People are desperate for tans and seeking illegal solariums

Source: News.com.au, May 2016

JUST how far would you go for a tan?

Some who lust after sun-kissed skin are doing anything they can to get it, and are running or seeking underground solariums, illegally set up in backyards and homes.

While UV sunbeds are still legal to purchase, commercial solariums have been against the law since January last year in Victoria, NSW, Queensland, ACT, South Australia and Tasmania.

Western Australia only banned solariums in January this year.

Solariums are not banned in the Northern Territory but the operation is very rare in the state.

While people are searching for commercial solariums across the country, it’s a major concern in Victoria, with many turning to Gumtree out of desperation for a solarium tan.

Posts on the classifieds site beg for solarium use two to three times a week, with some even offering to travel far distances.

A desperate tan seeker posted on Gumtree: “After having worked in a solarium prior to the ban I visited a private salon which has recently closed much to my dismay!!”

“So I am turning on here to find sessions. Looking for a bed to use every second day. If anyone knows of any or can be of help PLEASE get in touch asap.”

There have been about 30 posts on the site from people seeking tanning beds in the Melbourne area in the last month.