Latest news with #RossPerry
The Sun
11-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
These frozen in time celebs have barely aged a day – can you guess how much time has passed between their two pics?
THE world of celebrity beauty is always full of intrigue, keeping us guessing and wondering how they do it. Recently, it seems some stars have uncovered the secret to slowing - or even reversing - the signs of ageing. 23 23 23 Good genes and a healthy lifestyle play their part, but there may be more to the glow of our favourite celebs. From subtle touch-ups to more noticeable transformations, some age-defying celebrities have barely aged since their twenties. And to show just how frozen in time these celebrities truly are, we've included side-by-side photos of them at 20 and how they look today. Can you guess how many years there are between each pic? Skin specialist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Ross Perry reveals what they might have had done - and how much it all costs. Tyra Banks Supermodel Tyra Banks certainly knows how to strike a pose and steal the spotlight when it comes to working the cameras. At 51, she looks just as stunning as she did during her modelling days in 2000. Dr. Ross says: 'There's a reason Tyra Banks became a supermodel. 'Genetically blessed with striking facial features, though she has admitted to undergoing nose surgery in her younger years, Tyra still looks as incredible today as she did at 20. 'Her skin remains completely flawless and virtually line-free. One factor that contributes to this is her skin type. 'Black skin tends to age more slowly and show fewer signs of aging compared to lighter skin tones, primarily due to a higher concentration of melanin. 'Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen, offering greater protection against sun damage, one of the biggest causes of premature aging. 'Also, darker skin typically has a thicker dermis and more compact collagen bundles, which contribute to its firmness and resilience over time." 23 23 Answer: 31 "That said, it's highly likely that Tyra has had some tweakments along the way," he adds. 'While Tyra may have had subtle assistance to maintain her youthful appearance, it's clear that her genetics, smart skincare choices and likely a carefully curated tweakment routine have all played a role in preserving her iconic beauty.' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Botox: £1,050 a year (£350 per session, every four months) Profhilo: £950 for initial two sessions, with top-ups at £475 every 4-6 months Fractional Ablative Laser Skin Resurfacing: £2,250 for three initial sessions, plus maintenance Regular Facials: £2,400+ a year (£200+ a month) TOTAL COST OVER 31 YEARS: £161,150 Lindsay Lohan 23 23 23 Answer: 19 years She starred in Freaky Friday where she swapped lives with her mum, but it seems Lindsay Lohan has mastered the art of barely aging in real life. At 39, she's undergone the ultimate glow-up, looking like she is turning back the clock. Dr Ross Perry explains: 'In the last 18 months, Lindsay Lohan has undergone the ultimate glow-up, looking even better now than she did 20 years ago. She appears more radiant, more refreshed, and more polished. 'While Lindsay has firmly denied undergoing plastic surgery, she has openly credited her skincare regime and a few advanced aesthetic treatments for her transformation. "Among her favourites? IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) laser facials, which help to brighten the skin and reduce pigmentation for a clearer, more even complexion. "She's also a fan of Morpheus8, a cutting-edge treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, tighten skin, and improve texture. These are said to include a nose job, eyelid surgery, Botox, fillers, a facelift, dental enhancements, and cheek implants Dr. Ross Perry 'Lindsay's porcelain skin tone and natural freckles mean she has always had to be extra careful with sun exposure. "It's likely that daily SPF protection has been a staple in her skincare routine since childhood. "Being fair-skinned, she would be particularly prone to sun damage and premature ageing, so avoiding the sun and investing in skin protection has clearly paid off. 'If you look back at Lindsay in her 20s, there was a period when she appeared to overindulge in cosmetic treatments, most notably lip fillers, cheek fillers, and Botox. "However, her current look is a masterclass in subtle tweakments. Any previous overuse appears to have been dialled back and refined, giving her a much more balanced and natural appearance. 'The biggest rumour surrounding her transformation? A full facelift, although this has been fiercely denied. "Should this have taken place, it would typically cost anywhere between £12,000 and £30,000+, depending on the extent of the surgery and the surgeon's expertise.' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Kris Jenner 23 23 Answer: 49 years Kris Jenner has always been the ultimate matriarch, but at 69, she arguably looks better than ever. Kris has built her look alongside the Kardashian empire, where beauty and speculation go hand in hand. Dr Ross Perry explains: 'Kris Jenner arguably looks the best she ever has, fresh-faced, polished and, yes, noticeably different from how she appeared two decades ago. 