Growing concerns regarding the dangers of indoor tanning beds may soon invite possible new restrictions along with new taxes in order to curb the practice which is popular amongst youth. The new tax of 10% on indoor tanning sessions is also expected to help balance the costs of health care reform and will go into effect from 1st July. On an average, 35 % of 17- year old girls use tanning machines says an FDA report. According to the International Agency for Research on Skin Cancer, it is found that Tanning machines increases the risk of Skin Cancer by 75% in people of age group below 30. In a list shared by the agency last July , it was found that Ultraviolet radiation emitting beds as “Carcinogenic to humans” Leading to highest category of cancer risk.

The Food and Drug Administration advisory panel recommended on Thursday to reclassify the tanning lamps into categories of Class 1medical devices to a CLASS II or CLASS III devices. Medical devices such as tongue depressors and elastic bandages require parental consent before using tanning beds among teens.

The FDA announced last week that they were also considering tighter restrictions on indoor tanning apart from imposing taxes too.

However, avid tanners like Barbara Jacobs said that the new FDA guidelines or the new tan tax wont stop her. Jacobs said , ” It’s very relaxing after working 8 hours and coming in here to relax .It calms my nerves and is an excellent stress buster” .

The Indoor Tanning Association said its members advocate tanning in moderation. Ronda D’Angelo, the owner of Electric Tan in Harrisburg reacted strongly against the new tan tax . She said , ” This will cost our community as the additional tax will burden the existing weak economy”.