New State Law Now Bans Minors from Using Tanning Beds

Kids: stay away from tanning salons.

A new state law signed last week by Gov. Charlie Baker now bans anyone under the age of 18 from using tanning beds.

According to the Associated Press, the restriction will be implemented in hopes of reducing the risk of skin cancer among minors.

Using indoor tanning beds before the age 35 has been proven to increase the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology reports.

The risk increases exponentially with each use.

Still, nearly 59% of college students have reported using a tanning bed during their lives.

Massachusetts law previously allowed teenagers between the ages of 14 and 17 to visit tanning salons with consent from a parent or legal guardian.

Children under 14 had been able to use a tanning bed if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Photo courtesy of Evil Erin via Flickr and the Associated Press