'While the shift in her appearance can certainly be attributed to a skilled surgeon and a team of top-tier aesthetic experts, it's also a testament to the Kardashian brand itself. "After all, few families have built an empire on beauty, speculation, and reinvention quite like the Kardashians, and perhaps nothing captures public attention more than the 'has she or hasn't she?' conversation around cosmetic work. 'To Kris's credit, she's been fairly open about dabbling in aesthetic treatments, and it's been widely reported that she has spent upwards of half a million pounds on procedures over the years. 'These are said to include a nose job, eyelid surgery, Botox, fillers, a facelift, dental enhancements, and cheek implants. Her most recent procedure, a deep plane facelift, reportedly cost around £100,000 alone. 'But keeping up with Kris is a full-time commitment. Her current glow is said to be maintained through a mix of advanced non-surgical treatments, including:' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Mariah Carey 23 23 Answer: 36 Mariah Carey, the ultimate diva, has perfected her signature look over the years, barely changing despite the passing decades. At 56, she continues to radiate glamour, with her youthful appearance sparking rumours of subtle cosmetic enhancements. Known for her extravagant lifestyle - complete with beauty treatments like bathing in milk and hiring masseuses for hours-long pampering sessions - Mariah's approach to self-care is nothing short of iconic. Dr Ross Perry explains: 'Mariah Carey's signature look has barely changed over the years. 'Yes, there has been weight loss and weight gain, which has resulted in more of a rounded and puffy face in appearance, often leading to speculation of the overuse of fillers and rumours of a breast enlargement. "However, the procedures Mariah has no doubt done have been carefully and subtly executed. 'She is, after all, the ultimate diva, with rumours suggesting she uses milk as a beauty treatment and once allegedly paid a masseuse $1,500 (£1,144) to massage her for eight hours while she slept. "These rumours only add fuel to her brilliant 'diva qualities.' 'I don't doubt she looks after her body with a daily personal trainer, private chef, and leads a healthy lifestyle - all contributing factors to ageing well. "I'd also say she stays out of the sun, but equally, as she has such few lines, she has no doubt used Botox to fill out her lines, done in a way that lifts her eyes rather than making them droop. 'Other than that, she may have possibly had some filler to keep the youthful cheeks nice and full-looking - very much a signature of Mariah's - and then, alongside this, likely laser resurfacing on the skin and possibly Profhilo.' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Cher 23 23 Answer: 60 years Cher has always been the queen of reinvention, defying age and gravity with her timeless beauty and iconic silhouette. At nearly 80, she still turns heads, proving that age is just a number. Known for her openness about cosmetic enhancements, Cher has reportedly spent over £500,000 on procedures and treatments to maintain her youthful glow – a testament to her commitment to looking and feeling her best. Dr Ross Perry explains: 'Cher has long defied the rules of ageing and gravity, and at nearly 80, she still turns heads with her youthful glow and unmistakable silhouette. 'While she's never shied away from discussing her love of cosmetic enhancement, it's estimated that the global superstar has spent over £500,000 on plastic surgery and aesthetic treatments over the years. 'Among the most widely reported procedures are multiple facelifts, several breast augmentations, regular Botox and lip fillers, rhinoplasty, and potentially cheek implants - though Cher has always fiercely denied this rumour. 'For someone nearing 80, the fullness in Cher's cheeks is unusual. At that age, most people experience significant facial volume loss. In her case, this is likely the result of fat transfer or dermal filler rather than implants. 'To maintain her smooth, glowing skin, it is also likely that Cher regularly undergoes skin rejuvenation treatments, including laser and light-based therapies every 6-8 weeks. "Considering that around 80% of visible skin ageing is caused by sun exposure, it's safe to assume Cher stays out of the sun entirely and wouldn't dream of leaving the house without a high SPF.' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Oprah Winfrey 23 23 Answer: 51 Oprah Winfrey is the epitome of graceful ageing, looking better today at 71 than she did in her younger years. Her glow, poise, and confidence are undeniable, and her appearance remains remarkably natural. While her weight has fluctuated over the decades, giving her face a fuller or more chiselled look at different times, her skin remains smooth, luminous, and impressively youthful. Dr Ross Perry explains: 'A key factor in Oprah's graceful ageing is her genetics. 