using a sunbed does not prevent sunburn, stating that if your skin burns in the sun, it will also burn in a sunbed.

Sunbed use is not advised as a treatment to skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Sunbeds do not provide a source of Vitamin D.