**TL;DR Sunbeds should be banned because they significantly contribute to the increasing numbers of skin cancer cases, in February 2020 it was discovered that 10 million cases of skin cancer could have been prevented if there was a ban on sunbeds.** There are no benefits to using a sunbed, they radiate dangerous levels of UV rays which causes many health problems. The UVA and UVB rays emitted from a sunbed penetrate the skin and damage the DNA in skin cells. Over time, the damaged DNA builds up, the cells grow out of control and end up causing cancer. Some countries have already banned the use of sunbeds, such as Brazil in 2009 and then Australia in January 2015. The health threat that sunbeds impose should inspire other countries (such as the UK) to also ban use of the machines. A survey in 2019 from the British Skin Foundation found that 77% of dermatologists agreed that sunbeds should be banned completely in the UK, whilst 91% agreed that sunbeds significantly contribute to the increasing rate of skin cancer cases and agreed that sunbed age restrictions should be lifted from 18 to 21. Consistent use of sunbeds also contributes to wrinkles and early skin aging. When high numbers of experts in the field are urging for sunbeds to be illegal, this should symbolise the dangerous effects of sunbeds on our skin and that they should be banned. There is also no need to risk the dangers of sunbeds when there is a safe alternative. The fake tan industry is constantly growing, in 2018 it is estimated to be worth $1.4 billion and is projected to grow much more as a result of fears about the dangers of UV rays. The fake tan market is improving a lot by developing various shades, textures and methods of application. There are even fake tans which include SPF protection, so provides a tan whilst also protecting your skin. Dermatologist Dr. Anjali Mahto says that ‘using a fake tan is considerably safer than lying in the sun or tanning booth.’ Therefore, risking the health dangers of sunbeds seem pointless when there is a safer (but just as effective) other tanning tool on the market. Sunbeds are contributing to pressures on the health system, the cases of skin cancer are rising to dangerous levels. Sunbeds should be banned to prevent these health risks, especially since there are much safer alternatives. WORKS CITED: ‘77% of Dermatologists agree that sunbeds should be banned in the UK’ (July 2019), https://www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk/news/77-of-dermatologists-agree-sunbeds-should-be-banned-in-the-uk ‘A UK Sunbed ban – the best step towards protecting our skin’ (1 May 2020), https://www.tancream.co.uk/a-uk-sunbed-ban-the-best-step-towards-protecting-our-skin ‘Self-tanning products market size’ (July 2019), https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/self-tanning-products-market Goddard Sophie, ‘Is fake tanning safe? We ask a dermatologist’ (14 November 2019), https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/beauty/skincare/a28445/can-fake-tan-damage-your-skin/