'As often noted, Black skin typically ages more slowly than lighter skin tones, largely thanks to a higher concentration of melanin, which acts as a natural sunscreen. "Melanin offers enhanced protection against sun damage, one of the primary causes of premature ageing. "In addition, darker skin often has a thicker dermis and more densely packed collagen, which contributes to long-term firmness and resilience. 'As for cosmetic intervention? It's unclear whether Oprah has ever gone under the knife, and if she has, it's been done with such subtlety that it escapes obvious detection. "Her overall look is likely a mix of excellent skincare, clever makeup artistry, and naturally good skin. 'That said, it would be reasonable to suggest that Oprah may opt for small amounts of Botox, particularly around the eye area to prevent crow's feet, along with occasional laser or light-based facials to treat pigmentation, thread veins and to maintain an even skin texture.' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Liz Hurley 23 23 23 Answer: 40 years Decades after she turned heads in that iconic Versace dress, Liz Hurley looks as radiant and youthful as ever. At 60, she seems to have unlocked the secret to ageing gracefully, blending natural beauty with a touch of aesthetic enhancement. While genetics undoubtedly play a role - her mother has aged beautifully - it's clear that Liz works hard to maintain her slim, toned physique, which could easily rival someone in their late 20s. Her thick, glossy hair, always expertly styled, completes her polished yet effortlessly youthful appearance. Dr. Ross Perry explains: 'Certainly, genetics play a part in Liz's age-defying look. 'Her mother has aged beautifully and Liz has clearly inherited those attributes. But there's also no denying that she works hard to maintain her physique. "Her slim, toned frame, often a key marker of youth, combined with her signature thick, glossy hair, gives her an effortlessly youthful vibe. 'One of Liz's most recognisable features has become her plump lips, a shape that was far less prominent during her early days in the spotlight, such as when she dated Hugh Grant. "This suggests she may have had regular lip filler, but it's been beautifully balanced and proportionate, enhancing her natural beauty without overpowering her features. 'Speculation around a facelift is ongoing, and while nothing has been confirmed, if she has had one, it's been expertly executed. "In today's world, it's less about whether someone has had work and more about how well it's been done. And in Liz's case, the result is subtle, elegant, and natural. 'To maintain her youthful glow, Liz is likely to rely on a mix of non-surgical aesthetic treatments, such as Botox to soften fine lines, dermal fillers to restore volume and Profhilo to deeply hydrate and improve skin elasticity. "Microneedling and laser treatments could also play a role in improving skin texture and stimulating collagen. "Upper eyelid surgery is another possibility, as it's a straightforward yet effective procedure for lifting sagging lids, commonly affected by age.' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Jennifer Lopez 23 23 23 Answer: 36 years Jennifer Lopez continues to amaze the world with her youthful glow and toned physique, looking at least 15 years younger than her actual age. At 56, JLo is the perfect example of how hard work, commitment, and a touch of clever beauty tricks can defy the ageing process. While her natural beauty and genetics play a role, her dedication to self-care ensures she remains as radiant as ever. Dr Ross Perry explains: 'First and foremost, JLo has been blessed with natural beauty and great genes. An inexpensive yet effective moisturiser, particularly for tackling fine lines under the eyes. Dr. Ross Perry 'Her olive skin tone also gives her a natural advantage when it comes to ageing. "Olive skin contains more melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, which provides a natural layer of protection against sun damage, a major contributor to premature ageing. 'But genetics can only go so far. Jennifer is famously committed to self-care. "She reportedly eats a clean, unprocessed diet full of oily fish, leafy greens, and hydration-boosting foods. "She avoids caffeine and alcohol, two known accelerators of ageing, and likely benefits from a private chef who crafts meals rich in vitamins and antioxidants. 'Her workout regime is also a key part of her youthful glow. She exercises vigorously to maintain a toned physique and promote overall wellness. "Given her skin type, it's likely JLo is careful about sun exposure, opting to get her daily dose of Vitamin D without overexposing her skin to UV rays, another major factor in skin ageing. 'Despite her natural appearance, it is likely JLo has had some subtle tweakments over the years. "These could include a small amount of Botox around the eyes, frown lines, and forehead, always with a light touch. "Some soft filler in the cheeks, where we tend to lose volume with age, could also be part of the equation. 