The sunbed industry has come under scrutiny for its targeting of young people, with a call for stricter regulations to protect under-18s. Dublin West Aontó councillor Ellen Troy has joined the chorus of voices demanding a crackdown on 'rogue operators' who allow minors to use sunbeds, despite the fact that it is illegal for anyone under 18 to use them. Troy warns that the ultraviolet light from sunbeds can lead to the development of melanomas and non-melanoma skin cancers, and that the damage to young skin can be severe. She highlights the issue of 'happy hours' being advertised by some operators, which encourages children to use sunbeds without proper regulation. This practice can result in multiple sessions within a short period, causing significant harm to their skin. The call for action comes as a response to the growing concern over the health risks associated with sunbed use among the youth. With proper regulation and enforcement, the industry can be held accountable for ensuring the safety of young people. The question remains: will the authorities take decisive action to protect the vulnerable?
