FDA Pulls Back on Stricter Rules for Tanning Beds and Sunlamps
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FDA has decided to stop moving forward with a 2015 plan that would have put stricter rules on selling and using sunlamp products like tanning beds. This means businesses and users won’t face new restrictions or extra costs from this rule. The withdrawal is official as of March 16, 2026, so things stay as they are for now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Existing 2014 Sunlamp Rules Still Apply
Sunlamp products were reclassified to class II in a June 2, 2014 order that became effective September 2, 2014, making them subject to 510(k) premarket notification and special controls. Those special controls include performance testing, labeling requirements, and a warning that sunlamp products should not be used on persons under age 18.
Proposed Sunlamp Restrictions Withdrawn
The FDA withdrew its December 22, 2015 proposed rule on restricting sale, distribution, and use of sunlamp products. As of March 16, 2026, businesses and users will not face the new restrictions or extra costs that would have come from that proposed rule, so current practices remain in place for now.
Performance Standard Amendments Unaffected
FDA said its proposed amendments to the sunlamp products and UV lamps performance standard at 21 CFR 1040.20 are not affected by this withdrawal. That means the separate proposed technical and labeling updates at 21 CFR 1040.20 remain a separate action.
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