'Other non-invasive treatments she may use include Profhilo, an injectable that deeply hydrates the skin and laser therapy to treat pigmentation and improve texture. 'Her daily skincare routine is likely meticulous. It may include a gentle cleanser, a Vitamin C serum in the morning, retinol at night, and a high-quality SPF every single day. "She's also been quoted as using olive oil on her skin, rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which is a natural way to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier. 'Interestingly, she's also rumoured to use Aquaphor, an inexpensive yet effective moisturiser, particularly for tackling fine lines under the eyes.' Estimated cost of potential treatments: Botox: £400 every 4 months Filler: £400+ Profhilo: £475 per treatment TOTAL COST OVER 36 YEARS: £91,800 Top 3 beauty products every woman should be using Hayley Walker, Beauty Expert at Justmylook shared the holy-grail products every woman needs to be using. A cleanser, SPF, and hair oil are must-haves within beauty routines. A cleanser is crucial for healthy skin as it removes dirt, oil, and other impurities for flawless skin. This skincare step not only cleanses the face and removes dirt, but also prevents breakouts and premature skin ageing, helping you maintain a healthy, youthful, and blemish-free complexion. The Aveeno Face Calm+ Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser is a go-to of mine due to its gentle formula that soothes and restores the skin's appearance and texture. SPF is non-negotiable and should be in everyone's daily skincare routine. Even on cooler, cloudier days, our skin is exposed to the sun's UV rays which can be harmful to unprotected skin and even lead to damage. These damages include sunburn, pigmentation changes, and wrinkles which can impact the skin's texture and appearance. In some cases, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer. Applying SPF daily prevents these damages and protects the skin from harmful rays. I recommend the Beauty Of Joseon Rice & Prebiotic Sunscreen PA++++ SPF50+ for its lightweight, non-clumping texture that absorbs quickly for a natural finish and maximum protection. Hair oil has many benefits and should be regularly used. This treatment can strengthen and protect the hair from external stressors while improving its appearance and shine. Regularly applying hair oil can also reduce breakage and even encourage hair growth for longer, fuller locks. Hair oils also target the scalp, reducing dandruff and improving its health through exfoliation. I recommend using this deeply nourishing treatment a couple of times a week or more depending on the hair's moisture levels. The Hair Syrup Rapunzel Pre-Wash Oil Treatment is a nutrient-rich treatment that revitalises strands to promote a happy scalp and healthy-looking locks. Apply the syrup throughout damp hair before washing; massage from root to tip and allow the formula to penetrate strands before rinsing and styling.
Daily Mail
30-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Sam Faiers is branded 'irresponsible and naive' by 'horrified' skin doctor after admitting her three children don't wear sunscreen as she wrongly claims many SPF brands are 'harmful' in controversial statement
A leading skin doctor has slammed Sam Faiers on Wednesday after she admitted she doesn't put sunscreen on her children in a controversial opinion on SPF. Currently on holiday in Mallorca, the mother-of-three took to Instagram on Tuesday as she responded to a fans question asking what suntan lotion brand she uses. The former TOWIE star revealed none of her family use sunscreen as she wrongly claimed some brands of SPF are 'harmful' and full of 'toxic ingredients'. Now skin cancer prevention doctor Ross Perry has told Daily Mail he is 'absolutely horrified' by Sam's comments and called her 'naive and irresponsible'. Dr Perry, who is the owner of skin clinics chain Cosmedics, claimed the reality star is 'misleading' fans into not using sunscreen on their children and it can 'double the risk of getting skin cancer' as they 'do not build up a tolerance to sun exposure'. He told Daily Mail: 'I am absolutely horrified at Sam Faiers' comments to followers (2.5 million of them!) are both irresponsible and naive. 'Children do not build up a tolerance to sun exposure, they are just storing up more sun damage for later on in life.' He continued: 'It is a well-known fact that children if they get any degree of sunburn as a child it more than doubles their risk of getting skin cancer at a later date so that is completely false and misleading. 'Children do NOT build up a tolerance to sun exposure. I would totally advocate the use of sun protective clothing as a alternative for those who do not tolerate suncream being regularly applied, especially for children regularly in and out of the water, but they will only cover certain areas so an SPF is still required. 'It is misleading to say that children need to have sunlight in order to promote their health as they will absorb more than enough sunlight through day-to-day activities rather as an over exposure or potential sunburn on holidays. 