Tanning beds and sun lamps will carry new warnings that they should not be used by anyone under age 18 as the federal government works to reduce rising rates of skin cancer linked to the radiation-emitting devices.
The Food and Drug Administration has regulated tanning machines for over 30 years, but for the first time the agency is requiring manufacturers to warn consumers about the machines' cancer risks.
Along with the bolded age restriction on the machines, manufacturers must provide additional warnings about cancer risks in pamphlets, catalogues and websites that promote indoor tanning.
Additionally, the FDA is requiring manufacturers to meet certain safety and design requirements, including timers and limits on radiation emitted. Previously, tanning devices were not subject to any preliminary review by health regulators.