Faroe Islands health authority proposes stricter regulations on sunbeds

The Faroese health authority has proposed updating the country’s 2015 sunbed regulations to include stricter age limits and expanded oversight, Kringvarp Føroya reports.

Under the proposed changes, the minimum age for sunbed use would be raised to 18, and all cosmetic tanning services—including solariums and tanning lamps—would fall under the same regulatory framework. The health authority also recommends introducing clearer registration requirements and stronger monitoring, aligning with standards in other European countries.

Research cited by the authority shows that sunbed users face a 20% higher risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. For those who begin using sunbeds before age 35, the risk increases by 59%. The practice also raises the likelihood of other skin cancers.

The Faroese Health Directorate advises against sunbed use entirely, emphasizing the well-documented health risks. The proposal will now be reviewed by the newly established Public and Health Affairs Council.