'The standards that still apply and are good guidance are that people apply SPF when out in particularly hot sun environments and do not take the risk of getting any sunburn and that involves wearing hats, appropriate clothing and avoiding hot times of the day for sunbathing.' 'Remember that ANY tan or sunburn is creating damage to the skin so SPF should always be worn in the sun,' he concluded. Sam revealed that she doesn't use suncream on her children by sharing a snap of her youngest son Edward, two, playing in the shade. She wrote: 'So this is always a bit of a controversial one, but honestly, me and my whole family don't actually wear sunscreen. 'Over the years, the kids have built up a really good tolerance to being in the sun. Of course if it's really hot and the sun feels too harsh I'll make sure we head into the shade... usually around lunchtime we'll go in, have something to eat and just avoid those peak hours. 'I'm really careful about sunscreen in general, because a lot of them are actually pretty harmful and full of toxic ingredients.' Sam then revealed the alternative way she makes sure her children stay safe in the sun as she added: 'If you do want to protect your kids, I think SPF swimwear is such a good and safer option. 'But also, don't be afraid of the sun! Early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it's not as strong, I love letting the kids run around and soak it up, it's good for them. 'That said, I do always bring a Tallow Zinc SPF with me when I go away, just in case. And hats or caps are a must! Especially for us ladies because no one wants extra sun damage (I've had my fair share over the years because I am such a sun lover!).' Sam isn't the first celebrity to admit they don't use SPF on their children after Kelsey Parker, TV personality and widow of The Wanted singer Tom Parkewr, previously claimed that her children 'don't burn' and wrongly alleged SPF 'causes skin cancer'. Speaking on her podcast with fellow mum Georgia Jones she said: 'My kids do not wear sun cream.' Instead, she uses 'organic' sun cream to protect her children and claimed they 'do not burn'. 'Sun cream is so bad', she said, adding that growing up she 'never used to wear sun cream, sun cream causes skin cancer'. 'The only thing that I may put on them is an organic sun cream. My kids, we went on holiday, I never put sun cream on them and they do not burn.' Lauryn Goodman also spoke out about sun cream last year after she took to Instagram to tell her followers: 'you're brought up to wear sun cream [to] protect yourself', but 'everything you think you know isn't correct'. She insisted: 'training your skin is key' as she added: 'It's about building up your melanin to handle the sun as well slowly. 'I did it with K [her eldest son] and will do it with little girlie.' Responding to a comment from a follower who advised that UV rash vests offer 'more protection' than cream, she also said 'skin is so much better in the sun'. Dr Bav Shergill a consultant dermatologist at the Queen Victoria Hospital, London and spokesman for the British Association of Dermatologists hit back at her claims. He previously told the Daily Mail: 'Sunscreens are a safe and effective way to protect your skin from burning and other forms of sun damage. 'Millions of people have used sunscreen over many decades so we can be confident about their safety profile. 'For people with lighter skin tones, there is a common misconception that you can build up a base tan which will protect you. 'A tan is a reaction to sun damage, so to develop a base tan, you have to damage your skin. Responding to a comment from a follower who advised that UV rash vests offer 'more protection' than cream, she also said 'skin is so much better in the sun' 'Evidence also suggests that a "base tan" offers the equivalent of SPF 4 – not enough to provide meaningful protection.' He added: 'If you don't want to use sunscreen, you need to be really on top of other forms of sun protection. 'Make good use of shade, minimise the time you spend out in the sun when the UV index is three or above, and wear clothing that covers your skin. 'These tend to be very effective ways of protecting your skin – though ideally you would use sunscreen in addition to these options as a final line of defence.' Meanwhile Dr Richard Parsons, a senior lecturer in biochemical toxicology at Kings College London, warned that any sunburn still raises the cancer and long term damage risk. He told the Daily Mail last year: 'Building a base tan is fine. But you have still got to have that level of protection. 'If you burn you are still going to increase your chances of getting those DNA mutations which can increase your risk of cancer. 'As you get older, you can get lost elasticity in the skin you can get skin damage like wrinkles. So that's actually lasting damage.' He added: 'We're not talking "I've got a real bad sunburn, but it's ok it'll be gone in a few weeks". That will have lasting implications.'
