Story perspectives

FDA Withdraws Tanning Bed Ban for Minors, Experts Disappointed

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withdrew a rule to ban tanning bed use for those under 18.
State laws restrict minors from using tanning devices.
2015 proposal aimed to mitigate skin cancer risk from tanning beds that emit significantly higher UV radiation.
Experts expressed disappointment and noted early tanning-bed exposure increases melanoma risk.
The FDA emphasized withdrawal does not negate UV risks and encourages discussions with healthcare providers.

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Story summary

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withdrew a rule to ban tanning bed use for those under 18.
State laws restrict minors from using tanning devices.
2015 proposal aimed to mitigate skin cancer risk from tanning beds that emit significantly higher UV radiation.
Experts expressed disappointment and noted early tanning-bed exposure increases melanoma risk.
The FDA emphasized withdrawal does not negate UV risks and encourages discussions with healthcare providers.