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For millions of people, acne is not only a cosmetic problem; it also causes emotional stress, low self-esteem, and continual frustration. From teenage breakouts to adult acne, patients frequently feel as though they have tried it all—from costly skincare products to strict dermatologist-prescribed routines—with conflicting results. But have you ever considered whether there is an unconventional answer you could have overlooked?
Usually connected with a bronzed glow, sunbeds have lately gained attention for their possible help in treating acne. Perhaps the solution you have been waiting for is under controlled UV exposure.
The Science Behind Sunbeds and Acne
Acne usually starts with hair follicles clogged with dead skin cells and oil (sebum), which results in acne. Mild whiteheads to painful cystic acne brought on by inflammation and bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) can all fall within the kind and degree of acne. Typical conventional treatments call for strong chemical exfoliants, antibiotics, or topical lotions. Still, some studies have found that UV light might help fight acne.
Particularly UVB, UV light has been proven to:
- Help to lower sebum overproduction.
- Kill P. acnes, among other acne-causing bacteria.
- Lower the redness and irritation brought on by acne lesions.
Sunbeds provide regulated UVB and UVA light doses, emulating the natural UV spectrum. Advocates say controlled sunbed sessions would create a less acne-friendly environment on the skin, reducing breakouts. Although this does not mean they are a “miracle cure,” in mild to moderate cases, the focused application of UV therapies has shown potential.
Benefits of Using Sunbeds for Acne Treatment
Here are some potential benefits of including sunbed treatment into your acne control routine if you’re bored with your skincare drawer full of half-used products:
- Reduces Skin Bacteria UV radiation's main advantage is its capacity to kill P. acnes bacteria. This helps prevent acne from spreading further across your skin and gives already-outbreak areas a chance to recover free from fresh inflammations.
- Minimises Redness and Inflammation Acne-prone skin commonly shows red or swollenness from inflammation. Reduced redness from controlled UV exposure will help your skin seem calmer and more evenly toned.
- Temporary Sebum Regulation One well-documented aggravation of acne is too much oil production. Though typically only a transient effect, UV rays can momentarily control sebum generation. Those with oily or mixed skin may find this helps clear blocked pores.
- Improved Skin Tone UV radiation exposure can boost melanin production, the pigment in your skin that determines its colour. This produces a somewhat tanned impression that might temporarily hide pigmented lesions or acne scars.
- Controlled Environment Sunbeds provide a controlled atmosphere where UV exposure is measured and particular to your skin type, unlike sitting under pure sunshine outside. This lowers the possibility of overindulgence, which might cause skin harm.
How to Use Sunbeds Safely for Acne Treatment
Sunbeds provide advantages, but responsible use of them is absolutely important. Unmonitored or too much use can cause side effects, including early ageing, skin dehydration, or even a higher chance of skin cancer. Consider these rules to include sunbed therapy for acne treatment safely:
- Consult A Dermatologist: Before starting any new treatment, consult a dermatologist to ascertain whether UV treatment suits your skin type and degree of acne.
- Limit Session Frequency: Most professionals advise beginning with 5–10 minute sessions, no more than 2–3 times weekly. Sunbed overuse raises the risk of UV overexposure and long-term skin problems, including conditions like melasma — a form of hyperpigmentation that can be triggered or worsened by UV exposure.
- Choose the Right Sunbed: Some contemporary sunbeds provide alternative UV levels or even plasma light choices. Search for salons or centres with current tools for better results under safety.
- Protect Sensitive Areas: Always wear appropriate goggles to protect especially sensitive areas, like your eyes. Sunscreen can also be used on non-acne-prone regions to reduce unneeded UV radiation.
- Monitor Progress: Record how your skin reacts to every session. Should redness, dryness, or irritation aggravate, stop therapy and see a professional.
Visit a dermatologist for personalised advice or get a free consultation from our specialists today!
Expert Opinions on Sunbeds and Acne
What advice do skincare experts and dermatologists have on sunbeds as a possible acne treatment? Although the skin care industry is still somewhat divided, here are some balanced viewpoints:
Dr. Eyal Levit says, Dermatologist:
"UV treatment's bacterium-fighting qualities can help temporarily." For severe forms of acne, it should not, however, replace medically supervised therapy. Use of sunbeds carries risks that should be known before beginning."
Dr. Ram Silfen, Plastic Surgeon:
"After a few sunbed sessions, customers with mild acne have seen improvement, but they combined it with proper skincare practices, including moisturising formulations and SPF. UV light is no justification for skipping your everyday skincare!"
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Sometimes, those who have personally gone through it have the best perspectives. Here are actual stories of people who have transformed sunbed sessions into acne-fighting treatments:
“I had hardly any luck trying practically every over-the-counter product. After one month of brief weekly sessions, my acne started to clear. Though I wouldn’t say it’s a cure, it has surely helped where topical creams failed.” – Rachel, 24
“Being a chef, the heat in kitchens continually aggravated my acne. A buddy advised sunbeds, and even though I was worried about the risks, I mixed them with a nice moisturiser and SPF. Not looking this fantastic in years, my skin!” – James, 31
Want to get free advice from our professional team? Click here!
How to Use Sunbeds Safely for Acne Treatment
As unconventional as they sound, sunbeds could help with acne responsibly and with good skincare. They are not a one-size-fits-all solution, and balancing the possible advantages against the associated risks is important.
Sunbeds could be worth considering for people with acne, particularly those annoyed with traditional treatments, as part of a more general skincare routine. Start with small, monitored steps and consult a reputable dermatologist for guidance. Clearer, better skin is only achievable by wise decisions.
Fill out this form for expert advice on whether sunbed therapy suits your acne type.
Disclaimer: Sunbed treatment is not a guaranteed cure for acne or is fit for everyone. Always prioritise your skin’s long-term health and consult an expert before beginning any treatment.
Manal T. Barakat, et al. (2016). Significant reduction of inflammation and sebaceous gland size in acne vulgaris lesions after intense pulsed light treatment
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dth.12418
WebMD (2023). Do I Need Phototherapy for Acne?
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/phototherapy-for-acne
Dr. Sophie Shotter (2024). Can sunbeds really help to heal your acne?
https://drsophieshotter.com/can-sunbeds-really-help-to-heal-your-acne/
PubMed (2021). The significant health threat from sunbed use as a self treatment in patients with acne.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34407228/
Top Doctors UK (n.d.). Acne and sunbed use: what’s the connection?
https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/acne-and-sunbed-use-what-s-the-connection
Lumivisage (n.d.). Does UV Light Help Acne? Expert Advice on Safer Solutions.
Current Version
• March 23, 2025
Written By: Oliver Redfern
Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Eyal Levit
• April 20, 2023
Written By: Oliver Redfern