Daily Mirror
01-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
‘I have a crippling health issue that's only fixed by Botox'
When Suzi Brown from Manchester started experiencing excruciating pain around puberty she knew something wasn't right, but never expected to suffer for decades later Headaches can be debilitating, whether they are linked to allergies, hormones, caffeine or hypertension. Perhaps the hardest to cope with are migraines, which cause mild to severe pain, typically affecting one side of the head. They can also impact your vision and make you feel incredibly sick. Doctor Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics skin clinics ( says, 'Migraines area unique kind of headache, often characterised by pain on one side of the head, nausea, and visual disturbances such as flashing lights or temporary tunnel vision. You may also experience an aura,a sensation indicating that a migraine is about to occur. 'The exact cause of migraines is unknown, but they're thought to be triggered by spasms of blood vessels in the brain or neck area. Factors like stress, alcohol and dehydration can exacerbate them, but sometimes they can happen for no apparent reason.' Doctor Perry explains that preventive treatments are the main approach to managing migraines, with medications available to help prevent their onset. Migraines may start when young girls get their first period, but they can begin at any time. They can persist throughout the reproductive years and into menopause. Doctor Ross adds, 'Sadly, there's not much you can do as it's often down to genetics. However, certain measures can help manage the onset and severity, such as staying hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids.' Drinking water and engaging in regular exercise can also help alleviate migraines triggered by hormones. It's recommended to manage stress levels through breathing exercises or yoga.' As June marks Migraine & Headache Awareness Month, we spoke to web developer Suzi Brown, 46, from Manchester, who suffered for years before finding the perfect and unexpected cure. 'I started suffering from migraines around puberty. I remember telling my mum my head felt really heavy when I was about nine years old. For me, they feel like a vice is crushing my head, and I feel sick and dizzy at the same time. I get brain fog and memory loss, both during and after. 'The worst thing is not being able to plan – they happen without warning. I missed a festival last year because I had to leave early. Alcohol makes them worse, too. I've even had to miss family holidays abroad. 'I missed tons of work before I was self-employed, and people made comments that I was lying because it's not a disability that can be seen – although you can see when I have one, as my face and eyes are really puffy. 'It's much easier now I'm self-employed. In fact, it's one of the reasons I work for myself. If I do have to take time off, I can make up the hours, and I'm in control of my workload. 'If I catch migraines early, they can last a few hours. I take meds during the night if I feel one coming, and they're usually gone by morning. If I don't, they can last a few days or even a week. 'To manage them, I now get Botox which takes away about 80% of the migraines. I don't know how it works, but I'm thankful it does. I get some Botox on the NHS, so although it's meant to be every three to six months, it's nearer to every year due to waiting lists. So I top this up privately when I can. "The doctor has added the sides of the head and, last time, the forehead. The latter hasn't worked,but it did wonders for my wrinkles!'
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Sunbeds are this year's most dangerous wellness trend, but can they ever have benefits?
