INTANZ supports any effort to ensure sunbed users have responsibly operated outlets in which to tan

We particularly endorse the latest call following the melanoma summit to prohibit the operation of unsupervised commercial sunbed operations.

Whether you are outside in the sun or indoors on a sunbed you must ensure your Ultra Violet (UV) exposure is appropriate to your skin type. This ensures you do not over expose and cause skin damage.

As sunbeds are not all alike users must take the advice of responsible operators to establish an appropriate tanning session time for their skin type and the level of tan they already have. Whilst there is no causal relationship between sunbeds and melanoma ensuring users of sunbeds are provided these services in an environment that supports controlled moderate tanning is a must.

Nothing would survive on the planet without UV light; it is vital and necessary to life. The question under much debate is how much is the best balance between over exposure which may lead to an increased risk of melanoma and too little which may result in increased risk to many other diseases or illnesses including breast cancer, prostate cancer, multiple sclerosis, eczema, depression and more. At this time the answer is unclear; much research is happening worldwide as well as much debate.

We do know:

• 65% of New Zealanders have insufficient levels of vitamin D (Study ? )
• Sunshine and sunbeds both emit UV which enables vitamin D production
• Sunshine, sunbeds, tobacco, asbestos, red wine, beer and salted fish are all in the same carcinogen classification (WHO classification)

Much like red wine or beer, a little UV can be good for you, a lot is bad for you. Also, the binge culture associated with UV exposure needs to stop too. Kiwi’s are very good at getting out in the sun when the first signs of summer arrive and forget to watch the UV Index advice. This is dangerous behaviour that needs to change.

INTANZ believes in the right of individuals to acquire a tan. Our advice is whether you get your UV exposure from sunshine or sunbeds, moderate responsible exposure appropriate to your skin type is vital. The fairer you are the less exposure you require for a tan or vitamin D. Maintain a light tan year round not only will you look great you’ll feel well too.