A high street staple in the 90s and noughties, tanning shops have waned in popularity in recent years, thanks to rising awareness around their widely-reported ability to raise your risk of skin cancer. But according to recent stats from Melanoma Focus, the artificial tanning devices appear to be increasing in popularity with Gen Z, with 43% of 18 to 25-year-olds admitting to using sunbeds in a survey. One possible explanation for their resurgence? A TikTok trend that's seen the UV light-loaded beds rebranded as a 'healthy' part of everyday wellness routines, with some tanning shops using the platform to market dubious claims about their benefits. Some videos on the platform state that using sun beds regularly can increase your intake of vitamin D, support immunity, help you to regulate a healthy sleep wake cycle and naturally increase mood-boosting endorphins. But is there any truth to these statements? We asked a dermatologist to weigh in on the matter, explaining if sunbeds can ever spell good news for your health. Given that sunlight helps our bodies manufacture the majority of our vitamin D, it sounds plausible to suggest that tanning beds, which mimic the suns rays, could give us a mood-boosting dose of the sunshine vitamin. However, this theory appears to be largely a myth. A 2019 overview of the claims, published by the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, concluded that while the UV light from sun beds can temporarily increase vitamin D levels in the blood, this boost is typically short-lived. The researchers say that the reason is because there's a marked difference between the UV you soak up on holiday and the rays you get from a tanning bed. Sunlight emits UVB radiation, a type of invisible ray that interacts with a protein called 7-DHC in the skin, converting it into vitamin D3. Sunbeds, meanwhile, contain concentrated UVA radiation, which does not effectively trigger vitamin D synthesis. "Getting enough vitamin D from tanning beds just isn't possible," stresses Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics Skin Clinics. "Tanning beds use bulbs that emit mostly UVA light, while your body needs UVB light to produce vitamin D. "To safely get enough vitamin D, simple exposure of 15 mins to arms and legs during the warmer months and a diet naturally rich in Vitamin D is all that is needed," he adds. The NHS also recommend everyone should consider taking a daily supplement vitamin D during the autumn and winter months. If you're someone who tosses and turns until the early hours, the idea that a short session on a sunbed could 'reset' your body clock sounds appealing. Some TikTok videos claim that controlled UV exposure from sunbeds can help regulate melatonin levels, which are crucial for sleep-wake cycles. But while one 2015 study found that participants with SAD tended to naturally increase the frequency of their indoor tanning during the winter, there's currently no scientific evidence to suggest that sun beds can regulate melatonin production in a similar way to natural daylight. "Despite claims that sunbeds might offer a 'safer' tanning method, they do not provide a safer alternative to natural sun exposure," says Dr Unnati Desai, national lead of GP Services at Nuffield Health. "In fact, the high intensity of UVA radiation makes them more dangerous than traditional sun exposure. "Safe vitamin D synthesis occurs from normal daytime sunlight exposure, and vitamin D supplements or fortified foods are a safer option when necessary." Ultimately, science tells us that there is no safe way to use sunbeds. Studies have found that the device's high intensity UV radiation can damage the DNA in your skin cells, leading to premature ageing and skin cancer, including melanoma, which is the most serious type of skin cancer. Scientists reckon even one sunbed session can increase your risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer by 67% and basal cell skin cancer by 29%. People who start using sunbeds before the age of 35 also have a 75% increased risk of malignant melanoma. "To be clear, there is no safe sunbeds use, and a deep tan is never 'healthy'," says Dr Sasha Dhoat, consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics. "Melanoma rates, the most dangerous and potentially fatal type of skin cancer are on the rise in the UK and it is thought around 100 deaths per year are linked with sunbed use." If you like having a golden glow during the warmer months, cosmetic dermatologist Laura Geige says that applying a fake tan is a far safer way to achieve a bronzed look. "I find the rise in sunbed use deeply concerning, especially under the guise of 'wellness'," she notes."We know that sunbeds are a direct carcinogen, classified by the World Health Organisation at the same risk level as tobacco and asbestos. So the idea that they offer meaningful benefits is not only misleading but also a dangerous distortion of science. "In reality, I believe sunbeds offer accelerated skin aging, DNA mutations, and a significantly heightened risk of melanoma. Even a few sessions can cause irreversible genetic damage to skin cells." Read more about tanning: 'I've battled skin cancer for 15 years after using sunbeds as a teenager' (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read) I loved suntanning, until I got skin cancer (Yahoo Life UK, 8-min read) Should sun beds be banned? Doing so could prevent deadliest form of skin cancer (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read)
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Sunbeds are this year's most dangerous wellness trend, but can they ever have benefits?
A high street staple in the 90s and noughties, tanning shops have waned in popularity in recent years, thanks to rising awareness around their widely-reported ability to raise your risk of skin cancer. But according to recent stats from Melanoma Focus, the artificial tanning devices appear to be increasing in popularity with Gen Z, with 43% of 18 to 25-year-olds admitting to using sunbeds in a survey. One possible explanation for their resurgence? A TikTok trend that's seen the UV light-loaded beds rebranded as a 'healthy' part of everyday wellness routines, with some tanning shops using the platform to market dubious claims about their benefits. Some videos on the platform state that using sun beds regularly can increase your intake of vitamin D, support immunity, help you to regulate a healthy sleep wake cycle and naturally increase mood-boosting endorphins. But is there any truth to these statements? We asked a dermatologist to weigh in on the matter, explaining if sunbeds can ever spell good news for your health. Given that sunlight helps our bodies manufacture the majority of our vitamin D, it sounds plausible to suggest that tanning beds, which mimic the suns rays, could give us a mood-boosting dose of the sunshine vitamin. However, this theory appears to be largely a myth. A 2019 overview of the claims, published by the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, concluded that while the UV light from sun beds can temporarily increase vitamin D levels in the blood, this boost is typically short-lived. The researchers say that the reason is because there's a marked difference between the UV you soak up on holiday and the rays you get from a tanning bed. Sunlight emits UVB radiation, a type of invisible ray that interacts with a protein called 7-DHC in the skin, converting it into vitamin D3. Sunbeds, meanwhile, contain concentrated UVA radiation, which does not effectively trigger vitamin D synthesis. "Getting enough vitamin D from tanning beds just isn't possible," stresses Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics Skin Clinics. "Tanning beds use bulbs that emit mostly UVA light, while your body needs UVB light to produce vitamin D. "To safely get enough vitamin D, simple exposure of 15 mins to arms and legs during the warmer months and a diet naturally rich in Vitamin D is all that is needed," he adds. The NHS also recommend everyone should consider taking a daily supplement vitamin D during the autumn and winter months. If you're someone who tosses and turns until the early hours, the idea that a short session on a sunbed could 'reset' your body clock sounds appealing. Some TikTok videos claim that controlled UV exposure from sunbeds can help regulate melatonin levels, which are crucial for sleep-wake cycles. But while one 2015 study found that participants with SAD tended to naturally increase the frequency of their indoor tanning during the winter, there's currently no scientific evidence to suggest that sun beds can regulate melatonin production in a similar way to natural daylight. "Despite claims that sunbeds might offer a 'safer' tanning method, they do not provide a safer alternative to natural sun exposure," says Dr Unnati Desai, national lead of GP Services at Nuffield Health. "In fact, the high intensity of UVA radiation makes them more dangerous than traditional sun exposure. "Safe vitamin D synthesis occurs from normal daytime sunlight exposure, and vitamin D supplements or fortified foods are a safer option when necessary." Ultimately, science tells us that there is no safe way to use sunbeds. Studies have found that the device's high intensity UV radiation can damage the DNA in your skin cells, leading to premature ageing and skin cancer, including melanoma, which is the most serious type of skin cancer. Scientists reckon even one sunbed session can increase your risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer by 67% and basal cell skin cancer by 29%. People who start using sunbeds before the age of 35 also have a 75% increased risk of malignant melanoma. "To be clear, there is no safe sunbeds use, and a deep tan is never 'healthy'," says Dr Sasha Dhoat, consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics. "Melanoma rates, the most dangerous and potentially fatal type of skin cancer are on the rise in the UK and it is thought around 100 deaths per year are linked with sunbed use." If you like having a golden glow during the warmer months, cosmetic dermatologist Laura Geige says that applying a fake tan is a far safer way to achieve a bronzed look. "I find the rise in sunbed use deeply concerning, especially under the guise of 'wellness'," she notes."We know that sunbeds are a direct carcinogen, classified by the World Health Organisation at the same risk level as tobacco and asbestos. So the idea that they offer meaningful benefits is not only misleading but also a dangerous distortion of science. "In reality, I believe sunbeds offer accelerated skin aging, DNA mutations, and a significantly heightened risk of melanoma. Even a few sessions can cause irreversible genetic damage to skin cells." Read more about tanning: 'I've battled skin cancer for 15 years after using sunbeds as a teenager' (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read) I loved suntanning, until I got skin cancer (Yahoo Life UK, 8-min read) Should sun beds be banned? Doing so could prevent deadliest form of skin cancer (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read)
